Ben Sidran's "Free In America" is a captivating blend of vocal jazz and AOR, released on April 23, 1976, under Legacy Recordings. This concise yet dynamic album spans just 34 minutes, offering a swift but satisfying journey through Sidran's unique musical landscape.
The album kicks off with "Feel Your Groove," setting a lively tone that carries through tracks like "After Midnight" and "Sunday Kind Of Love." Sidran's smooth vocals and clever lyrics shine, particularly in "Let's Make A Deal" and "Beg For It (The Real Thing)." The album also showcases his versatility with a cover of Billy Joel's "New York State Of Mind" and a playful take on the classic "You Talk Too Much."
Sidran's jazz roots are evident in tracks like "The Cuban Connection," while "Free In America" serves as a fitting finale, encapsulating the album's themes of liberty and self-expression. Throughout, Sidran's piano playing and songwriting skills are on full display, making "Free In America" a standout in his discography and a delight for fans of vocal jazz and AOR.