#99
Sly and the Family Stone – There’s a Riot Goin’ On – Epic (1971)
Favorite Song: Luv & Haight
Other Notables: Spaced Cowboy, Thank You for Talkin’ To Me, Africa
I’ve never really given funk more than the occasional listen, and one of the points of doing this project is to expand my musical horizons, so I went into this album with a little hope and a little trepidation. The only song I can name by Sly & the Family Stone is “Everyday People” which has been ruined by commercials. Much to my surprise, I really enjoyed this album. Sly has a smooth voice and all of the wah effects start to grow on you. There’s even a little harmonica and yodeling on “Spaced Cowboy.” I will admit that I’m a sucker for a sweet bass groove and this album is chock full of them (of course, that’s pretty much what funk is). Listen to “Thank You For Talkin’ To Me, Africa” for an especially awesome one. Also, I’m pretty sure if you look like this, it’s impossible to make terrible music:
Bottom Line: Thank You For Going Easy On The Clarinet, Sly
Final Grade: B
The only funk I’ve ever been able to listen to regularly is George Clinton and the Parliment Funkadelics…or whatever they’re named. I might have to give Sly a chance. Oh…and this is awesome. If you don’t follow through on this blogging project, I’ll disown you.
Yeah, I can handle some George Clinton. The only other “funk” I can claim I’ve listened to is the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and that’s hardly funk.