Published on Feb 21, 2008
Shelby Lynne — good. Dusty
Just A Little Lovin’ is a tribute album to Dusty Springfield by Shelby Lynne. This may seem like an odd combination. Dusty
This disc is a sparse collection; Shelby Lynne is backed on each song by drums, bass and either a piano or drums, an approach to Dusty Springfield’s music that saves the album. Shelby Lynne is smart enough to use Dusty Springfield as a jumping off point for her own interpretations of some classic songs.
“Just A Little Lovin’” and “Anyone Who Had A Heart” set the tone for what is to follow. The focus in on the vocals and the subdued instrumental background help give these classic pop songs a lite jazz feel.
“You Don’t Have To Say You Love Me,” one of
Other highlights include “I Only Want To Be With You,” which is given a different cadence and vocal emphasis from the original. “The Look Of Love” is the closest Lynne comes to a classic
The only two non-Springfield songs feel out of place and just do not measure up. The only self-penned song,“Pretend,” is ordinary. The Young Rascals cover of “How Can I Be Sure” is a poor choice as it has been covered hundreds of times and Lynne adds nothing new.
The Live DVD contains only two songs and both are
All in all, Just A Little Lovin’ is a sedate and interesting album. The CD shows Shelby Lynne’s soft side and interpretive ability. The major problem is a sameness in the presentations which is all the more apparent when viewed against the two live performances on the DVD. Still, it is a good way to spend an hour. “