Soul
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Bill Withers 
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Exact matches: 18
1
Columbia, 1978. Near Mint- ... Just Sold Out!
One of Wither's most underrated sets, a nice effort from the latter part of his Columbia career. The set has the sort of modern soul polish throughout that separates these CBS sides from his earlier grittier work for Sussex, and though the sound has a little more commercial and mainstream appeal than some of the funkier folksier early albums, it's aged a lot better than we might have predicted upon its release. Overall the vibe is a lot like the excellent Menagerie album which immediately preceded this, with some nice jazzy touches, and even though it didn't produce a big hit like "Lovely Day", it does features some arrangements by Wade Marcus that contribute to the warm, polished production. Titles include "Love Is", "All Because Of You", "You Got The Stuff", "Don't It Make It Better", and "Look To Each Other For Love". LP, Vinyl record album
(White label promo. Includes the printed inner sleeve. Cover has a promo stamp.)
2
Bill Withers —
Best Of Bill Withers (Columbia) ... LP Columbia, Early 70s/
The mellow soul of Bill Withers is always a treat – and although this best of collection was released on Columbia, it mostly features tracks from Bill's stellar early days at Sussex, when he was turning out some of the most quietly revolutionary soul of the decade! Nearly every cut's a winner – and the set features classics like "Lovely Day", "Who Is He & What Is He To You", "Harlem", "Ain't No Sunshine", "Use Me", "Grandma's Hands", "Lean On Me", "Tender Things", and "I Want To Spend The Night". LP, Vinyl record album
3
Bill Withers —
Bill Withers Live At Carnegie Hall ... CD 
Columbia/
A brilliant double live album by Bill Withers – different than his studio work, and every bit as essential! The album's similar to Curtis Mayfield's double live album around the same time – in that it's got Bill in front of a very enthusiastic crowd, playing in a stripped down way that creates a wonderfully intimate feel – even more so than his studio albums, with a deeply acoustic vibe! Some of the tracks here are even more soulful than their more famous versions – and Bill opens up warmly in front of the Carnegie crowd with a hip small combo behind him. Titles include "For My Friend", "World Keeps Going Around", " "Grandma's Hands", "Use Me", "Harlem/
4
Bill Withers —
Bill Withers Live At Carnegie Hall ... CD Columbia/
A brilliant double live album by Bill Withers – different than his studio work, and every bit as essential! The album's similar to Curtis Mayfield's double live album around the same time – in that it's got Bill in front of a very enthusiastic crowd, playing in a stripped down way that creates a wonderfully intimate feel – even more so than his studio albums, with a deeply acoustic vibe! Some of the tracks here are even more soulful than their more famous versions – and Bill opens up warmly in front of the Carnegie crowd with a hip small combo behind him. Titles include "For My Friend", "World Keeps Going Around", " "Grandma's Hands", "Use Me", "Harlem/
5
Bill Withers —
Bill Withers Live At Carnegie Hall ... CD Columbia/
A brilliant double live album by Bill Withers – different than his studio work, and every bit as essential! The album's similar to Curtis Mayfield's double live album around the same time – in that it's got Bill in front of a very enthusiastic crowd, playing in a stripped down way that creates a wonderfully intimate feel – even more so than his studio albums, with a deeply acoustic vibe! Some of the tracks here are even more soulful than their more famous versions – and Bill opens up warmly in front of the Carnegie crowd with a hip small combo behind him. Titles include "For My Friend", "World Keeps Going Around", " "Grandma's Hands", "Use Me", "Harlem/
6
Bill Withers —
Bill Withers' Greatest Hits ... CD Columbia, Mid 70s/
Completely wonderful music from the great Bill Withers – a set that's overflowing with 70s soul classics, all delivered in that wonderful vocal style that made Bill one of the most unique singers of his time – mixed with the acoustic touches of his early years, and the well-produced sound of his late 70s tracks! Although issued on Columbia, the set also features work from Withers' first few records on the Sussex label – a great blend of music that includes his key appearance on the cut "Just The Two Of Us" – plus "Lovely Day", "Soul Shadows", "Lean On Me", "I Want To Spend The Night", "Who Is He And What Is He To You", "Hello Like Before", "Grandma's Hands", "Ain't No Sunshine", and "Use Me". CD
7
Bill Withers —
Complete Sussex & Columbia Masters (9CD set) ... CD Columbia/
An amazing legacy in soul music – the legendary run of records that Bill Withers cut for the Sussex and Columbia labels – each of them a masterpiece in their own way! The early hit sound of Withers is the stuff that dreams are made of – a unique blend of acoustic instrumentation, raspy soul, and slinky rhythms – heard to best effect on the first four albums in the set – one of which is Bill's legendary live set at Carnegie Hall! Yet even past those classics, Withers is still amazing – and shifts his sound through the course of the 70s, to bring in warmer, jazzier elements too – yet all without ever losing his keen sense of song, and his completely mindblowing vocal approach. This box features newly remastered versions of 9 albums – Just As I Am, Still Bill, Live At Carnegie Hall, Justments, Making Music, Naked & Warm, Menagerie, Bout Love, and Watching You Watching Me – a legacy in soul music that few others could ever hope to top! CD
