Bloodstone
Bloodstone is an American R&B, soul, and funk band that emerged from Kansas City, Missouri, in the early 1960s. They are best known for their contributions to the music scene during the 1970s and early 1980s, characterized by a "sweet soul" sound that garnered considerable popularity.
The group was formed in 1962, originally as a high school band of a cappella singers called The Sinceres. Over the years, they evolved their style and lineup, solidifying their place in the music industry. Bloodstone's roots are deeply embedded in the Kansas City music scene, which provided a rich environment for their artistic development.
After years of performing, they moved to Los Angeles, learned instruments, and rebranded as Bloodstone, adding members like Melvin Webb, Charles Love, Charles McCormick, Harry Williams, and Willis Draffen. In 1972 they moved to England, signed with Decca Records, and found immediate success with their second album, Natural High (1973). The title track, "Natural High," became a multi-million-selling, gold-certified smash hit, reaching the Pop Top 10 and becoming a soulful anthem.
Bloodstone released a series of successful albums and singles, with a total of thirteen songs making it onto the charts between 1973 and 1984. Their music blends elements of soul, R&B, and funk, showcasing their versatility and appeal across different audiences. The band achieved significant commercial success, becoming one of the most notable groups to emerge from Kansas City during that era.
With their smooth harmonies and distinctive sound, Bloodstone has left a lasting impact on the genres of R&B and soul. Their music continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by fans of classic funk and soul music, and their contributions helped shape the musical landscape of their time
Despite lineup changes and the deaths of key members (Melvin Webb in 1982, Willis Draffen in 2002, Charles Love in 2014), the band continued to tour and record. In 2019, they received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the National R&B Music Society, solidifying their lasting impact.
We Go A Long Way Back
Written-By – Charles Love, Kitty Sears 8:07
A2 How Does It Feel
Bass – Eddie Watkins
Soloist, Alto Saxophone [Alto Sax Solo] – Don Myrick
Vocals [Female Vocalist] – Kitty Sears
Written-By – Charles Love, Curtis Love, Kitty Sears, Oscar Love 11:04
A3 We Go A Long Way Back
Soloist, Alto Saxophone [Alto Sax Solo] – Fernando Harkless
Written-By – Charles Love 4:54
B1 Funkin' Around
Soloist, Tenor Saxophone [Tenor Sax Solo] – Don Myrick
Written-By – McKinley Jackson, Ronald Wilson 6:41
B2 My Kind Of Woman
Bass – James Jamerson Jr.
Written-By – Ronald Wilson 4:42
B3 My Love Grows Stronger
Synthesizer – Paul Fox
Written-By – McKinley Jackson, Shirley Jones, Valorie Jones 6:16
B4 Nite Time Fun
Written-By – Charles Love 4:31
Label: T-Neck – FZ 38115
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1982
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Eighties Soul, Funk
Bloodstone's 1982 album We Go A Long Way Back is a well-regarded R&B/soul record noted for its blend of the group's classic 70s vocal harmonies with a more modern, early 80s funk sound. The album is often described as a tale of two sides, balancing soulful ballads with upbeat, danceable funk tracks.
Reviewers consistently praise the group's excellent harmonies and the emotional power of the lead vocals, especially on the slow jams. The vocal interplay is described as "peerless" and central to the album's success.
The album is considered eclectic, incorporating elements of doo-wop, soul, funk, jazz, and R&B. Side one of the original vinyl features the "old Bloodstone" sound with lush, understated arrangements, while side two introduces a "new Bloodstone" with a harder-driving, party-oriented funk sound.
It was produced by The Isley Brothers and utilized top session musicians, resulting in a polished and professional sound.
While it didn't replicate the massive success of their 1973 hit album Natural High, We Go A Long Way Back performed reasonably well, reaching number 11 on the US R&B album chart. The title track single was a top five R&B hit.
Standout Tracks:-
"We Go A Long Way Back": The title track and most successful single (reaching number 5 on the US R&B charts), praised for its slow, sultry, and impassioned fusion of doo-wop, soul, and jazz.
"Go On and Cry": An emotive and dramatic ballad featuring a "heartbroken, powerful" vocal performance.
"How Does It Feel": An eleven-minute epic known for its tender harmonies, jazzy guitar, and building drama.
"My Kind Of Woman": An uptempo, hook-laden dance track that is considered a "timeless" piece of the album's funk-oriented second half.
Overall, We Go A Long Way Back is viewed as a significant and versatile album in Bloodstone's discography, showcasing their ability to evolve with the times while staying true to their soulful roots. It is well-regarded by fans and critics for its strong songwriting and high-quality production.