Reviews (page 10 of 13)
Wasn’t a huge fan of their version of I Heard It Through The Grapevine, but everything else here is fantastic. Put horns in all music. Didn’t realize I really like The Temptations until now.
CLOUD NINE is an album carried **heavily** by two songs: the title track and "Runaway Child, Running Away". The rest of the album, meanwhile... I mean, to tackle those first, the songs from the fourth onward are just fine Temptations fare. Good, but nothing spectacular. Kind of underwhelming, honestly, in the face of its stand-outs. And, boy, that "I Heard It Through The Grapevine" cover sure does exist, dunnit? But "Cloud Nine" is a great piece of Sly inspired music, and "Runaway Child, Running Away" is a damn sprawling epic work of psychdelic soul that helped pave the way for their daminger sprawlinger epicer "Papa Was A Rollin' Stone". It's a trip and a half, I tell you what. The album's absolutely worth hearing alone jusr for those two. And, y'know, based on those songs merits I wanted to say that elevated this album as a whole to a 4. But, like everything else that aren't those songs are so "it's fine" that I'm really feeling it's more a 3. This isn't an INNERVISIONS and "Living In The City" or HUNKY DORY and "Life On Mars?" case here, y'know? So anyway, that was my group's 100th album. A bit of a squib for the only 100th album we're ever gonna get, but there's always hope our next milestones are better bangs.
Asides from Runaway Child, Running Wild, this is just your average Motown Hitsville record with the usual shitty 60s "Stereo" mix.
Incredibly, it’s a 5. Yes, the last 7 tracks of this album are a sort of stereotypical doo-wop affair reminiscent of “My Girl” more than the funk-infused and experimental first 3 tracks, but I love both sides of it equally. I think the doo-wop is just incredibly smooth, and even though it’s all just love songs, it manages to blend in that sort of late 50s/early 60s feel with a lot of their contemporaries of the era in a way that makes it feel kinda fresh and nostalgic at the same time for 1969, when Beatlemania was surely still in full swing. Those first 3 tracks are still really cool; namely Cloud Nine & the 10-minute centerpiece that is Runaway Child, Running Wild; yes, it doesn’t need to be 10 minutes, but it fills its soundscape pretty well and it stays pretty engaging throughout, even if it plays it pretty safe the whole way through. I can’t really explain why it’s a 5, but I think there’s just something about this sound that clicked with me super well; I don’t think there’s a miss on this album in terms of easy listening, and everything here is just catchy as hell to me. I feel pretty good with a 5.
cool
sabrosito
Love, great voices, and love. 9/10
Funky muthr fukers
It’s a lovely smooth radio kind of album
Chill background music So much so I've forgotten what any of it sounded like
Just gold
More soul, personally I’m not huge into it, feels about the time which is great, wouldn’t throw it on personally. 2.4
listened 2x. 1.8/5
2024-04-07...
I almost gave this one a five because of the second track daaaamn is it groovy
could i write poetry to this? n
Groovy, def from a dif era
It’s got that psych funk sound of the post HDH, post 67 Motown. Not bad, but falls off a bit after the first half.
Nothing special, no disrespect to these gentlemen
Not much to say, man. Wasn’t impressed dude. Extra star because I’m having. A great morning with my baby
Not what I was expecting Really good with an edge to the songs that I was not ready for. Thought it would be twee easy lounge room songs
Runaway child was good. I didnt love anything else
I like the first half of this album much better than the second. The first half is like a cool blend of motown and funk, it's great. The second side is pretty much a straightforward motown record. Not bad but nothing really stands out to me. I'd like to give it more but 3/5 is where it lands.
Loved them when I was a kid. Love this now!
Hou normaal wel van soul, maar vond een heel album hiervan niet heel bijzonder
Hoeveel uitvoeringen van I Heard it through the grapevine zijn er Temptations altijd wel goed Kende dit album ook nie lekker kalme start van de dag en mooie liedjes
decent. groovy. 3/5
Fine background funk / Motown.
I enjoyed the title track Cloud Nine the most. I hadn’t listened to the groovier The Temptation songs before and I was grooving. At I Heard It Through the Grapevine, it started to lose me a bit- it was not my favorite version but definitely a take so I could appreciate it. Runaway Child, Running Wild has some vocal moments that I find really intriguing like the “I want my mama” cry blending into the groovy sound. I didn’t love the song but definitely stood out to me as an experiment. The latter half of the album was less standout and I kept forgetting what I listened to. Last I’ll say I like the album art and how it fits the record. Solid
WTH were they thinking with Runaway Child, Running Wild? I can't even put into words how I feel about having a crying child wailing for their mother embedded in a song. I had to immediately skip to the next song. Jesus. Immediate down vote for that. Fuck.