8
Sussex/
A beautiful album by Bill Withers – filled with incredibly well written songs, and an amazing instrumental technique that blended folksy elements with smoother 70s soul, in a sound that would put Bill at the top of the charts for many years, yet still give him cred with soul fans for decades! Booker T Jones arranged, produced, and played electric piano on the album – and we can say without a doubt that the record's one of the few good things to come out of his move to LA! Although the album's not a greatest hits one, given the strength of the tracks, it may as well be, as it includes Withers classics like "Grandma's Hands", "Ain't No Sunshine", "Harlem", and "Hope She'll Be Happier". Also features the nice groover, "Better Off Dead", which has a very tasty intro! CD
9
Bill Withers —
Just As I Am ... LP Sussex, 1971. Very Good+ ... Out Of Stock
A beautiful album by Bill Withers – filled with incredibly well written songs, and an amazing instrumental technique that blended folksy elements with smoother 70s soul, in a sound that would put Bill at the top of the charts for many years, yet still give him cred with soul fans for decades! Booker T Jones arranged, produced, and played electric piano on the album – and we can say without a doubt that the record's one of the few good things to come out of his move to LA! Although the album's not a greatest hits one, given the strength of the tracks, it may as well be, as it includes Withers classics like "Grandma's Hands", "Ain't No Sunshine", "Harlem", and "Hope She'll Be Happier". Also features the nice groover, "Better Off Dead", which has a very tasty intro! LP, Vinyl record album
Also available Just As I Am ... CD 13.99(Original pressing with Bell Sound. Cover has light wear and a small stain.)
10
Bill Withers —
Just As I Am (180 gram pressing) ... LP Sussex/
A beautiful album by Bill Withers – filled with incredibly well written songs, and an amazing instrumental technique that blended folksy elements with smoother 70s soul, in a sound that would put Bill at the top of the charts for many years, yet still give him cred with soul fans for decades! Booker T Jones arranged, produced, and played electric piano on the album – and we can say without a doubt that the record's one of the few good things to come out of his move to LA! Although the album's not a greatest hits one, given the strength of the tracks, it may as well be, as it includes Withers classics like "Grandma's Hands", "Ain't No Sunshine", "Harlem", and "Hope She'll Be Happier". Also features the nice groover, "Better Off Dead", which has a very tasty intro! LP, Vinyl record album
Also available Just As I Am ... CD 13.9911
Bill Withers —
Justments (Japanese paper sleeve edition) ... CD Sussex/
A massive 70s album from the great Bill Withers – one that's sometimes overlooked next to his huge crossover records that preceded it – but which is every bit as wonderful! Withers is still on Sussex Records, and still has that completely unique approach that made him a soul genre unto himself – a fantastic voice, a nicely acoustic core, and this sense of flow that's completely magnetic – augmented here with maybe a bit more funk than before, and some great use of keyboards too! The material has a conversational, wise and world weary tone that's brilliantly effective and more intimate than Bill's bigger hits of the day – and there's also some subtly innovative parts to the production that are really moving, from the harp accented piano on "Stories" and the funky percussion flavored rambler of a closing number "Railroad Man". Other tracks include "You", "The Same Love That Made Me Laugh", "Heartbreak Road", "Green Grass", "Ruby Lee", "Can We Pretend", "Liza", and "Make A Smile For Me". CD
(Out of print, includes obi.)
12
Bill Withers —
Lean On Me – Best Of Bill Withers ... CD Columbia, 1970s. Used ... Out Of Stock
The mellow soul of Bill Withers is always a treat – and although this best of collection is released on Columbia, it also features tracks from Bill's stellar early days at Sussex, when he was turning out some of the most quietly revolutionary soul of the decade! Bill's voice is one of the most instantly recognizable in soul music – with a sweet raspy quality that always gets us, and which is often mixed with breezy acoustic guitar playing, and warm Fender Rhodes keyboard work. Nearly every cut's a winner – and the set features classics like "Lovely Day", "Who Is He & What Is He To You", "Ain't No Sunshine", "Use Me", "Grandma's Hands", "Lean On Me", "Hello Like Before", "Just The Two Of Us", and "I Want To Spend The Night". CD
13
Bill Withers —
Making Music ... LP Columbia, 1975. Very Good+ ... Out Of Stock
Damn! Bill Withers can never do wrong in our book – and this album is definitely case in point! The set marks Bill's big move from Sussex Records to Columbia, and it's the start of an amazing run in the late 70s – completely sublime soul that wraps up all Withers' roots from the earlier part of the decade, and focuses them beautifully in some sweet keyboard-driven grooves! Bill's voice is marvelous – that raspily charming sound that no other soul singer could ever match – and the album features arrangements from Larry Nash, who plays keyboards on the date along with Dave Grusin. Electric piano makes for plenty of great moments – and titles include his classic "Hello Like Before", plus "The Best You Can", "Make Love To Your Mind", "Paint Your Pretty Picture", and "Don't You Want To Stay". LP, Vinyl record album
(Includes the printed inner sleeve and lyric insert. Cover has light wear and a few faded scribbles in marker.)
