George Benson's "Good King Bad," released on January 1, 1976, under BMG Special Products, is a captivating blend of smooth jazz, yacht rock, jazz funk, and soul jazz that showcases Benson's exceptional guitar skills and soulful vocals. This album is a testament to Benson's versatility and innovation, offering a diverse range of tracks that highlight his ability to seamlessly blend genres.
The album opens with the enchanting "Theme from Good King Bad," setting the tone for the rest of the collection. "One Rock Don't Make No Boulder" and "Em" are standout tracks that showcase Benson's virtuosic guitar playing and his knack for creating infectious melodies. "Cast Your Fate to the Wind," a cover of the well-known jazz standard, is rendered with a fresh, funky twist that is uniquely Benson.
"Siberian Workout" and "Shell of a Man" delve into more introspective territory, with Benson's soulful vocals taking center stage. The album concludes with "Hold On I'm Coming," a lively and upbeat track that leaves the listener with a sense of joy and satisfaction.
With a runtime of 42 minutes, "Good King Bad" is a concise yet impactful album that offers a rich listening experience. Whether you're a long-time fan of George Benson or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to impress with its blend of skillful instrumentation, soulful vocals, and innovative genre-blending.
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