Best of Leon Russell - Ten Best Series by Leon Russell (CD, Apr-2001, EMI-Capitol Special Markets)

The unique vocal qualities of Leon Russell made him one of my favorites back in the day. I think that he and Janis Joplin are in the same category when it come to voice quality. Not exactly melodious, but able to touch your musical soul in a deep and personal way. The boy from Oklahoma certainly has a way with words, too. While able to write some good sing along songs (such as Delta Lady) he also has written some haunting lyrics. Listening to This Masquerade, you can feel his life's loneliness. And what artist from that day and age didn't attempt an anthem song. Stranger In A Strange Land fits the bill there. I still sing along with my freak flag flying today! I wouldn't say Leon is an aquired taste. But he certainly puts to shame the commercialized music so popular today. The man has soul in his voice, his words and his music. My only disappointment in this CD is they stuck to the 10 original songs. Its a pity to waste that extra space and not include of few other Leon gems.