Naked Songs (1973)

About this title: Naked Songs represents the other end of Al Kooper's early career from I Stand Alone. Where that first album was recorded very gradually at the outset of his solo career, soon after exiting Blood, Sweat & Tears, Naked Songs was a much more cohesive work (cut in New York and Georgia) from the end of his stay at Columbia Records. Ironically, it was a contractually obligated album, but never one to throw away an opportunity, Kooper embraced soul, gospel, blues, pop, and even country music in the course of filling its two sides. Playing his usual array of instruments, including loud, note-bending ... read more

Tracks:

1. (Be Yourself) Be Real [Kooper]
2. As the Years Go Passing By [Malone]
3. Jolie [Kooper]
4. Blind Baby [Kooper]
5. Been and Gone [Peacock]
6. Sam Stone [Prine]
7. Peacock Lady [Kooper]
8. Touch the Hem of His Garment [Cooke]
9. Where Were You When I Needed You [Kooper/Levine]
10. Unrequited [Kooper]

Note: This is a general synopsis. Each listing is further described below.