Ein wenig psychedelischer Motown.
Legit Motown sound. 3.2
Pretty good. “Runaway Child, Running Wild” took me by surprise.
Great Motown sound.
It was so fun
Pretty nice funk, but nothing stood out too much.
That’s another one listened from the legendary Mr Young
How do you even pick a Temptations album for this list? They have at least 8 four to five star albums in their catalog. As always their vocals are excellent. Solid.
Not sure why my previous rating didn't save. It might have been my most insightful yet. The psychedelic soul is good, but maybe a bit too much for me.
There are two tales here. Cloud Nine is weirdly psychedelic/funky, Grapevine is a troubling cover, and Run Away Child is a bit overdone (I think there was a "help me momma" in the middle that was quite a bit of a head scratcher. Then the album becomes a bit what you expect... 7 straight, sweet, short motown pop soul. Though none of them are super memorable, they are all solid.
It was a good listen, of course, although nothing really caught me. I probably wouldn’t put on again..
Not their best effort, but its got that Motown groove you just can't get anywhere else.
Such a great record. Never heard The Temptations for a full LP's length. "Runaway Child, Running Wild" feels so wonderfully out of place for a 60s record, running nine minutes in an album full of tracks that otherwise average well under three minutes. Lush harmonies and arrangements, brilliant grooves.
A fine example of '60s soul, though a touch on the repetitive side. A couple tracks got mighty funky though.
Ääh, vähän tuommoista hömppä soul musiikkia. Vokaalit hiukan ärsyttäviä ja se itkevän lapsen imitointi oli ihan kauheata.
Nice Fav songs: Why did she have to leave me Don't let him take your love from me :D
2 star. Hits and misses.
Decent album but not their best
Wow....soooooo good. Timeless and of its era at the same time. The title track blew me away- it was the funkiest tune I have ever heard them do. This amazing harmonies and the incredible arrangements. Beyond.
Was very nice and sexy and also you are all pedophiles
Ain't no Herbie Hancock, but pretty good for cooking or moving through the world
A bit more funky than I'm used to from The Temptations as they move into the 70s. I like it a lot.
Such a good group. Not my favourite version of I Heard It Through The Grapevine, but it fits their style. I was not expecting to hear a grown man cry for his mommy. Maybe they should have let a child do that.
I liked this. It totally sounded like the Temptations, and the production on it is really funky. Standout track for me was Cloud Nine. Marvin Gaye’s ‘Grapevine’ is preferable to me, though.
Funky delicious
stop
Fathers of groove.
Well this was a treat, it was great to switch up the vibe with these oldies. I loved it. It was hard NOT to hear sounds from some of their other more popular songs, like My Girl, Aint no Mountain High enough etc. 5 stars
Thought it was good, I’ve always like this style of music as a sort of background ambience, but not something I’d go out of my way to listen to
pretty good album, enjoyed it
just not my kind of music, not bad tho
Each song feels bubbly and fresh, despite its age and no idea is overdone in the short runtime
Legendary group with great musicians behind them. Good quality songs but hard to maintain there best
Title track saves the day…rest is ok. A couple more classics on the horizon for the Temps but they were nearing the end. Big part of music history.
I really enjoyed this album. Sent me on a journey through more of their stuff and artists like them
The Temptations! Out with the more soulful Motown from the likes of the four tops or the miracles and IN with this slice of dirty political funk and soul 🤘🏽
All blended into one. There wasn't really a single standout track
Upbeat throughout as you’d expect from a classic soul album. I’m sure this was one of the forerunners in the genre but I can’t help think it all just blends into one.
Starts strong, then every track melds into one, pretty forgettable stuff.
funky beats, I like "don't let him take you love from me"
Liked the music, listening with headphones I was a bit dissapointed with the mix as every track had the same vocal drum instrument pans so it became a little predictable sonically
I would guess that this is not the only Temptations album that will be on this list. If that’s the case, then I’m plenty happy to start with this one that is more “Papa Was a Rolling Stone” than it is “My Girl.” Fun, funky, and showing off not only the depth of their sound, but of Motown Records as well. Their take on “I Heard it through the Grapevine” is fantastic. Enjoyed the whole thing as much as I enjoyed having the whole weekend to listen.
