Anyone who has seen his intelligent outings in cabaret knows that nostalgia plays a big part in Henry Dee’s musical life. Past shows have paid tribute to Johnnie Ray, Dinah Washington and the historic Brill Building. His keen sense of pop music history is reflected in spades on this debut album, You On My Mind (which was actually recorded in the Brill Building). The album is an eclectic mix of well-chosen songs spawned in the ‘60s and ‘70s folk-rock period. Some are orphan songs; some are what he calls “sleeper classics” in his liner notes. This CD gives them another life.

Dee is a singer with a supple baritone that comes from the heart. While the band is a bit too loud occasionally, the songs are well served and the CD is filled with resurrected gems, like “Baby, I Need Your Lovin,’” a one-time hit made famous by The Four Tops in the ‘60s and later born again with Johnny Rivers. John Phillips’ forgotten “Safe in My Garden” was released by The Mamas and the Papas as a single. Noting the frailness of life post-9/11, Dee felt it relevant today. It is a highlight.

As an expressive vocalist, Henry Dee is always understated and refined in his gentle delivery. While the influence is obvious, he never attempts to emulate the original. Rather, he personalizes each tune with his own stamp which is the key to the success of these nuggets on this unique disc.

A particular standout is Cat Stevens’ “The First Cut Is the Deepest” released in 1967, then recorded by Rod Stewart in 1977 and Sheryl Crow in 2003. However, Linda Ronstadt’s live performance was his inspiration. And, inspiration plays a big part in this compelling CD that also features “My First Night Alone Without You,” John Sebastian’s “Darling Be Home Soon” and Jefferson Airplane’s “Today.” All oldies—given a bright new life by a connoisseur of musical gems who touches the heart.

John Hoglund
Cabaret Scenes
June 2009
www.cabaretscenes.org