2008: 15 of the Best. #13...

#13 - Irma Thomas - Be You

From: Simply Grand
Label: Rounder
Released: August 12, 2008
Buy it: Here.

OK, so I find the absense of Allen Toussaint on this album a little suspect, but I do like the idea of paring down the sound behind one of New Orleans' all-time greatest female voices and pretty much relegating it to vocals and piano. Ellis Marsalis, Randy Newman and Norah Jones are among the ivory-ticklers that take a seat alongside Irma on the album, but it's this cut -- featuring Dr. John pounding the keys -- that provides the album's best moment and one of the best simple soul songs in years. The song was co-authored by the good doctor and Doc Pomus (lyricist behind the likes of "Lonely Avenue," "Viva Las Vegas" and "Little Sister"). This song's lyrics come like a wonderful gift from Pomus beyond the grave, while Dr. John lays down a fine performance and Irma, as always, just comes off as ridiculously talented and classy in her delivery. Also makes me wonder why no one has every promised to be my granulated sugar. After listening to this song, I determined it's one of the nicest compliments you can pay someone. So there's your New Year's resolution, folks -- promise to start calling dear ones your granulated sugar.