Not really into R&B, but I was able to appreciate the funk aspects of the songs. Of course the vocals are great. I support long songs, but Runaway Child is too long for what it is imo.
Clasico de la Motown
Some nice easy listening music here. Not a lot of funk and flash but a lot class.
A good album, I liked Runaway Child, Running Wild and I Need Your Lovin' the best.
6/10 This is fun. 3/7/2024
Some serious feel good tunes on this jawn - damn near a fiver (not gonna just be throwing those out)
The first half of this album is pure fire! Funky, soulful, rocking even. A perfect first side of an album. It does tail off a little for me on the second side...BUT the consistently bad ass bass and strong vocal harmonies and passion of the vocals keep it fresh for me. A strong album. Favorite tracks: Cloud Nine, I Heard It Through the Grapevine, Runaway Child, Running Wild, I Need Your Lovin'.
I was looking forward to this one for some reason, but it disappointed me. Kind of boring - not unpleasant but didn't interest me as much as I expected.
B- Cloud Nine 3 I Heard It Through The Grapevine 3 Run Away Child, Running Wild 3 Love Is A Hurtin' Thing 4 Hey Girl 4 Why Did She Have To Leave Me (Why Did She Have To Go) 3 I Need Your Lovin' 3 Don't Let Him Take Your Love From Me 3 I Gotta Find A Way (To Get You Back) 3 Gonna Keep On Tryin' Till I Win Your Love 3 I expected way more. C'mon, fellas!!
Очень средний скучный соул.
First soul album I've heard in full, pretty good, but not my favourite. 7/10 Fav song : Runaway Child, Running Wild
Nothing special
Definitely a tale of two halves. The first half is different, experimental, and awesome. The second half is some classic motown, which just doesn't hit as good after the first half. Wishing the first half was more, or by itself.
smooth and warm. OK
Finally something that is more up to my alley. The vocal harmonies here? Exquisite. The production? Great for its time. I’ve heard of more complex music in my life but the passion, the attitude, the delivery? More than makes up for it. Also, soul singers made 10 minute songs before those progressive rockers ever did!
Liked the funky almost shaft like blacksploitation songs on the first half of the album as well as the more old school stuff on the second.
Really fun. Great sound.
This was a nice listen, there's something about older albums like this that feel so nostalgic.. even though they're decades older than me.
bueno 3,5
Skön soulig funk, najs.
Gillade denna snäppet mer än All directions, även om den saknar superhits.
Motown! Not the classic versions/songs that I remember from the radio. But still has that sound that can lift spirits.
Classic motow
totalnie nie moj styl, master tez jest dziwny i zle sie tego slucha, moze na starym gramofonie by to bylo przyjemne
Wish I had the time to listen more to it!
Loved this album. Makes you want to do some slow dancing.
Aight
Fairly solid but no real standouts.
Very solid album, very funky. Enjoyed every song but nothing complete wowed me. An amazing group.
Favorite Tracks: Runaway Child, Running Wild Cloud Nine I Heard It Through The Grapevine
Not great, kind of forgettable. 2.8
This was totally fine but it really didn’t scratch that 60s soul itch for me. I’m sure this is seminal to Motown and black music and the 60s music scene but I guess I just didn’t find it quite as fun as Smokey Robinson or Barbara Lewis. By no means a bad album I can’t stress that enough.
Fun little album
2/22/24
Produced incredibly. Stunning vocals. Track 2- beautiful pop ballad Track 3- great emotions. Musical break very good Very smooth listening experience. Track 5- mmmm Side two so far, very poppy and sweet 8- fucking funky bass Thank you for the recommendation.
I had no idea The Temptations ventured into this style of music. Interesting listen
Helt udemærket soul album. Klart flere lyt værd
I was excited when I saw the album, but it just didn’t connect. Very dated.
Not my favorite genre. They have good songs though. Didn’t love.
good shit, soul time
9/10 songs saved
I would have never listened to this if it wasn’t for this project. Pleasantly surprised. Top 3 were Cloud Nine, Love is a Hurtin’ Thing, and Hey Girl. Album cover looks like the guys are standing on a giant steak.
Fantastic album. Love the soul roots. Need to buy the vinyl !
