Search - Bar-Kays :: Flying High on Your Love

Essential funk!

Marcus Chapman | Chicago, IL United States | 07/11/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"One of THE key funk albums of the late 70's, and the first Bar-Kays album to go gold. The front cover photo gives the impression that it's a fun and energetic party with a band ready to have a good time, and that's exactly what this album is. Songs like "Let's Have Some Fun", "Whatever It Is", and the out-to-get-some anthem "Can't Keep My Hands Off You" live up to the party vibe. "Let's Have Some Fun" and "Attitudes" were the hit singles, but "You Can't Run Away" also recieved alot of airplay. "Shut the Funk Up" and the title cut are just as strong. The band is in top form, especially James Alexander on bass and Winston Stewart on keyboards. Larry Dodson's vocals are strong and entertaining with enough "oww"'s, "yoww"'s and "well"'s you could ask for from a funky lead vocalist (particularly on "Standing on the Outside" and "Attitudes"). The Ohio Players influence on this album is strong, including the "naked angel" drawing on the cover. However, since the Players were on an unfortunate downward slide by then, I see this more as a continuation of their vibe instead of a rip-off. Song for song, this may be the Bar-Kays best album. Along with their previous effort "Too Hot To Stop"(which could also arguably be their best), a must have for any true funk fan!"