14
Bill Withers —
Menagerie ... LP Columbia, 1977. Very Good ... Out Of Stock
One of Bill Withers' greatest albums of the 70s – a set that has hip stepping off the acoustic sound of his Sussex records, into a warm and jazzy style that we like every bit as much as his earlier work! The album's got a wonderfully sophisticated jazzy vibe, and includes the excellent cut "Lovely Day" – a perfect midtempo track with some great electric keyboards behind Bill's raspy soulful voice, and a great hook on the chorus! Paul Riser handled a lot of the arrangements – and other titles include "Wintertime", "It Ain't Because Of Me Baby", "I Want To Spend The Night", and "Then You Smile At Me". LP, Vinyl record album
(Original pressing with Masterdisk stamp. Vinyl appears heated but play is not affected. Cover has minimal wear.)
15
Sussex/
... CD
(Still sealed, mark through barcode.)
16
Bill Withers —
Still Bill ... CD Columbia/
Bill Withers' second album – even more wonderful than the first! The record's a perfect summation of all that made Bill so great – warm raspy vocals, sweet soulful production, mature songwriting, and just the right use of acoustic guitar to accent all the best elements in the music! Withers was already great before this record, but Still Bill really pushed him over the top – and made sure that generations to come would never tire of his genius. The arrangements are wonderful – with just the right sort of punch to hammer things home – yet still very far from commercial, and able to let all the acoustic elements of Bill's roots shine through. The record includes the massive "Lean On Me" – but we love it even more for the funky "Use Me", the slinky "Kissing My Love", the righteous "Who Is He (And What Is He To You)", and the always-great "Lonely Town Lonely Street". Plus, CD features bonus live versions of "Let Me In Your Life" and "Lonely Town Lonely Street". CD
17
Bill Withers —
Still Bill ... LP Sussex, 1972. Very Good- Gatefold ... Out Of Stock
Bill Withers' second album – even more wonderful than the first! The record's a perfect summation of all that made Bill so great – warm raspy vocals, sweet soulful production, mature songwriting, and just the right use of acoustic guitar to accent all the best elements in the music! Withers was already great before this record, but Still Bill really pushed him over the top – and made sure that generations to come would never tire of his genius. The arrangements are wonderful – with just the right sort of punch to hammer things home – yet still very far from commercial, and able to let all the acoustic elements of Bill's roots shine through. The record includes the massive "Lean On Me" – but we love it even more for the funky "Use Me", the slinky "Kissing My Love", the righteous "Who Is He (And What Is He To You)", and the always-great "Lonely Town Lonely Street". LP, Vinyl record album
(Original pressing with Sterling/Arp stamp in the split front cover – with some edge and surface wear.)
