His Greatest Hits by Ray Charles (CD, Sep-1992, 2 Discs, Sandstone Music)

Ray Charles is one of the original Rock and Roll pioneers. By mixing elements of gospel with rhythm and blues and soul, particularly in the 1950s, his music expanded the musical landscape and was a driving force for Atlantic records. It is the omission of this musical period which knocks this 2 CD set down a notch. Containing all ABC Paramount songs (except What'd I Say), it provides a comprehensive repertoire of his 1960 - 1972 period (where he focussed on Country and Western styles), but totally misses the Atlantic period (1950s) which showed his greatness.

Steve Hoffman's mixes (DCC fame) are fine and the detail is quite good on these DCC sponsored silver discs.

A good set to cover the ABC stuff, but now I need to find a comprehensive Atlantic set to complete his catalogue.