The Very Best of Otis Redding, Vol. 2 (1995) For his absolute best, try Vol. 1, but The Very Best of Otis Redding, Vol. 2 is still Otis: powerful, gospel-style soul-shouting over the elegant… Otis Redding Reissues
EW's GRADE
B+

Details Release Date: Apr 25, 1995; Lead Performance: Otis Redding; Genre: Reissues

For his absolute best, try Vol. 1, but The Very Best of Otis Redding, Vol. 2 is still Otis: powerful, gospel-style soul-shouting over the elegant backing of his house band, Booker T. & the MG's (!). Despite the B sides and repetitive ballads, purchase-justifying gems include the house-rocking ''Knock on Wood,'' and the mind-blowing (if preposterous) ''Day Tripper.'' B+

Originally posted May 19, 1995 Published in issue #275 May 19, 1995 Order article reprints