H
Central Heating
Written-By – R. Temperton 6:36
2 Send Out For Sunshine
Written-By – R. Temperton 4:26
3 Central Heating
Written-By – R. Temperton 4:44
4 Happiness Togetherness
Written-By – J. Wilder, Jr. 4:00
5 The Groove Line
Written-By – R. Temperton 4:19
6 Mind Blowing Decisions
Written-By – J. Wilder, Jr. 4:17
7 The Star Of A Story
Written-By – R. Temperton 5:41
8 Party Poops
Written-By – R. Temperton 3:51
9 Leavin' For A Dream
Written-By – R. Temperton 3:24
11 The Groove Line (12" Disco Version)
Written-By – R. Temperton 7:26
12 Mind Blowing Decisions (12” Disco Version)
Written-By – J. Wilder, Jr. 7:31
Label: GTO – GTLP 027
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: UK
Released: 1977
Genre: R&B Soul, Funk
Style: Disco, Funk, Soul
Heatwave's Central Heating album is widely acclaimed as a funk-disco masterpiece, praised for its flawless production, timeless grooves, killer singles like "The Groove Line," and stunning ballads such as "Mind Blowing Decisions" and "The Star of a Story," showcasing tight musicianship, great vocals, and Rod Temperton's brilliant songwriting, though noted for its lack of horns and some critics finding it too polished for its era, with AllMusic giving it 5 stars and Robert Christgau a C-.
The album received universal praise for its quality, with AllMusic calling it a near-perfect R&B gem and Virgin Encyclopedia giving it 5 stars, though Robert Christgau found it somewhat shallow disco.
It features major dance hits like the infectious "The Groove Line" and the soulful mid-tempo "Mind Blowing Decisions". with Rod Temperton's signature songwriting and arrangements, blending dancefloor fillers with beautiful, atmospheric ballads.
It highlights tight, funky musicianship, excellent vocals from the Wilder brothers, and a clean, well-produced sound, often without heavy brass.
Reviewers note its enduring appeal, with tracks like "The Star of a Story" feeling both nostalgic and fresh. Considered a complete album with no weak tracks, perfect for late-night listening.
In Summary, Central Heating is seen as Heatwave's definitive work, capturing the peak of their funk-disco sound with sophisticated production and enduring hits, cementing their legacy before lead singer Johnnie Wilder's accident and Rod Temperton's departure for Quincy Jones.
Funk In A Mason Jar
A2 Till You Take My Love (David Foster, Harvey Mason 3:30)
A3 Space Cadets (Dave Grusin, Harvey Mason, Louis Johnson, Ray Parker 3:32)
A4 Freedom Either Way (Harvey Mason, S. Mason 3:30)
A5 Funk In A Mason Jar (Harvey Mason 1:50
B1 What's Going On? (Alfred Cleveland, Marvin Gaye, Renaldo Benson 8:23)
B2 Set It Free (Eva Ein, Kenny Loggins 5:49
B3 Phantazia (Dave Grusin 4:25)
B4 Liquid (Harvey Mason 4:37)
Label: Arista – AB 4157
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1977
Genre: Jazz, Funk / Soul
Style: Soul-Jazz, Smooth Jazz, Jazz-Funk
Funk in a Mason Jar is a 1977 jazz-funk album by drummer and composer Harvey Mason. The album is known for its blend of funk, disco, and soul, and it features Mason's original compositions alongside a notable, extended instrumental rendition of Marvin Gaye's "What's Going On" with George Benson on guitar. The album's commercial success was significant, reaching the Top 40 on the R&B charts and the Top 10 on the jazz charts.
The album features a wide array of acclaimed guest musicians, including members of Earth, Wind & Fire, Tower of Power, and other prominent session players.
The album marked a commercial breakthrough for Mason, solidifying his reputation as a skilled composer and producer in addition to being a renowned drummer. It is considered a classic of the 1970s jazz-funk era.
