One of the true heavyweight soul-funk titles. Most of the originals of this are likely in the hands of collectors trading places for over $200, and we're on the hunt. The title track is the monster with the smooth sampled groove and Syl Johnson's deep soul vocals. Clocking in at over 7 minutes, this is true epic soul. "Right On" is another track that everyone looks for, after it was given a rebirth on an No ID interlude on Common's second album. Pure heaven as the band gives away to the drums and Syl's shouts in this famous outtro. "Concrete Reservation" is sweet urban soul over Mayfield-like string arrangements giving Syl's vocals yet another angle. Of course, there are the required slow ballads and even the Beatles cover (Come Together), but the entire record holds itself together... completeness down to cover. High quality 50th anniversary repress courtesy of Numero Group.

• grey & black swirl colored vinyl
• limited edition
• original release year: 1970
• music label: Numero Group 2022

reviewed by the mgmnt 10/2005