Search - The Stylistics :: The Stylistics

An Essential example of the best of the Symphonic Soul Soun

NDBx | New York, NY United States | 09/24/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is an auspicious debut. At the time it was quite unique. I remember that while many of the elements present in this recording were in some part in other styles of R&B, no where was there a better combination of a sophisticated symphonic sound, with rich vocal harmony, a first rate, falsetto lead and evocative songs.



This is romantic elegance at it's height. This was one of the recordings that heralded the coming of that "Philly" style of soul, that to that point had not gotten wider exposure or at least the exposure that it deserves.



The songs are song of longing, love lost and found. There is even one long expansive piece, "People Make The World Go 'Round' that makes an attempt at social relevance.



Virtually a every piece is a winner. Everyone could've been a top-40 hit. Practically all were. My personal favorite is "Stop, Look, Listen" for it's rich orchestration, it's sense of yearning, strong harmonies and a sense of placement.



The pieces all ebb and flow and in the right places.



Other favorites are "You Are Everything", "You're A Big Girl Now", "Point Of No Return", "Betcha By Golly Wow" and "People Make The World Go 'Round".



This is a well orchestrated and crafted recording. For the romantics at heart out there.





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