AMG Review of Love Songs [MCA/Chess]

Stephen Thomas Erlewine
All Music Guide

Drawn almost entirely from her Argo/Chess recordings of the '60s (although there are some cuts from the early '70s), Love Songs is a fine selection of romantic music from one of the greatest blues singers of her generation. There are hits here, highlighted by "At Last," but mood overrules chart position, so these 14 songs wind up setting a seductive atmosphere and maintaining it from beginning to end. It's not essential for collectors, although some songs aren't all that easy to come by elsewhere. Instead, it's an album for casual fans, those who like James' style, especially when it's presented in a romantic setting. For these listeners, it's very worthwhile.