BAR-KAYS '81 FUNK LP NIGHTCRUISING

BAR-KAYS NIGHTCRUISING LPCategory / Style / Moods: R&B Soul, Funk, Instrumental Rock12.77 / 2008-09-09 S asocc1981 MERCURY US LPTITLE: NIGHTCRUISINGARTIST: BAR-KAYSCONDITIONCOVER: VG-VINYL: VG+Click here for info on grading and abbreviationsORIGINAL PRESS COMPLETE WITH INNER LYRIC SLEEVEClick the pix for a better view TRACKS: Disc: 1 1.NightcruisingBar Kays, Jones 4:152.Hit and RunBar Kays, Jones 5:473.Feels Like I'm Falling in LoveBar Kays, Jones 3:514.Freaky BehaviorJones, Redmond 5:085.Touch ToneBar Kays, Jones 4:146.Unforgettable DreamBar Kays, Jones 4:347.Traffic JammerBar Kays, Jones 5:478.Backseart DriverBar Kays, Jones 3:479.Hit and RunBar Kays, Jones 3:49Review by Amy Hanson By 1981, the Bar-Kays were firmly at the front of the synth-laden R&B pack that would come to dominate much of the scene. But, although they had left their Stax era chops behind, four albums into their Mercury career the band was still capable of flinging some fine funk your way. Best described, perhaps, as contemporary and more urban dance, Nightcruising showcased the band in fine form. Multiple lineup changes hadn't detracted too much from their overall proficiency, a seamless sound ineffably aided by their long-term relationship with producer Allen Jones. The sonics here are slick, bright, and punchy, and when the Bar-Kays are good they're nearly unstoppable, a trait best experienced across the hits "Hit and Run" and the deliciously lunatic "Freaky Behavior," which is packed with electronic antics and just a hint of Rick James styling. But there are other nice touches as well, particularly across the older school-styled "Touch Tone" and "Traffic Jam." Where the band stumbles, however, is across their ballads. They're nice enough to be sure, but listeners have never looked to the Bar-Kays to fill that void. And ultimately, it's this mishmash of style and intent that detracts from the overall package. Rather than try to please everyone, the band should stick to what they do best -- thrill the grooves off a crowd. This exquisite piece of retro music history is a vinyl sound recording (not a CD). Please visit the A Sound Deal store for similar items and information on grading and shipping. Add me to your favorites for red hot sales bulletins and sneak previews of upcoming products. Combine Items to Save $$$! Click here to check the store for more!�A Sound Deal