Head Hunters
Written-By – B. Maupin, H. Mason, H. Hancock, P. Jackson 15:41
A2 Watermelon Man
Arranged By – Harvey Mason
Written-By – H. Hancock 6:29
B1 Sly
Written-By – H. Hancock 10:18
B2 Vein Melter
Written-By – H. Hancock 9:10
Label: Columbia – KC 32731
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1973
Genre: R&B Jazz
Style: Jazz-Funk
Herbie Hancock's 1973 album Head Hunters is widely regarded as a classic and a landmark in the jazz-funk and jazz fusion genres. It was a massive commercial and artistic success, becoming one of the best-selling jazz albums of all time and greatly influencing funk, soul, and hip-hop music.
Critics widely praise the album for breaking new ground by merging jazz improvisation with the deep, infectious grooves of funk, inspired by artists like Sly Stone and James Brown. Its innovative use of synthesizers, particularly the iconic ARP bassline on "Chameleon," has made it a touchstone for future genres like electronic music and hip-hop.
Reviewers note that while the album is far more accessible and "danceable" than Hancock's previous avant-garde work (such as Sextant), it maintains a high level of musicianship and complex rhythmic interplay. This balance made it appealing to both jazz enthusiasts and mainstream audiences.
The band, known as The Headhunters (featuring Bennie Maupin, Paul Jackson, Bill Summers, and Harvey Mason), receives high marks for their chemistry and individual performances, particularly Paul Jackson's fat, groovy bass work and Harvey Mason's innovative drumming.
Some jazz purists at the time decried the shift as "selling out" due to its commercial appeal and simpler, groove-based structure compared to his more complex earlier works. However, many modern critics argue that Hancock managed to keep his musical dignity intact, creating a unique and compelling sound.
Key Tracks:
"Chameleon": The album opener is its most famous track, instantly recognizable by its distinctive, infectious synthesizer bassline. Reviewers highlight the track's engaging solo sections and how it builds from a simple groove into a full jam session.
"Watermelon Man": A complete re-imagining of Hancock's 1962 classic, this version features an African-influenced, tribal introduction using beer bottles and vocal bursts, evolving into a slow-burning funk track.
"Sly": A tribute to Sly Stone, this track is noted for its high energy, fast-paced drumming, and complex rhythmic interplay between clavinet, electric piano, and Bennie Maupin's soaring saxophone.
"Vein Melter": The album closer is a more laid-back, spacey, and atmospheric piece, described as a "futuristic loungey" track with a smooth, slow groove that effectively winds down the album.
The album reached platinum status and peaked at number 13 on the Billboard 200 chart, a phenomenal success for a jazz album.
Head Hunters was added to the U.S. Library of Congress's National Recording Registry of "culturally, historically or aesthetically important" sound recordings and was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2009.
It was ranked number 254 in Rolling Stone magazine's 2020 revision of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time.
Howard Hewett – It’s Time
2 Crystal Clear 4:49
3 This Love Is Forever 5:38
4 Your Body Needs Healin' 4:40
5 For The Lover In You 6:58
6 I Wanna Know You 5:33
7 Say Good-Bye 4:18
8 How Do I Know I Love You 4:19
9 A Love Of Your Own 4:58
10 Just To Keep You Satisfied 4:41
11 On & On 5:35
12 Amazing Grace (Interlude) 1:41
13 Call His Name 4:32
Label: Caliber Records – 69052-1008
Format: CD, Album
Country: US
Released: 1994
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Downtempo, Soul
Howard Hewett's It's Time album, often noted as a standout solo effort from the former Shalamar vocalist, is praised for its smooth, soulful R&B and quiet storm vibes, showcasing his pure, soaring voice on seductive ballads perfect for relaxation or romance, featuring standout tracks like "Crystal Clear" and "For The Lover In You," solidifying his status as a top-tier R&B talent.
The album consistently delivers smooth, mellow R&B, ideal for chilling, cruising, or intimate moments.
Fans consistently highlight Hewett's beautiful, clear, and soulful voice, noting how he uses it to mimic instruments and pierce the soul.
The music creates a "mood for love," with themes of romance and connection throughout.
Notable Tracks:
"Crystal Clear": Sets the tone for the album's romantic feel.
"For The Lover In You": A popular, extended track that embodies the album's sensual essence.
"Your Body Needs Healin'": A fan favorite that contributes to the album's relaxing atmosphere.