Good ole music! Enjoyed it...some of the songs are redone...ie Marvin Gaye.... Heard it through the Grapevine!...I like his version better. Nice easy listening....good album.
Maybe it's just because it was Friday but I felt myself grooving along to this album at times, then the random "I want my momma"s started and threw me off.
The Temptations, classic R&B but this album was just ok for me
Good
Liked it more than I thought I would.
Really enjoyed running to this one. Groovy as hell. Haven't heard a ton of 9 minute motown songs.
Well worth a listen or two. Perhaps could be improved by trimming down runaway child to about half the length and remove the faux crying from the track? Vocalists in the group are an odd mix - lead singer is great - this variability is most jarring in Love is a Hurtin Thing. A prolific band with longevity - would be interested to know if this indeed the definitive work to listen to if dipping in.
This was good, but not as good as the previous one we listened to in the challenge. It was great to listen to as I chipped away at my work. Funky Friday!
I enjoyed this one more than the previous Temptations album - maybe I was feeling a bit more funky today? CCRs heard it through the grapevine still wins for me though - just sayin
When this album was released I would have avoided it like the plague. Did not like the Motown, soul, funk sound at all. But you could not avoid it as it was played almost exclusively in clubs and across the radio at the time. So indirectly it became part of the soundtrack of my life from that particular time. Listening to this album there are moments where the music takes me back to my youth. Music should evoke memories so in that respect this album in parts fulfills that purpose but now older I can begin to appreciate the musical value of this type of music. Still don’t like it personally but the millions who do cannot be wrong I suppose.
Oldie goodie
Who doesn't love the Temptations sound? Although I always appreciate their history and everything they've brought, I didn't think this album was anything special or exciting.
Very Motown, harmonizing and formulaic in the structure. Even songs that aren't happy have a cheery, harmonizing sound, which is such a strange disconnect.
Wonderful
Это, типа, госпел джаз? Ладно, википедия пишет "прогрессив соул". Ну я как обычно в жанрах ничего не понимаю. Соул соулом, а мне как-то никак. Омерзения не испытываю, ничего не испытываю. Как бэкграунд для фикса багов сойдёт, три звезды.
An unfortunately somewhat weak beginning to the Temptations' foray into psychedelia; side A is relatively inconsequential fluff (with a confusing potential message about drug abuse?) and a rather poor cover of "I Heard it Through the Grapevine"; side B moves into more traditional Temptations material, though none of it particularly memorable. This LP doesn't hurt the ears, but it also doesn't inspire, with relatively weak stereo mixing and a lack of funk and oomph subsequent Temptations records would have.
Un disco ameno de escuchar, pero no se quedará en mi memoria seguro.
Strong first song, the rest are just okay.
nice n jazzy just not my style
not one of their better ones
Not bad, just not my thing.
nice!
I liked the back half a fair amount. I was not a fan of the funk sound of the first half though. And even the back half didn't reach the standards of great motown. Kind of a bummer really.
Decent in places
Cool
Pretty good album. The first few songs are pretty funky for a band I associate with doowop—I like it. The second half is a lot more of the more traditional stuff I was expecting, which is also pretty good. I’m more familiar with the earlier Temptations songs with the other lead singer. But the new guy has a cool rasp to his voice. It’s got a James Brown feel to it. The bass singer’s voice is also cool. I personally prefer the Marvin Gaye version of “I Heard It Through The Grapevine” but their version isn’t bad. A couple things I didn’t enjoy about the album—the falsetto guy’s voice gets very grating. Some of my favorite singers are famous for their falsetto, but this dude sounds like a whinier child Michael Jackson. The other issue I had is “Runaway Child, Running Wild” going for 9:30–completely unnecessary. I was crying for my mama by the end. I’d probably pick a few tracks rather than listen to the full album again, but I wouldn’t turn it off if it came on.
A fine psych soul release led by perfect singles.
Enjoyable. Favourite track: Runaway Child, Running Wild.
Old
I love The Temptations and lean toward the funk over the soul even though both are good. I had never listened to a complete Temptations album prior and while I liked it there were some surprises. I didn’t completely love this version of Heard it Through the Grapevine - surprising, right? Some tunes left me hungering for a tastier baseline that what it delivered. Other tunes were the perfect thing for grooving in my kitchen while cooking. A true mixed bag.
Bot too many outstanding tracks, but it's the Temptations.
