Dave
In Orbit
Rare & Collectible Vinyl Records

1966 US Mono original. Nice VG+ copy. "In Orbit With Dave "Baby" Cortez (1966) is the third and final long-player that the organist cut for Roulette Records in the mid-'60s and contains more original material than the previous two combined. Whereas both Organ Shindig (1965) and Tweety Pie (1965) consisted primarily of cover versions, less than a quarter of In Orbit With Dave "Baby" Cortez offers up familiar tunes. The opening "Count Down, Part I" establishes the jazzy mood with a rare vocal (albeit spoken) introduction, presumably from Cortez himself. There are also prominent background singers, providing a Raeletts' kind of call-and-response against the laid-back setting. This contrasts the pop combo that had formerly accompanied Cortez. Instead of the copious (and at times heavy handed) Hammond B-3 leads, the brass section and understated electric guitar adopt much of the melodic structure. That said, Cortez ably supplies comp lines and riffs, which are particularly tasty on the swinging "Do Any Dance" and stomping backbeat propelled rave-up "Sticks and Stones." "Count Down," "Belly Rub" and "My Sweet Baby" are presented as two-part songs, an all too common practice most likely instigated in order for the writers to obtain future royalties. Especially since Morris Levy -- the infamously unscrupulous head of Roulette Records -- is credited as co-composer. The Gershwin standard "Summertime" is worthy of mention as it draws upon Billy Stewart's hit arrangement and includes one of Cortez' more promising solos. Modern listeners interested in hearing In Orbit With Dave "Baby" Cortez can find it along with Tweety Pie and Organ Shindigon the appropriately titled 3 on 1: Organ Shindig/Tweety Pie/In Orbit (1995) -- which is highly recommended as a quick way for enthusiasts to obtain these out of print albums." All Music Guide - Lindsay Planer.