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When the multi-racial Sly & The Family Stone burst onto the late sixties scene no one was quite prepared. A melting pot of rock, soul, pop & jazz, all delivered with an emotional punch rarely seen before. With a huge ego and talent to match, Sly matched outrageous costumes and performances alongside brilliant songs, becoming hugely influential on a plethora of artists since. This overview of the bands output for Epic covers the years 1967-75, a total of ten LP's. Starting with the obscure "Underdog" from the under-rated 'A Whole New Thing' before moving into classic singles "Dance to the Music", "M'Lady" and "Life", it becomes obvious just how genre-bending this brilliant music is. A tougher more political edge comes through on songs like "Don't Call Me Nigger Whitey" and "Everyday People", with lyrics that compliment the radical changes then happening in US society.
One of the most brilliant albums in the history of pop music, 'There's A Riot Going On' is heavily documented including both "Family Affair" and "Runnin' Away". With a catalogue to die for it is also good to see some later lesser-known material included, both "Time For Livin'" and "I Get High On You" are excellent songs even if the respective albums, 'Small Talk' and 'High On You' capture Sly at his self indulgent worst. Overall the essential title rings true, and frankly there should always be some Sly in your collection, and with this excellent compilation there really is no excuse. A superb set that will enthrall both pop and soul fans alike. Recommended. |