18
Bill Withers —
Watching You Watching Me ... LP Columbia, 1985. Near Mint- ... Out Of Stock
A sweet little 80s session from Bill Withers – a lot less acoustic than his soul of the 70s, but in a way that works surprisingly well! As always with Bill, the vocals are the main thing, and the passage of time has done nothing to take off his edge – that warmly raspy quality that's instantly recognizable, and which comes through with all of its original charm – even amidst the smoother, more electric approach of the album's backings. There's a number of tracks on here that hit a mellow, midtempo groove that works quite well – and Bill did most of the production himself, with help from collaborators who include Ralph MacDonald, Michel Colombier, and Denny Diante. Titles include "Watching You Watching Me", "Oh Yeah", "Something That Turns You On", "You Try To Find A Love", "We Could Be Sweet Lovers", and "Heart In Your Life". LP, Vinyl record album
Possible matches: 28
19
Bobby Boyd —
Bobby Boyd (1976) (180 gram pressing) ... LP Athens Of The North (UK), 1976. New Copy ... Out Of Stock
The rare second album from Bobby Boyd – a set that's even more soulful than his first, and which is filled with funky gems! Boyd's vocals are wonderful – tight, but with an earnest quality that almost pushes him more towards a Bill Withers vibe than some of the other funky singers of the time – a great change next to the tight combo instrumentation of the record. Tunes are almost all upbeat and funky – and the mixture of Boyd's warmth with the sharp grooves really makes for a rich sound overall – a record that should have, could have been huge – were it issued at the time – but which is finally seeing the light of day now! Titles include "Ain't What You Know", "Why Are You Cryin", "Good Woman", "Girl I Can Feel Ya", "On This Side Of Town", and "Let Bygones By Bygones" – plus the instrumental "The Happy Hooker", produced by Harvey Fuqua, and which seems to actually be the Nite Liters' song/
20
Clifford Coulter —
Better Part Of Me ... LP Columbia, 1980. Near Mint- ... Out Of Stock
A damn great little record from Clifford Coulter – a set that's much tighter and more soul-based than his earlier funk albums for Impulse Records – but which comes together beautifully, too – thanks to help from Bill Withers in the studio! Bill produced, and the record has this perfect sort of balance – never too slick or uptight, but really focused too – that great warm groove that Withers found with his own music at Columbia – but set up here as a perfect foil for Coulter's truly amazing voice! The singer's got a depth that comes through right away – on both the ballads and the groovers – and the record's one of those under-discovered gems that we've dug for years – proof that some really amazing soul music was coming out on major labels, between the hits. Withers plays lots of keyboards on the record – and titles "Another Day", "You And I Together", "Nothing In The World Is Free", "Don't Wanna See You Cry", "Magic Carpet Ride", "Maybe It's Better To Go", and "The Better Part Of Me". LP, Vinyl record album
21
Creative Source —
Creative Source ... LP Sussex, 1973. Near Mint- Gatefold ... Out Of Stock
The massive first album from Creative Source – a really unique group who really helped push the ensemble vocal mode forward in the 70s! The mixed male/
(In fantastic shape! Includes the Sussex inner sleeve.)
22
Creative Source —
Creative Source (with bonus track) ... CD Sussex/
The massive first album from Creative Source – a really unique group who really helped push the ensemble vocal mode forward in the 70s! The mixed male/
23
Creative Source —
Migration (with bonus tracks) ... CD Sussex/
A great follow-up to the group's first hit LP on Sussex – not nearly as successful chart-wise, but a great display of their unique approach to group soul. The band's a quintet at this point, and their vocals are arranged by Skip Scarborough with that sweet compressed style that he was forging at the time. As on the first album, the band do a great job with a Bill Withers tune – and lay out a very hip reading of "Harlem" with some nice conga backing. The album also features a great funky reading of the Carole King cut "Corazon", an extended take on Scarborough's "I Just Can't See Myself Without You", and the original groovers "Keep On Movin" and "Migration", which both have that fuzzy guitar Sussex sound! Includes two bonus cuts. CD
24
Richie Havens —
Alarm Clock ... LP Stormy Forest, 1971. Very Good ... Out Of Stock
A really seminal set from the legendary Richie Havens – one that perfectly illustrates his famous blend of folk, rock, and soul – on a set of tunes that have continued to inspire listeners for many years to come! The record's a great bridge between the 60s and 70s – showing some of the hipper modes of the east coast folk scene as it moved way past traditional styles in the latter half of the 60s – and prefacing some of the use of acoustic instrumentation that would later come in soul music – in the work of artists like Bill Withers. Tracks are mostly originals, and feature a wonderful blend of acoustic and electric guitar, piano, and plenty of rootsy percussion that really sends the whole thing home – and titles include "Here Comes The Sun", "Some Will Wait", "Patient Lady", "Missing Train", and "End Of The Seasons". LP, Vinyl record album
25
A&M, 1976. Very Good ... $3.99
Richie Havens is way past the folksy mode of his roots by this point – working in a set of smooth arrangements by William Smitty Smith and Booker T – a style that mixes electric touches with Havens' still-raspy vocals, an approach that's a bit like that used on some of Bill Withers Columbia Records, put possibly even a bit more mainstream here. The real issue almost seems to be the choice of songs – as the record features covers that occasionally seem a bit ill-placed, but which come off as nice oddities at the best moments – like Richie's versions of "Do It Again" and "Long Train Running". Other titles include "We Can't Hide It Anymore", "I Was Educated By Myself", "Daughter Of The Night", and "If Not For You". LP, Vinyl record album
(White label promo. Includes the printed inner sleeve. Cover has a promo sticker, cutout hole.)
26
T Neck, 1973. Very Good+ 2LP Gatefold ... $14.99
One of the hippest 70s albums by the Isley Brothers – a set that has them playing live with a stripped-down group, in a manner that's similar to other live albums of the time by Curtis Mayfield, Donny Hathaway, and Bill Withers. The format is great, and really gets to the core of the Isley's unique soul style – a blend of funk, soul, and rock that comes off perfect on tracks that include "Work to Do", "Pop That Thang", "It's Your Thing", "It's Too Late", "Love the One You're With", "Machine Gun", "Ohio", and "Lay Lady Lay". Very lively, and with a good raw feel! LP, Vinyl record album
(Original pressing with Bell Sound stamp. Cover has some ringwear, edge wear, bumped corners, and center splits in the bottom seams.)