Many listeners consider it one of his most underrated projects, filled with infectious music. Praised as "pure class" and a fantastic, relaxing listen. Great for long drives, quiet nights, or just unwinding.
Overall, It's Time is seen as a quintessential Howard Hewett album, proving his enduring talent for delivering soulful, well-crafted R&B with a distinct romantic flair, even if it sometimes flies under the radar compared to his Shalamar hits or other solo efforts.
In My Mind
Written-By – Drew Ramsey 4:06
2 Am I Worth It
Written-By – J. Smith, J. Campbell, W. Campbell 3:21
3 Wait A Minute
Written-By – Jazz Nixon, Tamara Savage 3:31
4 I Didn't Mean To
Written-By – A. Butler, K. Phillip, S. Smith, S. Johnson 3:54
5 How Many Ways
Written-By – A. Palmer, C. Solo, H. Headley, K. Ellie, L. Daniels, Sky, S. Marsden 3:18
6 Back When It Was
Written-By – C. Love, L. Nix, J. Smith, L. Jefferson 4:27
7 What's Not Being Said
Written-By – James Q. Wright, James Harris, III, Terry Lewis 4:35
8 Losing You
Written-By – Heather Headley 3:47
9 Rain
Written-By – H. Headley, M. Gregory, O. Burrell, A. Kelly, V. Nobles 3:12
10 The Letter
Written-By [Uncredited] – Marcus Allen 4:16
11 Me Time
Written-By – Babyface, Gregg Pagani 3:48
12 Change
Written-By – E. Dawkins, H. Headley, W. Campbell 3:18
Label: RCA – 82876 64492-2
Format: CD, Album
Country: US
Released: 2006
Genre: Hip Hop, Funk, Soul, Pop
Style: Neo Soul, Contemporary R&B
In My Mind is the second studio album by Trinidadian-American singer Heather Headley, released by RCA Records on January 31, 2006. A follow-up to her Grammy-nominated debut This Is Who I Am, the album is a contemporary R&B and soul record that functions as a "soulful, sonically charged diary" exploring the major themes of relationships, confidence, family, and self-improvement.
A team of notable producers including Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, Lil' Jon, Ne-Yo (who co-wrote and produced the title track), and Babyface contributed to the album's sound.
In My Mind is characterized by Headley's powerful, "gargantuan voice" and a mature R&B sound. Critics noted that Headley sounds more assured on this album, delivering an elegant and musical set of arrangements. The songs are often described as relatable and confessional, covering emotional ground from love and cheating to breakups and self-realization.
While some reviews found the album to be a generic "adult" R&B diva album, the strength of Headley's vocals and the emotional depth she injects into the songs were widely praised. The album incorporates a variety of musical styles, including lush piano ballads, dancehall/reggae-infused tracks, and a closing gospel-lite song, showcasing her versatility.
The title track and lead single, a piano ballad co-written by Ne-Yo, which became a significant hit, peaking at number seventy-five on the Billboard Hot 100.
The album successfully built on Headley's debut and was considered to have passed the "sophomore jinx" with flying colors by many fans and critics. The dual-disc version of the album also includes behind-the-scenes footage for an immersive experience.
Incredible
Written-By – P. Hodges, WM. Stevenson 4:07
A2 I Should Stay
Written By – J. Gerard, WM. Stevenson 2:51
A3 Signal Yout Intention
Written-By – Richard Henn 3:00
A4.1 Medley: Rock Me Baby / Steamroller
Written-By – R.B. King, James Taylor, J. Josea 3:39
A5 Oh
Written By – J. Gerard, WM. Stevenson 3:01
B1 Little By Little (Bit By Bit)
Written-By – Colbert, WM. Stevenson 4:02
B2 If You Wanna Love Me
Written-By – Colbert, Hurst, WM. Stevenson 3:42
B3 Can't Be Alone
Written-By – S. Friedman, WM. Stevenson 3:33
B4 You Take My Love For Granted
Written-By – L. Perry 2:45
B5 Love Was Just A Word
Written-By – WM. Stevenson 3:02
Label: 20th Century Records – T-425
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1973
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Seventies Soul
Incredible, the 1973 debut album by vocal trio Hodges, James & Smith, is a smooth blend of orchestrated soul, mid-tempo R&B, and pop-soul, featuring lush arrangements with electric piano, organ, and layered guitars, showcasing their tight harmonies on tracks like "Turn The People On," though it was a solid effort that didn't become a major commercial success.
