I never understood why on Ultimate Breaks and Beats they had the last second of "Runaway" tacked onto the beginning of "I Wouldn't Change A Thing." On the LP they don't segue in any way that feels on beat, but maybe that was a thing old school DJs did. Cut in the "Runaway" and then have that silence and then the beat drops? I don't know Lou so I never got the chance to ask about it. This was one of those records on my early early want lists that has persevered. It's a really solid album but "Runaway" is just an absolute master jam. Simple sweet lyrics that never feel hokey or camp, great guitar, sax and that wicked open hi hat (forgive me if it's a ride, I know jack about instruments) that holds the beat together. I always loved the idea of a breakbeat you could play all the way through for b-boys that was also this love song tinged with sadness. From the very beginning I gravitated towards these records, not the hard funk 45s or deeper jazz stuff, but dancey sort of sad songs, so don't get me started on the live version of "Home Is Where The Hatred Is" good god what a masterpiece. Anyway, if you don't have this record get it, for me it's a must own.

• 180g black vinyl pressing
  
• original release year: 1976
  
• music label: Music On Vinyl 2022

reviewed by Roctakon 04/2020