27
Sussex, 1971. Near Mint- Gatefold ... $11.99 13.99
A strange little film with a western motif – starring Bill Cosby, Leif Erikson, and Yaphet Kotto! Fortunately, Quincy Jones was the musical supervisor – so the tracks are hip enough in the best parts – a bit rootsy at times, but with a 70s soul approach that keeps things real. The best cuts include the vocal number "Better Days" by Bill Withers – but even better are the instrumental numbers by JJ Johnson, including the oft-sampled groover "Pull, Jubal, Pull". (Soundtracks, Soul) LP, Vinyl record album
28
Margie Joseph —
Margie ... LP Atlantic, 1975. Very Good+ ... Out Of Stock
The third album in Margie Joseph's early 70s run for Atlantic Records – and like the rest, a batch of super-tight tunes arranged and produced by Arif Mardin – done with the same sense of sophisticated soul he was bringing to the work of Aretha Franklin at the time! Margie's nicely a bit more laidback than Aretha, though – not nearly as cliched at times, and capable of hanging onto her southern roots, even in a fuller setting. Many numbers feature backing vocals – by singers who include Donny Hathaway, Cissy Houston, and Tasha Thomas – but Joseph is right out front on all numbers, singing strongly in the lead, yet without any too-diva sort of tendencies! Titles include a nice version of Bill Withers' "The Same Love That Made Me Laugh", plus "Stay Still", "Just As Soon As The Feeling's Over", "Sign Of the Times", and "Promise Me Your Love". LP, Vinyl record album
(Cover has some ring and edge wear.)
29
Now Again, 1970s/
Some of the most unique soul music you'll ever hope to hear – recorded by a pair of artists who mostly worked in Buffalo, New York during the 70s – with a very odd style that's completely their own! We'd quickly place the duo of Jesse Key and Sylvester Cleary in territory that would include Shuggie Otis or Terry Callier – artists who are almost a genre to themselves, and who manage to make their message mean even more by standing apart from the pack! In this case, Key & Cleary work with very early use of a drum machine – often used at levels that are slower and gentler than the beat-heavy 80s – and given these lightly folksy guitar touches that underscore some of the more righteous currents in their music, and which make the more personal songs sound even better. Maybe imagine if Bill Withers teamed up with the very young Timmy Thomas – but recorded at home on an 8 track studio – and you'll get part of the picture of what's going on here. Titles include "There Are Troubles", "A Man", "Dog's Delight", "Turn Me On", "Storm Of 77", "Help Build Buffalo", "Salamanca", "What It Takes To Live", and "The Secret". LP, Vinyl record album
30
Esther Phillips —
Alone Again, Naturally ... CD Kudu/
One of the deepest soul sets from Esther Phillips' 70s years on Kudu Records – a set with some nicely gritty grooves and a surprisingly earthy feel at times – especially when compared to some of her other albums of the time! Backings are by James Brown's old reedman, Pee Wee Ellis – and although there's some of the usual Kudu electric funk in the mix, there's also some deeper soul elements too – a vibe that's often a bit laidback and open, almost more Atlantic Records at points – which is a mighty good fit for Esther's wonderful voice! As usual for Kudu, the players are an all-star lineup – one that includes Richard Tee on keyboards, George Benson on guitar, Maceo Parker on tenor, and Bernard Purdie and Billy Cobham on drums – and Don Sebesky's also on deck a bit, to sweeten a few tracks up with light strings. The album's got a great version of Bill Withers' "Use Me" that features a tasty break in the intro – and other titles include a great version of "Alone Again (Naturally)", plus the cuts "Let's Move & Groove", "Cherry Red", "Let Me In Your Life", and "You & Me Together". CD
31
Esther Phillips —
Alone Again, Naturally ... LP Kudu, 1972. Very Good+ ... Temporarily Out Of Stock
One of the deepest soul sets from Esther Phillips' 70s years on Kudu Records – a set with some nicely gritty grooves and a surprisingly earthy feel at times – especially when compared to some of her other albums of the time! Backings are by James Brown's old reedman, Pee Wee Ellis – and although there's some of the usual Kudu electric funk in the mix, there's also some deeper soul elements too – a vibe that's often a bit laidback and open, almost more Atlantic Records at points – which is a mighty good fit for Esther's wonderful voice! As usual for Kudu, the players are an all-star lineup – one that includes Richard Tee on keyboards, George Benson on guitar, Maceo Parker on tenor, and Bernard Purdie and Billy Cobham on drums – and Don Sebesky's also on deck a bit, to sweeten a few tracks up with light strings. The album's got a great version of Bill Withers' "Use Me" that features a tasty break in the intro – and other titles include a great version of "Alone Again (Naturally)", plus the cuts "Let's Move & Groove", "Cherry Red", "Let Me In Your Life", and "You & Me Together". LP, Vinyl record album
(Original pressing with Van Gelder stamp. Cover has a touch of edge wear.)
