The Fantastics
The Fantastics
A2 Sad Eyed Romany Woman 3:09
A3 Old Rags And Tatters 3:48
A4 Maria Maria 3:11
A5 People I've Got A Dream 2:39
A6 You've Got A Friend 3:28
B1 Love Me Love The Life I Lead 3:02
B2 Something To Remember You By 2:59
B3 I Can Feel The Warm 3:07
B4 Man Made World 2:26
B5 Just A Little Bit Harder 2:22
B6 Something Wonderful 3:18
Label: Bell Records – BELLS 200
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: UK
Released: 1972
Genre: R&B Soul, Funk
Style: Sixties Soul, Pop
The 1972 self-titled album by the British soul group The Fantastics (originally known as The Velours) is a Funk/Soul record released on the Bell Records label. The album solidifies the group's transition from performing covers of US Motown songs in UK clubs to recording original material, featuring production from top British songwriters.
The album is characterized by its smooth, pop-soul sound, reflecting the group's success on the British club and Northern Soul circuits. The production is clean and studio-oriented, differing from some of the more raw funk of the era. It includes both upbeat tracks and ballads, utilizing a full band arrangement with prominent horn sections.
While the album as a whole was part of their steady output in the UK, several individual tracks were released as singles and became popular.
It features the track "Something Old, Something New," which was a significant hit for the group, reaching number 9 on the UK singles chart in 1971. Another key track is "(Love Me) Love the Life I Lead," which charted in the US in 1972.
The album captures The Fantastics at a peak moment in their recording career after signing to Bell Records, highlighting their blend of pop sensibilities with a rich, soulful delivery.