Vibe
Decent listen
This is an absolute bop of an album. I wasn't sure if I'd like the last half since it started to have break up sings but it was a great listen.
This is one of those unfortunate albums that hits extra hard on track 1 with an incredible track, and then gets worse and worse as the album goes on. I think Runaway Child, Running Wild has a really neat vibe and concept, but unfortunately outside the first 3 tracks, this was a somewhat forgettable album. Not the Temptations best for sure.
Good soul album. Doesn’t have many of their big songs, but still a good one. 3/5 Might listen again
Fun, warm, groovy
I heard it through the grapevine. Iconic. For the quality of the song and its placement in the 80s California Raisins commercial.
Yeah, these guys are the real deal.
Motown did know how to make their art 👌🏼
I wonder if they were the NWA of the 60's
Motowns finest
Meh
Shout out Jenny Hayden
Won’t be coming back to it
Silky smooth.
Damn what a cohesive vocal unit. A nice newer iteration of the temptations that isn’t just “oooohh ahhh I like this girl.” Also the deep bassy baritone guy popping in every once in a while cracked me up. Sounded like a cartoon charecter
It's fine, comfortable, pleasant, but doesn't feel groundbreaking.
This was fine, but not my jam.
I enjoy this era of soul, when it has a cinematic feel.
Really good, what you'd expect from the Temptations, great soul sound
Overall good songs. Not something I'm likely to actively choose to listen to but still good.
Another album by The Temptations - the second in the 36 albums so far. I've played it three or four times this morning. This is a pleasant enough record to listen to, but I'm not very clear what elevates this to the 1001 records list. Perhaps if I knew more about soul music I'd see some significance that escapes me. 3/5
Chill af to say it in simple terms. Never heard of this album or the band before being given this album to listen to. But it sounds instantly familiar and sounds like I have grown up with it. Very disappointed this isn't talked about that much online. They have sold tens of millions of albums across the world. Seems like one of those groups who have been left out of this modern age of music discourse. This age of music discourse is very meme-able with the same albums being brought up over and over again and people being pretentious. And "Cloud Nine" doesn't fit into those molds being made by the community. Is it a masterpiece? No, I wouldn't say so; it's missing the special touch or oomph factor even though it doesn't have any bad tracks. But it is still at this point a hidden gem. I hate using that word but I feel that it is necessary for this description.
Pleasant but unremarkable.
This is not what I expected before starting this album. Coming from The Temptations, I am surprised to prefer the funkier, 70s style on this album verses the sound they are more famous for.
R&B; soul; funk; progressive soul; psychedelic soul Temptations became the definitive vocal group of the 1960s. One of Motowns most elastic acts. Motown: recording company founded by Berry Gordy, Jr., in Detroit, Michigan, U.S., in January 1959 that became one of the most successful Black-owned businesses and one of the most influential independent record companies in American history. The company gave its name to the hugely popular style of soul music that it created. Notes: To me it all sounds similar. It can be vibey and I liked the messages and relatability. Has a very classic sound. The album itself isn't something I'll listen to but I will check out more songs from the Temptations.
N/A
This album was pretty fun! Nothing earth-shattering, but I enjoyed my time with it. Thankfully it was succinct, which is always a bonus for me. Great harmonies and flow with these guys. Not my favorite style of music, but I liked it for what it was. Fav tracks: Love Is A Hurtin' Thing, Why Did She Have To Leave Me (Why Did She Have To Go)
I like The Temptations but feel like I've primarily listened to singles/compilation albums. I liked the album, but hard to compare to a "Best Of"
I should listen again
pleasant enough
The Temptations were the classic Motown sound! This album showcased their incredible talent and has all the vibes!
Pretty fun listen
Nice album overall. Definitely a good groove but I did not like their version of I heard it through the grapevine. Overall it’s good, chill background music.
Appreciate all that The Temptations have brought to modern music - this album was a one-and-done for me, though. Standouts: Cloud Nine, I Heard It Through the Grapevine
this album honestly was boring. i personally didn’t like this. the second half of the album had some groove to it but other than that there was one 9 minute long song and every other song was short and didn’t stick out
A pleasant, if unremarkable, listen
Great tunes..loved the tempations always
Pleasant stroll down memory lane albeit some of the songs felt quite dated rather than nostalgic. Would listen to it again.
Best R&B from Mo'town.
Uskomatonta soitantaa.. Jos unknown bändi incredible find.. mutta the temptaatiothan se siinä eli alenee arvosana.. known band
I was expecting to like this more. Like, a lot more. I know The Temptations are iconic, but is just sounds like a group of really good solo singers who try to support each other when the others have a solo. What bothered me most at first was realizing there was some really bad mic technique in the studio. The singer pulls back from the microphone on the title track “Cloud Nine” to reveal the size of the untreated room. At first, I loved the vulnerability of it, but then I started realizing some of the background vocals were pretty poorly arranged as if the group were a mediocre a cappella group who didn’t know how to around parts. Some of the musicians on the track absolutely slap, but to me the good was overshadowed by lifeless lines of melody and soulless solos that sound like they are there just to have sound playing in the same key. This just isn’t it. I can’t believe I am rating Taylor Swift higher than this….
One word: Classic
Amazing record. I think I listened through at least 5 times
They sure can sing. Pretty groovy. Favorite track was I heard it through the grapevine.
Просто не мій смак
Tracks 1 and 3 are insanely good... absolute gold. The rest of the album is quite good. Too romantic for my taste, but vocals and instruments are on point. Bass is fucking fire throughout. Turns out its James Jamerson.
It doesn’t get any better than old-school Motown.
Not much to say about the temptations other than one of the best Motown bands. They did a couple covers on this album but all in all it’s still really good. A strong yet funky album showed how versatile this group was. 7.5/10
The funkier songs are really fun, but overall this doesn’t stand out as something to revisit.
Never heard this version of heard it through the grapevine
Amazing harmonies/melodies, enjoyed most the album.
Herrlicher Motown-Sound. Soulig und entspannend
Very same-y sounding to me
None of their big hits, but classic Temptations.
Lyrics/Vocals- 5/5 Instrumentals- 5/5 Vibes-6/5 Overall 5/5 I absolutely love the Temptations and this album was amazing. Everything about it was just great, I genuinely cannot think of much else to say because of how much I enjoyed this.
Nice sound nice groove but nothing stand out
Funky. Easy to listen to. I liked it.
Beautiful soul Melodies, amazing harmonies. Possibly an over looked classic.
really gorgeous sounding record, still prefer slits cover of grapevine tho
Lots of classics. Took me back.
It's a good album, but I don't think I like Motown as much as I thought.
What a great album! We found new love for The Temptations - this one is early funk in the making.
This record is a how to manual of how to get your woman back. Or how to take one away from someone else. Most of the record is about that except for the title track, which is about getting stoned. So, a good record.
Enjoyed listening to this one
Great harmonized melodies, and some funky funky bass lines!
Reasonably good! Some solid tunes, raw sound, soulful.
Funky!
“cloud nine” and “runaway child, running wild” were definitely the highlights of the album for me. truly impressed me with their honest lyricism and experimental sound. and while i enjoyed the rest of the album, i wished it took more risks. the love songs were beautiful and filled with gorgeous harmonies but kinda blended together in the end
very good
This is my second Temptations album to review, and side one of this album was similar to All Directions, and for that reason, I enjoyed side one more than side two. I thought the soul sound and lyrical content were really well executed. I enjoyed that the songs on side one were a direct contradiction of the album's title; the subject matter of those first three tracks is anything but 'cloud nine.' Poverty, domestic abuse, and competing for survival and limited resources are pretty much hell, but The Temptations do an excellent job of making those ugly lyrics sound beautiful. I didn't really care for their version of "I Heard It Through the Grapevine, but it did suit their style and the overall sound of the album. "Runaway Child, Running Wild" was a great way to close side one, and it's funky sounds and epic storytelling are hallmarks of what I enjoy in soul music. The lyrics painted a panicked scene, and the music really helped to add to that feeling and move the lyrical story forward. Musically, I really enjoyed the great bass lines and funky guitar playing on side one. The second side of the album was a hard left turn, and featured the type of romantic pop songs that I think of when I think of The Temptations. These songs weren't bad, but they were just kind of boring and shallow when compared to the first side of the album. The vocals and arrangements were still great, but it just lacked that soul punch that was present on the first side. Overall, this album was fine. The serious soul songs on side one were the star of the show here, while side two was filled with generic Motown pop songs. If I'm in the mood for some soul, I think I'll stick with Isaac Hayes or Marvin Gaye.
