Me and Mrs. Jones: The Best of Billy Paul (CD - 1999)

Recording information: Sigma Sound Studios, Philadelphia, PA.

Too easily dismissed as little more than a one-hit wonder, Billy Paul was, in fact, one of the most gifted and affecting talents to grace the Philadelphia International stable -- the recipient of some of the Gamble & Huff team's most lush and sophisticated productions. His deeply soulful voice bridged the gap between jazz and soul, textured in equal measure by street-smart swagger and touching vulnerability. Me and Mrs. Jones: The Best of Billy Paul goes far beyond the classic title track in restoring the singer to prominence, showcasing his versatility via superb covers of pop favorites, including Bob Dylan's "Don't Think Twice, It's All Right," Elton John's "Your Song," and Paul McCartney's "Let 'Em In." With the inclusion of R&B chart hits like "Thanks for Saving My Life" and "Billy's Back Home," it all adds up to a definitive portrait of Paul in his prime. ~ Jason Ankeny minimize