The Korgis - Unplugged (2023)

In the summer of 2005, the Korgis were busily preparing their DVD Kollection for release, and to that end the band decided to play an acoustic-based "concert" in the studio, filming it for inclusion on the DVD. With Unplugged, that performance now is made available on CD. The "unplugged" format was indeed excellent and appropriate, as some of the Korgis' earliest numbers were actually composed on acoustic guitars. As time passed, many more of the duo's richly melodic structures would lend themselves perfectly to an unplugged setting, as this album beautifully illustrates. The Korgis drew numbers from all four of their albums, and included, of course, all three of their British hits -- "If I Had You," "If It's Alright with You Baby," and their Top Ten smash, "Everybody's Got to Learn Sometime." Inevitably, longtime fans will experience these songs tinged with memories of their original time and place, shading them with understandable nostalgia. However, by simply unplugging their guitars and creating sumptuous new arrangements, the Korgis breathe new life into these golden numbers. And it's amazing how fresh they all now sound, as the duo and a guesting John Baker astutely bring out each song's inherent magic, highlighting its mood, melody, and lyrical strength. So, although it may look like a best-of package, Unplugged takes the Korgis to brand new heights. A must for all fans.

Review by Jo-Ann Greene