Ray’s version of “Hey Good Lookin” closes the album out in much the same way as it began, in high jump-boogie style. His version of Hank’s signature tune is joyous, and ends this magnificent set of music in fine style.
Modern Sounds In Country And Western Music was such an enormous hit that ABC Records immediately requested a follow-up. Volume Two was released just six months after the original, and it proved to be a big hit as well. While not as groundbreaking as it’s predecessor, Volume Two does have it’s moments.
Ray again chose twelve songs to record, but this time he took a bit of a different tactic. Side one of the original album consisted of six upbeat tracks, recorded with The Ray Charles Big Band and The Raelettes. The six songs that made up side two feature strings and choirs, in the “Countrypolitan” style of the era.
Ray’s version of Hank Williams’ “You’re Cheatin’ Heart” alone makes Volume Two worthwhile. Fortunately for everyone though, Concord Music have included both volumes on one CD, so you won’t have to choose.
The booklet is pretty cool too, featuring reprints of the original liner notes, plus a new essay by Bill Dahl discussing the impact the records have had over the years. Ray really outdid himself with these two records, and that's saying something.
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