Search - Blue Magic, Major Harris, Margie Joseph :: Live

"Be Thankful For What You Got" - William DeVaughn's noted so

William Blackshear | West Orange, NJ USA | 04/25/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"applies most appropiately to this release. At least we have "1" commercially released "Live" album containing the music of the legendary "Sweet Soul Titans" Blue Magic, performing at the peak of the group's musical career. One is better than none! Whos'ever call it was to do a "Live" album (1976), with Atlantic Records label mates Blue Magic, Major Harris and Margie Joseph, we applaud that decision! If listening to urban radio during the time of the album's release, where would one think the oft-played live version of "What's Come Over Me", with Blue Magic & Margie Joseph masterfully trading off, was harbored? On this lp. The original two record album has increased in value for a mint- copy over the past several years, and as the cover depicts, all three are listed across the top with equal billing, as to why no picture here? Recorded at the famed Latin Casino in Cherry Hill, NJ, the writer, a Jersey native himself, was fortunate enough to witness a number of soul and r&b acts during the era at the legendary establishment. With this cd in possession, listening to the three doing solo, joint and medleys, is a treat. When listening then, to the origianl lp and hearing Major Harris perform "I Got Over Love", caused the writer to begin the search, til' found, of the studio release of the song, did locate on his "Jealousy" album. No need in focusing on the songs here, most are known standards of the performers, bubbling strongly throughout during this legendary live performance! The whole album's good. Oh-h, there should have been more...., but as Billy DeVaughn so aptly spoke in song, "Be Thankful For What You Got....", this one and only "Live" album (thus far released) is what we have. Current remastering technology brings the ambience up to levels whereas the listener (with a sufficient sound system) can close their eyes, and hear the sounds as if being there. A classic. One of the best "Live" albums to emerge from the era, it's Buy Time."