Ann Peebles - I Can't Stand The Rain

Originally released in 1974 on the Memphis-based Hi Records label, I Can't Stand The Rain plays to Ann Peebles' great strength, her poised and sultry voice, and surrounded by the sparse, easy funkiness of the trademark Hi rhythm section and producer Willie Mitchell's perfect use of horns and strings, she sings like a resilient but disappointed angel on this impressive set of songs about the darker side of love. It's classic southern soul with sweet Memphis sound. Ann Peebles' voice aches and swoons across these songs backed by a band featuring Howard Grimes on drums, Jack Hale on trombone, Charles Hodges on keyboards, and more!

Highlights from the album: the eccentric but brilliant "I Can't Stand the Rain", along with a marvellous version of Joe Simon's "(You Keep Me) Hangin' On" and perfect readings of a pair of Earl Randle songs, "If We Can't Trust Each Other" and "I'm Gonna Tear Your Playhouse Down."

She can be both tough and tender, sometimes in the same song but whether heartbroken or joyous, righteously vengeful or disillusioned, Peebles always has a strength, a personal fire that makes each song glow from deep inside.

Heavyweight vinyl produced by Fat Possum Records in 2014. Includes download card.