Good Feeling

Personnel: Paul Carrack (vocals); Steve Beighton (saxophone); Jack Carrack (drums).
Audio Mixer: Rupert Cobb.
Audio Remasterer: Graham Bonnett.
Editor: Rupert Cobb.
Photographers: Justin Compton; Andrea Hunnisett.
After singing standards with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra on 2010's A Different Hat, Paul Carrack returns to his wheelhouse on Good Feeling, a bright, bouncing collection of blue-eyed soul. Perhaps the production is just a shade too clean -- it not only has a bright gloss but not a note is out of place, everybody is in the pocket -- but there's also a genuine warmth to Carrack's music, derived not just from his honeyed voice but from the precision of his seasoned backing band. It's a well-manicured groove but it's cheerful and appealing, and Carrack has a good set of songs, highlighted by the Chris Difford co-write "Marmalade Moon," but also featuring adept stabs at Motown ("Good Feelin' About It," "Time to Move On "), '70s smooth soul ("I Don't Wanna Lose Your Love"), and a deft tribute to Ray Charles ("I Can Hear Ray"). It is the work of an old pro, one who is comfortable in his skin and happy to play exactly what he loves, and that's what makes Good Feeling appealing. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine