LOVE, PEACE & HAPPINESS - "Here 'Tis" (RCA 1972)

 

Just one out of several groups that are related to New Birth and producer Harvey Fuqua, formerly of The Moonglows. Ann Bogan, the female lead, and the Wilson brothers Melvin and Leslie released two albums under the name Love, Peace & Happiness in '71 & '72. Ann's vocals are wonderfully soulful in the tradition of Betty Wright and Patti Labelle. Her delivery on "Lonesome, Lonely & Alone", my choice track off their sophomore set, is from the Ultra Soul division. Ann Bogan, an amazing singer and once a Marvelette deserves far more recognition in my book. Enjoy!

STARPOINT - "It's So Delicious" (Elektra 1983)

Here's another trip down memory lane and a track that feels even better today - almost 30 years later! Yet another reason to reflect on how lucky you were if you - like me - were fortunate enough to discover this back in the day it was released. Unfortunately neither Renee Diggs nor Ernesto Phillips are with us anymore as they both passed away far to early around 2004/2005. But what we can appreciate at this very moment is the wonderful recordings they made under the guidance of producer Lionel Job. Their mid-paced ballads are something else and I've chosen "I Got The Love", which is 100 % goose bumps from first to last note. I had to play this twice at Bolivar last Friday - just couldn't get enough!

BOBBY GLOVER - "Bad Bobby Glover" (Columbia 1984)

Great memories as I've just dug this out of storage with a bunch of other fab records that seem to have matures like fine wine. I've always been a fan of the Zapp productions. Most people tend to think of them mainly for the funky floor fillers, but the soulful vibes that came out of the Troutman Sound Labs in Dayton, Ohio are unique in sound and production. "Happy" taken from Bobby Glover's only solo record is a classic in my book. In fact - the whole album is great - just grab it if you don't have it! If you thought the 80's lacked in quality, this will prove you're wrong. A timeless slab of soulful groove, and they just don't make 'em like this anymore. I played this in a bar on Friday and it felt just right.