Perfect Harmony Sweet Soul Groups 1968-77 / Var

I bought a previous CD in this series, "More Perfect Harmony" and enjoyed it immensely, so it wasn't a difficult a decision to get this one also. Once again, a thoroughly satisfying collection of sweet 1970s soul music (actually, the tracks range from 1986 to 1976) --- the focus being on soul groups that skillfully used harmonies in their songs --- that is packed with delightful surprises.There are a few groups on here you have no doubt heard before (The Jackson 5, The Floaters, The Temprees) but perhaps not these rare tracks. But those few name acts are only the tip of the musical iceberg here. Among my favorites are "Mannish Boy" by the Newcomers (you can also find that track on the excellent CD reissue of their music that Kent has released); "I've Been in Love" by the Smith Connection (one of this group's singers later wrote and produced songs for Invictus label acts such as Freda Payne and Honey Cone); "The Echo" by the Epsilons (a group that featured two guys named McFadden and Whitehead --- yep, the same ones!); "Please Don't Leave" by Tuxedo (released on Hi Records, featuring the Hi Rhythm Section and the singer, to quote the liner notes, "obviously spent a long time studying the vocal mannerisms of Al Green"); "I Wanna Be Loved" by Teacher's Edition (also with the Hi Rhythm Section, and later covered by Elvis Costello); "One Last Memory" by the Smallwood Brothers (produced by Van McCoy, who also supplied harmony vocals!); and a pretty cool cover of Paul McCartney's "My Love" by the LTD Exchange. But rest assured, the rest of the tracks are pretty darned fine too.With this CD you get a 16-page booklet that is packed with information about these artists and their often too-brief recording careers. A splendid collection of late '60s and '70s soul music, sure to please fans of vocal groups from this magical era.

These are the songs that take me back to blue light basement house parties and community center parties. They are some of the most memorable social gatherings I have ever attended. That is how we partied back in the 1960's and 1970's before discotheques exploded on the scene. Kudos to Tony Rounce for a complete compilation of enjoyable tracks and Duncan Cowell for great mastering of sound on stereo and mono recordings. All twenty-four tracks are sweet and soulicious! The sixteen page booklet insert contains a brief intro to each vocal group, song and some photos. Who knew back in 1968 that a local Gary, Indiana vocal group of five brothers would eventually sell millions of 45's and albums, be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and give birth to the "King of Pop"!?

There are quite a few good tunes here, such as Baby It's You" by the Masqueraders and "One Last Memory," by the Smallwood Brothers and the Floater's first record (as well as the sweet remake of Curtis Mayfield's "I've Been Trying.") For historical interest, there's the very first Jackson 5 record (pre-Motown) "Big Boy" with what Michael himself has described as "that killer bass line," but that's easily available elsewhere. At first, the lack of catchy hooks in most of the tunes will cause the casual listener to dismiss this collection as lesser works (as I did at first), but upon repeated listening, these obscure tunes are (for the most part) quite wonderful. So when you buy this, give it a few listens before you pass judgement. These songs will sound better once they grow on you.

For every Stylistics, Delfonics, Dramatics, Impressions and Spinners that made it there was at least one equally-talented Soul harmony group that didn't...but that deserved to. This wonderful compilation includes gorgeous ballads from such obscure but talented groups like Act One, The Mayberry Movement, Teacher's Edition, The Epsilons and many others whose records wnt nowhere when originally issued but that are today considered valuable collector's items. If you love Sweet Soul ballads then this CD must be added to your collection. As with virtually all other Kent compilations, this Cd's sound quality is excellent and the booklet features informative liner notes and discographical information. A must-have!!!

Man oh man! This is one I listen to and can't stop smiling. Great CD!

it speak for it self.

Item arrived in condition described. Very satisfied customer.

Great sweet soul!