Brother To Brother
Brother to Brother was an American musical group founded in 1974 by Michael Burton, who was the lead singer and producer. The group emerged from the studio environment, chiefly consisting of talented session musicians, including Billy Jones, Frankie Prescott, and Yogi Horton. Their music is categorized within the funk and soul genres, reflecting the vibrant sound of that era.
Brother to Brother was most active in the mid-to-late 1970s, releasing key albums like In the Bottle (1974), Let Your Mind Be Free (1976), and Shades in Creation (1977) on Turbo Records, with a final album in 1980, leaving a mark on funk and soul music. Their sound is characterized by a combination of rich melodies and intricate rhythms, typical of funk music.
Their work is remembered for its contributions to the funk genre, featuring notable cuts that resonated with audiences and garnered critical acclaim
Their music, especially "In the Bottle," has been widely sampled in hip-hop, showing their lasting influence.
In The Bottle
Written-By – G. Heron
3:10
A2 Hey, What's That You Say
Written-By – Ineffie Woods
3:04
A3 Big Brother
Written-By – M. Burton, S. Robinson
3:31
A4 I Wish It Would Rain
Written-By – B. Strong, N. Whitfield
6:24
A5 Junkie
Written-By – M. Burton, S. Robinson
2:19
B1 Trespassing
Written-By – Ineffie Woods
3:37
B2 A Love Of My Own
Written-By – W.B.S.
3:38
B3 Mother Earth
Written-By – M. Burton, S. Robinson
4:50
B4 If He Can Do It (You Can Do It)
Written-By – W.B.S.
3:22
Label: Turbo Records – TU-7013
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1974
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Seventies Soul, Funk
Brother to Brother's 1974 album, In The Bottle, is a highly-regarded soul/funk gem, celebrated for its killer cover of Gil Scott-Heron's "The Bottle," featuring jazzy arrangements, funky grooves, and rich instrumentation by Wood Brass & Steel, making it a standout in the rare groove scene despite its simple look. Critics praise its full, soulful sound, excellent musicianship, and depth, with tracks like "Mother Earth" and the hit cover establishing the group as a major force in '70s R&B.
Their version of Gil Scott-Heron's "The Bottle" became an R&B hit, praised for its flanged vocals, electric piano, and flute, capturing the original's essence with a unique groove.
The album blends ensemble funk with jazz changes, reminiscent of contemporary groups but with a distinct, deep soul feel, featuring deep, anguished vocals from Michael Burton. A full sound is delivered by a 13-piece band, including Wood Brass & Steel, providing lush arrangements.
Considered their best work, it's seen as a classic of the era, with many tracks considered winners beyond the famous single. Though they had further success, this debut album remains their most iconic, praised for its enduring quality and rare groove status.
Overall Vibe: In The Bottle offers a complete, satisfying listen, with reviewers calling it "a monster record" and a "great lp front to back". It's a must-listen for fans of '70s funk, soul, and jazz fusion.