Corrine Bailey Ray : 'I'll Do It All Again'
Released: 26th January 2010
Label: EMI Records
Before I write this review for Corrine Bailey Ray's new single "I'll Do It All Again" I must admit something. I found "Put Your Records On" painfully cringeworthy and completely unlistenable. Every time it came on the radio I would throw myself towards it in a mad scramble to change it, as if the radio station were somehow transmitting angry wasps through my speakers. Therefore recieving this I was prepared to hate it and type a furious and sweary rant that would make me feel better if no-one else. What I wasn't prepared for was to fall absolutely and entirely in love with it.
This is a subtle, soulful and utterly heartbreaking ballad about submitting to love despite the fact that you know that one day it has the potential to hurt you like nothing has before. If you take in to account the context of Corrine Bailey Rae losing her husband before this was recorded it achieves an added poignancy. What really captivates in this song is Corrine Bailey Rae's astounding voice. It has a richness and depth which demands you to stop what you're doing and give it your full attention. It's powerful but also with a definite edge of vunerability which prevents it from ever becoming overblown and hammy. She showcases her immense talent withing the very first lines: "Oh you’re searching for something I know/ Won't make you happy". Never before has the word "happy" felt so sad, Bailey Rae's voice an almost stifled sob that pricks the conscience of even the most stonehearted. The whole opening section with it's arpeggiaic guitar is very reminiscent of famous tear-prompter "Over the Rainbow" before drums, bass and organ ease it into the the most blissful of soul grooves. It gradually works it's way to a heart-beat skipping climax repeating the eponymous "I'll Do It All Again" before winding all the way back down again and leaving you bewildered, wistful and deeply moved.
If I come across as gushing or sentimental during this review it's entirely intended; it's an appropriate response to an incredible song of raw, exposed emotion. If you're reaction is any different I wouldn't want to shower in your house, let alone meet "mother".
Words: Harvey Ovenden
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