32
CBS/
A fantastic bit of female funk from the 70s – and a set that was recorded in Germany by a very exotic singer! The album is Asha Puthli's first – and includes some unusual interpretations of work by JJ Cale, John Lennon, Bill Withers, and George Harrison – plus a great tune of her own – set to these cool backings that have lots of spacey electric modes blended with smoother funk passages – kind of a precursor to later Munich disco modes, but with a slower, slinkier feel. Asha's voice is very weird – a bit in the "love to love you baby" mode, and with a range of sounds that moves up and down the scale almost as much as Minnie Riperton. The record's got a nice mix of jazzy arrangements, and Asha's unique high-pitched vocals work great on tracks like "Lies", "Right Down Here", "I Dig Love", "Truth", "I Am A Song", "Let Me In Your Life", and "This Is Your Life". CD
33
Asha Puthli —
Asha Puthli ... LP CBS/
A fantastic bit of female funk from the 70s – and a set that was recorded in Germany by a very exotic singer! The album is Asha Puthli's first – and includes some unusual interpretations of work by JJ Cale, John Lennon, Bill Withers, and George Harrison – plus a great tune of her own – set to these cool backings that have lots of spacey electric modes blended with smoother funk passages – kind of a precursor to later Munich disco modes, but with a slower, slinkier feel. Asha's voice is very weird – a bit in the "love to love you baby" mode, and with a range of sounds that moves up and down the scale almost as much as Minnie Riperton. The record's got a nice mix of jazzy arrangements, and Asha's unique high-pitched vocals work great on tracks like "Lies", "Right Down Here", "I Dig Love", "Truth", "I Am A Song", "Let Me In Your Life", and "This Is Your Life". LP, Vinyl record album
Also available Asha Puthli ... CD 11.99(2020 UK Record Store Day Release.)
34
LMI, 1972. Near Mint- ... $6.99 9.99
An obscure one from Della Reese – and a set with a nice touch of soul, too! The album was produced by Della herself, with arrangements by Peter Myers – and titles include "Fire & Rain", "Funny", "Bein Green", "If Loving You Is Wrong", and versions of the Bill Withers tunes "Let Me In Your Life" and "Who Is She & What Is She To You". (Vocalists, Soul) LP, Vinyl record album
(Cover has minimal wear.)
35
Gil Scott-Heron —
Reflections ... LP Arista, 1981. Very Good+ ... Out Of Stock
A great little album that's often overshadowed by its hit – the 15 minute "B-Movie", which was sort of an overly-wrought protest piece about how the election of Ronald Reagan in 1980 was going to turn America into a bad b-movie. Not that that track's bad – although its politics have certainly dated by now – but the real strength of the album are the jazzy numbers, written in Gil's beautiful righteous style forged in the soul jazz underground of the 70s. These include the stellar "Is That Jazz?", a contemplative track about the future of the art form, a mellow version of Bill Withers' "Grandma's Hands", the moody "Storm Music", and "Gun", a good groover with a message about the right to bear arms. LP, Vinyl record album
(Cover has light wear.)
36
Legend/
A really unusual set from the Twin Cities scene in the 70s – an obscure album from singer Ernie Story – who comes across with a lot of blue-eyed soul in his vocals, and works in this blend of dark-tinged acoustic elements and funk – maybe somewhere in the territory of more famous work by artists like Bill Withers or Rodriguez! At times, Story's music definitely has the moodier currents of the latter – an element that maybe kept him from getting wider circulation – but his vocals are fantastic, and there's this nice use of drumbeats that really punctuate the music with this slow-stepping vibe that really works with the vocals. Other instrumentation is nice and spare – which furthers the vibe of the record – and titles include "Tribute To Lady Jane", "Disco City", "Chain Gang", "Sinners Lament", "Lost Without You", and "Dreamers Holiday". (Rock, Soul) LP, Vinyl record album
(Cool Japanese pressing – with obi!)
