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The Vibrations - Taking a new step - CMRCD572 -

Released on 21 October 2002

This like the Ben E King, previously reviewed comes out of the Mandala label in the early 70's. The Vibrations ended up there too, being long time veterans principally at Chicago's legendary Okeh label. They, that is James Johnson, Carl Fisher, Dave Govan, Carver Bunkern and Richard Owens, had their roots firmly in 50's doo wop recording for Chess Checker and Atlantic. Also recorded good material on Philly's Neptune. In the UK they are very well known in Northern Soul circles.

'Wind up Toy' is a bit of a ditty really, easy going, bit middle of the road, somehow reminds me of d'Don't worry be happy'!!!!

The best kind of tracks are the harder and funkier cuts like 'Ain't no greens in Harlem'. A kind of blaxploitation thing with amusing lyrics but good nonetheless.

From this more than acceptable track to the ridiculous, 'Run for your lives' is singalong soulless and ridiculous.

We now go from the ridiculous to the sublime, 'Take a step' is an ultra fine soul ballad, utilising the stylish harmonies steeped in doowop, that went walkabout on the previous track.

'Midnight Rider' is a driving soulful version of the Allman Brothers.

'Man overboard' and 'The Man' is an in demand pairing, issued as a single. Overboard is kind of Northern but more commercial than s often acceptable. More Billy Ocean than Surprise Party for baby. 'The man' is an excellent hard slab of funk. 'Silver Dollar' continues that theme.

'Whiskey Man' is a sweet soul ballad with some fine harmonies, while 'Bolder Green and Jones' is another of those forgettable tracks.

 Some great rare soul and funk in evidence but you will have to overlook some dud tracks.

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