I Can’t Stand the Rain

Classic Memphis deep soul from singer/songwriter Ann Peebles. This was her fourth album and delivers ten tracks of simmering Southern soul, characteristic of the best of Willie Mitchell’s influential Hi label: lots of Rhodes and Wurlitzer keys and gently whirring Hammond organs, big brass riffs, uncomplicated drums and a layer of honeyed strings. Although she’s a powerful singer, Peebles is less of an out-and-out soul screamer, often singing with a restraint that is every bit as stirring as any gospel-shouter. Slow burning, soothing soul music.