37
Ernie Story —
Meditation Blue (Japanese paper sleeve edition) ... CD Legend/
A really unusual set from the Twin Cities scene in the 70s – an obscure album from singer Ernie Story – who comes across with a lot of blue-eyed soul in his vocals, and works in this blend of dark-tinged acoustic elements and funk – maybe somewhere in the territory of more famous work by artists like Bill Withers or Rodriguez! At times, Story's music definitely has the moodier currents of the latter – an element that maybe kept him from getting wider circulation – but his vocals are fantastic, and there's this nice use of drumbeats that really punctuate the music with this slow-stepping vibe that really works with the vocals. Other instrumentation is nice and spare – which furthers the vibe of the record – and titles include "Tribute To Lady Jane", "Disco City", "Chain Gang", "Sinners Lament", "Lost Without You", and "Dreamers Holiday". (Rock, Soul) CD
Also available Meditation Blue ... LP 18.9938
Elektra, Late 70s/
Great work from the second chapter of Grover Washington's career – his post-Kudu run over at Elektra Records! The work here's a bit tighter than the Kudu sides, but still pretty great overall – thanks to that key Washington approach to a solo – a sense of space and soul that few other players could match! Most of the tracks were done with Ralph MacDonald at the production helm – in a similar blend of jazz and soul to his own work – and the tracks here are an excellent example of how a late 70s evolution in jazz funk created a keen sense of economy in the decade's best players! Titles include Grover's classic duet with Bill Withers, "Just The Two Of Us" – plus "Jammin", "Little Black Samba", "Let It Flow", "Jet Stream", "The Best Is Yet To Come", "East River Drive", "Can You Dig It", and "In The Name Of Love". (Jazz, Soul) CD
(Out of print.)
39
Grover Washington Jr —
Winelight ... CD Elektra (Japan), 1980. Used ... Out Of Stock
A smooth smooth classic from Grover Washington Jr – a set that has a classy image on the cover, and a classic groove within – a completely sublime blend of jazz, soul, and funk, all given the sort of masterful finish that you might have found on the best records by The Crusaders at the time! The difference, though, is that Washington's the lead soloist throughout – crafting some especially nice lines on his trademark soprano sax – which he used in ways that made him one of the most important mainstream jazz artists of his time – and one of the few to really open the doors of the music to folks who might not have been listening otherwise. Grover's sense of space and timing is wonderful throughout – and titles include the classic debut with Bill Withers on "Just The Two Of Us" –plus "Winelight", "Let It Flow", "In The Name Of Love", "Take Me There", and "Make Me A Memory (Sad Samba)". (Jazz, Soul) CD
40
Various —
Babies Makin' Babies – Compiled By ?uestlove ... CD Urban Theory (UK), 1970s. Used ... Out Of Stock
An amazing collection of 70s soul tracks – sweet, mellow, laidback, and including loads of numbers that have been buried for years! The focus here is not on obscure groups, but on lesser-known album tracks by bigger names – including many chillout numbers that have a sweet jazzy feel, and which might have gotten eclipsed by some of the artists' bigger hits. ?uestlove of the Roots put the set together, and the whole set's got the deep soulfulness of his own work with that group – track after track of mellow 70s soul, jazzy riffs, spacey instrumentation, and warm vocals effortlessly sliding together! Titles include "Star Of The Story" by Heatwave, "Be My Girl" by Michael Henderson, "Clover" by Earth Wind & Fire, "Before The Dawn" by Patrice Rushen, "Can We Pretend" by Bill Withers, "That's What Friends Are For" by Deniece Williams, "Next To Nature" by Jean Claude Toran, "Glowin" by The Rationals, "Magic In Your Eyes" by Rufus & Chaka Khan, "Sensuality (parts 1 & 2)" by The Isley Brothers, "Sienna" by Stanley Cowell, "Quiet Storm" by Smokey Robinson, "Wheels Of Life" by Gino Vannelli, and "Gotta Find A Lover" by Roy Ayers. (Funky Compilations, Soul) CD
(Out of print, digipak has some light wear.)
