Review: Charlie Ray & Linda Washington

Charlie Ray & Linda Washington - Plain As Dirt (Independent)
Charlie Ray and Linda Washington are a country / Americana duo based in Victorville, California. Here’s a little background info to whet the appetite: Charlie Ray is a singer-songwriter-guitarist and long-time radio presenter. Linda Washington is a schoolteacher and mother, and just happens to possess one of those country voices that can stop you in your tracks.

Though primarily a duo, they perform in various line-ups and configurations. “Plain As Dirt” is a full band recording, the production is warm and inviting, and the musicians leave plenty of space for the songs and voices. I’ve always been a sucker for songs with “Memphis” in the title, so they make the perfect start with “Last Night in Memphis”, written by Ray, its tale of a musician going home is made special with some delicate harmonies from the two singers. “Silver Moon” is another Ray original, but this time it’s Washington’s chance to shine alone as she sings a fine lead, while some ‘50s country guitar and a tinkling keyboard provides backing. Their version of George Jones’ “He Stopped Loving Her Today” builds beautifully, and though it doesn’t quite match the original, their performance is faultless, and they bring something fresh and vital to the arrangement.
http://www.charlie-raymusic.com/
Rob F.