A sophisticated mix of soul, pop-soul, and R&B, with rich backing from LA session musicians giving it a jazzy feel, it emphasizes the trio's impressive vocal harmonies.
Produced by William Stevenson, who crafted a polished sound with intricate arrangements.
While well-regarded by some for its quality, it struggled to find a wide audience, leading to its quick disappearance from mainstream attention, but the group continued performing and releasing music.
Incredible is considered a key album for collectors of 70s soul and funk, appreciated for its strong vocal performances and production quality, though the group was generally considered "unsung" and overshadowed by more famous acts like the Supremes and Earth, Wind & Fire. It can be found on platforms like Discogs where fans can view its various releases and credits.
Reaching For The World
A2 Where There's A Will - There's A Way (H. Melvin, M. & M. Steele 4:05)
A3 After You Love Me, Why Do You Leave Me (H.J. Melvin*, K. Gamble 4:42)
A4 Sandman (Hubert V. Yarborough 4:25)
B1 Hostage Part 1 & 2 (Hubert V. Yarborough 6:30)
B2 He Loves You And I Do Too (Harold J. Melvin 3:37)
B3 Big Singing Star (Harold J. Melvin 3:33)
B4 Stay Together (G. McFadden*, J. Whitehead, V. Carstarphen 5:00)
Label: ABC Records – AB-969
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1976
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Seventies Soul
Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes' Reaching For The World (1976/77) is a well-regarded, post-Teddy Pendergrass album marking their debut on ABC Records, praised for its lush Philly Soul sound, sophisticated arrangements, and strong performances by new lead David Ebo, blending upbeat dancers like the title track with soulful mid-tempo groovers like "After You Love Me, Why Do You Leave Me" and Sharon Paige duets, proving the group's enduring quality despite the lineup change.
It's significant as the first album after Teddy Pendergrass's departure, showcasing a shift with new lead David Ebo, though maintaining the classic Sigma Sound studio feel. Critics highlight its rich harmonies, melodic sophistication, and danceable rhythms, capturing the essence of mid-70s Philly Soul before disco fully took over.
Fans and reviewers appreciate its consistent quality, balancing personal and political themes with excellent pacing, making it a "lost classic" for many.
Reaching For The World is considered a strong album that successfully transitioned the group by featuring the talented David Ebo alongside the familiar tight harmonies and sophisticated production that defined Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes.
Steppin’ Out
Arranged By – Sylvester Rivers
Written-By – Marilyn McLeod, Pam Sawyer 3:21
A2 Hi !
Arranged By – Wade Marcus
Written-By – Barbara Mitchell, Vernessa Mitchell 2:41
A3 You Captured My Heart
Arranged By – Al Willis , Sylvester Rivers, William Bickelhaupt
Written-By – Al Willis , Troy Laws 3:24
A4 Didn't Wanna Tell You
Arranged By – William Bickelhaupt
Written-By – William Bickelhaupt 3:44
A5 Everytime I See You I Go Wild
Arranged By – Al Willis , William Bickelhaupt
Written-By – Henry Cosby, Stevie Wonder, Sylvia Moy 3:36
B1 Fly Little Blackbird
Arranged By – Al Willis , Sylvester Rivers
Written-By – Al Willis 5:01
B2 Beware
Arranged By – Sylvester Rivers
Written-By – Al Willis , Gwen Fuqua 3:26
B3 We Are The Future
Arranged By – Mel Bolton, Rene Hall
Written-By – Friendly Womack, Jimmy Holiday, Mel Bolton, Troy Laws 3:37
B4 Peaceland
Arranged By – Wade Marcus
Written-By – Barbara Mitchell, Michelle Martin, Vernessa Mitchell 3:24
Label: Gordy – G7-982R1
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1978
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Seventies Soul, Disco
High Inergy's second album, Steppin' Out, received a mixed critical reception at the time of its release, as it did not live up to the commercial success or critical praise of their hit debut album, Turnin' On. However, some modern personal reviews consider it a strong, cohesive album that can be played without skips.