41
Ace (UK), Late 60s/
Think The Beatles only had an impact on rock and pop fans in the America of the 60s? Think again – because their music had an undeniable impact on soul as well – as you'll here from this wonderful range of remakes of classic cuts from the Fab Four! The work here is a real surprise if you don't know the legacy – but it also really makes sense once you're reminded of the mind-expanding, ear-opening territory the group hit in the latter half of the 60s – and working with themes of social change, alienation, and personal longing – of the sort that turn out to be perfect for new interpretations in soul! Most of these cuts are way more than standard cover versions, too – as the arrangements are really inventive, and take off in bold new directions that make the songs very much new properties overall. Most of the work here is from the late 60s and early 70s – and as always with Ace Records, the notes and presentation really put the music in context! Titles include "The Fool On The Hill" by The Four Tops, "Dear Prudence" by The Five Stairsteps, "For No One" by Maceo & The King's Men, "She Came In Through The Bathroom Window" by Ike & Tina Turner, "Tomorrow Never Knows" by Junior Parker, "Got To Get You Into My Life" by Earth Wind & Fire, "Do You Want To Know A Secret" by Mary Wells, "Lovely Rita" by Fats Domino, "With A Little Help From My Friends" by The Undisputed Truth, "Savoy Truffle" by Ella Fitzgerald, and "Let It Be" by Bill Withers. (Funky Compilations, Soul) CD
42
Various —
Looking For Mr Goodbar ... LP Columbia, 1977. Near Mint- ... Out Of Stock
Not a bad little soundtrack – filled with sleazy 70s soul tunes! Given that the movie features Diane Keaton trawling her way through the singles underground of the time, the music goes pretty darn well with the film – and in fact is almost better, as it keeps a sunny optimism, without the darker turn of the narrative. Titles include "Don't Ask To Stay Until Tomorrow" by Marlena Shaw, "Don't Leave Me This Way" by Thelma Houston, "She Wants To Get On Down" and "She's Lonely" by Bill Withers, "Prelude To Love" and "Could It Be Magic" by Donna Summer, "Backstabbers" by The O'Jays, "Love Hangover" by Diana Ross, "Machine Gun" by The Commodores, and "Lowdown" by Boz Scaggs. (Soundtracks, Soul) LP, Vinyl record album
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Various —
Respect – Aretha's Influences & Inspiration ... CD Ace (UK), 1950s/
Storming old school R&B, simmering southern soul, stirring gospel soul, and some tender balladry – prime ingredients of some of the best material ever recorded by the incalculably iconic Aretha Franklin! This great collection of tracks cut in the 50s & 60s for Atlantic, Duke, Coral, Scepter, Savoy, Roulette, Mercury and other labels is easily imaginable as the source of inspiration and influence of the Queen Of Soul. Includes tracks by pivotal singers and soul stars, and some lesser known (but hardly lesser in quality) numbers – each and every one top notch and worthy of any conscientious collector of prime soul, and most importantly, it all works well together in the set, sequenced thoughtfully with a deep depth of styles. 24 tracks in all: "Respect" by Otis Redding, "The House That Jack Built" by Thelma Jones, "Sit Down And Cry" by Jean Walls, "Soulville" by Dinah Washington, "Try A Little Tenderness" by Little Miss Cornshucks, "Prove It" by Mary Wheeler, "Let Me Me In your Life" by Bill Withers, The Day Is Past And Gone" by Clara Wind and much more – with notes on each track in the nicely done booklet. CD
44
Various —
Save The Children ... LP Motown, 1973. Near Mint- 2LP Gatefold ... Out Of Stock
This one was kind of Motown's answer to the Wattstax albums – a double live set, recorded in Chicago during the Push Expo, headed by Jesse Jackson. The tracks here are more of a mixed bag than some of those on the deeper soul Wattstax albums, but there are some nice moments overall, buried in the large mix of music and artists – many of whom didn't normally record for Motown. The tunes are familiar, but they're presented here in some nicely different live takes. Titles include "Lean On Me" by Bill Withers, "Country Preacher" by Cannonball Adderley, "This Child Of Mine" by Zulema, "Everybody Plays The Fool" by Main Ingredient, "Give Me Your Love" by Curtis Mayfield, "I've Gotta Be Me" by Sammy Davis Jr, "I Wanna Be Where You Are" by The Jackson 5, "What's Going On" by Marvin Gaye, "Close To You" by Jerry Butler & Brenda Lee Eager, "On A Clear Day/
45
Various —
Soldier's Sad Story – Vietnam Through The Eyes Of Black America 1966 to 1973 ... CD Kent/
A really great little set – with a very unique take on soul music! As the title indicates, the package documents the African-American response to the Vietnam War that emerged in soul singles during the late 60s and early 70s. The feel here is quite different than the raw, ragged protest of American rock at the time – and has a more helpless, disenfranchised feel that really gets at the true spirit of what most of America was going through in dealing with the war. The range of material is really great – and includes soul from the south, Chicago, LA, New York, and Philly – with a number of tunes that you may know, but have never identified strongly as anti-war, plus other great ones that you've most likely not heard! Titles include "While I'm Away" by Eddy G Giles, "POW MIA" by The Whispers, "Mail Call Time" by Mel & Tim, "Let's Face Facts" by James Carr, "Going To Viet Nam" by Big Amos, "Lonely Soldier" by Mike Williams, "He'll Be Back" by The Players, "Greetings" by The Monitors, "Christmas In Vietnam" by Johnny & Jon, "There's Someone Waiting Back Home" by The O'Jays, and "I Can't Write Left Handed" by Bill Withers. (Funky Compilations, Soul) CD
46
Various —
Soul Story Vol 2 ... CD Time Life/
Music from Sam & Dave, Wilson Pickett, Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding, Clarence Carter, the Staple Singers, Bill Withers, Ben E King, Betty Wright, Jerry Butler & the Impressions, Ray Charles, Solomon Burke, Jackie Wilson, Sam Cooke, and more. CD
(Out of print.)
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