Isaac Hayes

The SACD version is good but not great. I haven't played it in a while though. It is hard to find, a vinyl copy might be easier.

Another great one has passed on. He has great work in his discography as mentioned, Hot Buttered Soul, Black Moses, Live at the Sahara Tahoe. But in my opinion, his genius (that's right genius), can be found in the primarily instrumental "Shaft" soundtrack that includes the Oscar winning "Theme from Shaft". If you don't own it, now is a good time to make that purchase. The music is timeless and sounds just as fresh, cool, and sophisiticated as it did back in 1971. Mr. Hayes composed the score for the movie and it became an instant classic. If you listen to it, it is intricate, creative and inspiring music. No movie soundtrack in the "R&B" "Soul" genre can touch it and few in the history of movie soundtracks. Rest in peace Mr. Hayes, there are none like you out there.

Isaac's first was Presenting Isaac Hayes, 1967 and it was excellent. Hot Buttered Soul (1969) would have to be considered his peak, but he actually maintained a very high level of excellence through at least 8 LP's . . . a massive achievement that even many of the biggest stars of the last half-century cannot claim.

Terry Gross did a very good interview with Mr. Hayes back in the '90's that was repeated yesterday and should be available for a week or so at the NPR/Fresh Air site. It really captures his spirit and soul very well.

As with many Stax luminaries, he grew up in grinding poverty and overcame a ton of obstacles to achieve career success . . . he will be greatly missed.

dc

Yeah, I listened to the NPR/Fresh Air interview yesterday. Very well done, especially with his explanation of how his wardrobe evolved, including his reasons for shaving his hair.

Acoustic Sounds put out a 45 RPM 3 song record with 3 cuts from Shaft including the theme song. Sounds real good - recommended if its still in stock!