The album did not perform as well commercially as their debut. Many contemporary music critics at the time "crucified" the album and subsequent releases, feeling the group's output was uneven due to working with a variety of producers. The consensus was generally that the quality suffered after the initial hit.
Some dedicated fans and modern reviewers praise Steppin' Out as a "phenomenal" or "great" album, often citing it as their second-best effort after their debut. These reviews highlight the group's strong and "heavenly" vocals and harmonies, finding the album flows easily from start to finish. The average user rating on Discogs is around 3.7 to 4 out of 5 stars across various releases.
The album was produced by the same team responsible for their hit debut and features several standout songs.
"Lovin' Fever": The album kicks off with this "sassy and percolating" track, written by the same Motown staff writers (Pam Sawyer and Marilyn McLeod) who penned their #1 single "You Can't Turn Me Off (In the Middle of Turning Me On)".
"Hi": A "sweet number" written by group members and sisters Barbara and Vernessa Mitchell.
The album is considered a good representation of the disco and R&B genres popular at the time of its release.
Take Me With You
Written-By – E. Wayne, R. Dunbar 2:41
A2 Son Of A Preacher Man
Written-By – J.D. Hurley, R.S. Wilkins 2:27
A3 Take Me With You
Written-By – E. Wayne, R. Dunbar 2:58
A4 Girls It Ain't Easy
Written-By – E. Wayne, R. Dunbar 3:11
A5 You've Made Me So Very Happy
Written-By – B. Gordy, Jr., B. Holloway, F. Wilson, P. Holloway 3:16
A6 Are You Man Enough, Are You Strong Enough?
Written-By – E. Wayne, R. Dunbar 3:15
B1 Aquarius
Written-By – G. MacDermot, G. Ragni, J. Rado 2:55
B2 Take My Love
Written-By – G. Perry, R. Dunbar 2:52
B3 While You're Out Looking For Sugar
Written-By – E. Wayne, R. Dunbar 3:13
B4 My Mind's On Leaving But My Heart Won't Let Me Go
Written-By – E. Wayne, R. Dunbar 2:55
B5 The Feeling's Gone
Written-By – E. Wayne, R. Dunbar 2:49
Label: Hot Wax – HA 701
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1970
Genre:
R&B Soul
Style: Seventies Soul
Take Me With You is the 1970 debut album by the American female vocal trio Honey Cone, a classic of the Soul genre known for its blend of sweetness and a spunky, female-empowerment perspective. The album was the first release on the Hot Wax label, founded by the prolific songwriting and production team Holland-Dozier-Holland after their departure from Motown.
The album introduces Honey Cone's distinctive "soulful spunk," featuring songs that often adopt a "scolding tone" toward cheating or hypocritical men, using relatable old sayings and cliches. Lyrically, the album explores themes of heartbreak and female resilience. Musically, it reflects the influences of earlier Motown girl groups like Martha & the Vandellas, delivering a sound that combines polished soul vocals with a grittier edge.
The album features several notable original tracks and popular covers:
"While You're Out Looking for Sugar": The debut single, which peaked at No. 26 on the Billboard R&B chart, sets the album's tone with its narrative about a woman threatening to find a better man.
"Girls, It Ain't Easy": Another significant single, this track reached No. 8 on the R&B chart and is a prime example of the group's female-empowerment anthems.
"Sunday Morning People": This song addresses religious hypocrisy with direct lyrics about people who are devout on Sunday but unkind the rest of the week.
The album includes covers of popular hits from the era, such as Dusty Springfield's classic "Son of a Preacher Man" and The 5th Dimension's "Aquarius" from the musical Hair.
While not on the original album release, their later massive hit, the chart-topping "Want Ads," is often included as a bonus track on remastered reissues.
The majority of the album's original songs were written by the pseudonymous "Edyth Wayne" and Ronald Dunbar, with Holland-Dozier-Holland being the true force behind the "Edyth Wayne" alias due to legal constraints from their Motown departure. The album was produced by Stagecoach Productions Inc. with supervision by Edward J. Holland, Jr., and arrangements by Tony Camillo.
Take Me With You is a seminal work that effectively launched Honey Cone's career and established the signature sound of the Hot Wax label.