Search - Joe South :: Games People Play: Joe South (Reis)

Singer/songwriter/guitarist at best

Kevin D. Rathert | Carbondale, IL | 05/22/2010

(5 out of 5 stars)

"In this, the second of three two album on one cd's released by Australian reissue label Raven, Joe South is at the absolute top of his game. Both albums contain songs that were hits for South in some cases and by others in most cases. The disc has 3 bonus tracks, 2 of which were released as by The Believers, who were in fact South's backing band, and included his brother Tommy on drums and sister in law Barbara on keyboards. South's distinct guitar and voice are on display here at the height of his fame as a songwriter supplying hits for numerous artists. From the opening notes of the first track on the disc the listener is in for a treat. South not only writes great music, but his lyrics are often insightful and comment on society around him. The songs from on this disc will be familiar to fans of late 60s, early 70s rock and roll. "Games People Play" was a big hit for South himself. "Hush" a smash for Deep Purple, "Birds of a Feather" for Paul Revere and the Raiders, "Rose Garden" for Lynn Anderson, "Yo Yo" for the Osmonds of all people, and the list goes on. However, as is so often the case, the original versions are quite superior. South guitar work shines throughout. And his distinct voice is filled with emotion. Recorded before South's personal life was shattered by the suicide of his brother Tommy, these albums are chock full of South's brand of "Atlanta Sound" rock, being a pleasant mixture of country, soul, and rock, and in South's case the lyrics are introspective and contain commentary on society in the difficult years of the Viet Nam War. All of South's Capitol albums, 6 total, are available on 2 on 1 discs from Raven and are all absolutely essential to any collector of later 60s, early 70s rock and roll. Even if you aren't familiar with the name Joe South you'll know and love the songs here, and if you aren't familiar with South you are in for a real treat as guitar prowess made him a busy session guitarist before his solo career. His performances here are classic."

Great song writer

rick Gurley | carefree arz. | 03/23/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"South is one of the great song writers of our time.Just listen to the message in his songs.......Games People Play......Rose Garden....Listen."