Charles, Ray
Genius + Soul = Jazz
Rare & Collectible Vinyl Records

2021 US 180gm gatefold reissue. Glossy, NM- vinyl. A bold, brass-soaked masterpiece, Genius + Soul = Jazz finds Ray Charles stepping into the Impulse! era with swagger, sophistication, and unmistakable soul. Released in 1961, the album pairs Ray’s gritty Hammond B-3 organ with two powerhouse big bands drawn from the Count Basie Orchestra, arranged by Quincy Jones and Ralph Burns. The result is a dazzling collision of jazz swing and R&B fire.

From the explosive opener “From the Heart” to the blues-driven “One Mint Julep” (a Top 10 hit), every track radiates Ray’s command of groove and melody. His organ playing is raw and joyful, riding atop arrangements packed with punchy horns, walking bass, and classic swing energy.