Groovy little album. Features hit, "I Heard It Through The Grapevine"
A quintet of voices with a smooth style that aged like fine wine
When the setting is right, say in a Tarantino movie, I can appreciate some soul music. I don’t go out of my way to actively listen to some, though. However, this album I did not like. Sure, the vocals and a lot of the instrumentation is really good. Also, I like the vibe of the music. What I didn’t like at all, were the songs. There was not one single memorable song on this album. Not one song I remember after listening to it. I didn’t even notice that the album had started over
Mist 6
cloud eight
Money, sex, pride, envy, lust. These are the 5 temptations Satan uses to conquer man. Money / Drugs (Cloud Nine) Envy (Through the Grapevine) and most other songs... Lust (I Need Your Lovin') The other two are missing here. Unfortunately none of these songs have an ounce of sexiness, and as for pride.. well considering how every song is about simping for a girl they lost, or begging a girl not to leave them, leads me to think having too much pride is not a problem for these boys. Three temptations out of five. ⛧⛧⛧
I like their old songs better.
Very danceable, into this one.
Used to quite like these when I was younger but I think I just stuck to their hits. Only recognised a couple off this. Most of this sort of passed me by in the way that this genre can often do: not bad, excellent vocals and incredible melodies, but nothing that really caught my ear. Ive said this before but growing up on Motown, then having an obsession with it in my early 20s has probably swayed me away form certain parts of it. I just think I over did it. This album sums it up for me: I know I wouldve once loved it, and I can see how it is a great record, but right now it just ain’t doing it for me! 2.5 rounded up
Pleasant funky soul, can't say the genre or band particularly so anything for me though. Don't know if this is the original heard it through the grapevine but it's definitely not the best. Running out of ways to say I'm ambivalent about this sort of music but I still am, 2.5.
I didn't really enjoy this. Felt dated and overly long despite being a short album.
This was fairly pleasant but overall just okay. The album goes by quick enough that it didn't overstay its welcome. Although there isn't anything compelling enough to revisit this.
This didn't do much for me. Thought the temptations had a few songs I would recognise, none were here though . I didn't hate it, but never choosing to listen to it
Classic!
Lots of psychedelia, interesting stuff!
This is the Temptations' eighth studio album. This group of songs was influenced by the psychedelic soul that Sly and the Family Stone had made popular. These songs were a noticeable step from their previous efforts, which focused on romantic ballads. The change was successful, and this album won a Grammy. The Temptation already had a successful career, and this collection of great tracks accelerated their success.
Nice, one track I really liked. I see the transition into funk and think there's a really interesting band in the temptations that I'd like to know more about. Some of the harmonies are show stoppers
Love the vibe of the first song already. Very funky indeed. Like that there are different vocals. It was fine, I enjoyed it, just not my genre I guess. Second song has great background vocals. Also the main singer's voice is remarkable. Eddie has a listenable voice, but Dennis - genre-appropriate. Third song is 9 minutes? What do they have to say that much. Love the weird start. The deep voice guy should sing more. I love the chaos they create with their voices all together. I feel like the longness of the song is unnecessary, also the cry-singing was not good for my ears. 4th song is sad, was started by the deep voiced guy(not sure), continued with the soft voice one(worst). Album has a beach vibe, makes me relaxed and stuff, but not worth it overall(again not my genre so). 5th song has the same instrumentals in the background, I must say that I love that it's different from the modern bass beats. I haven't mentioned any meanings(i usually do), because there's not much to it, mostly about love, though First song might have been about drugs. 6th has exactly same vibe, Bob Marley vibe actually. Theme is love as I hear it. Nothing unique to me. 7th song and no deep voiced guy, not good. I'm bored, but these are not the songs I should be deep-dive listening to so it's expected, liking the vibe just, it's not it. 8th song has again great background vocals, best part in the song probably. 9th has am amazing start, going basic after. I do not like his voice, can't blame myself. 10th and last song, I have to say I like the way he says "woo". The trumpet is nice to hear also. It's permanent wave, no bridge, no different chorus, or beat change, just the same vibe, I get why people like this but I do not. Sadly this is my first 1 star album, vibe was okay, but too same, I low-key get why this album is here, it's just not here for me.
Love these harmonies.
Fantastic dinner making music. Accompanied our pizza crafting and gin evening.
Themes of love, growing up, drugs, losing love, reconcilliation in love, and winning love back. Just a classic album. A great representation of the the plethora of awesome acts Motown had to offer, this album was fun cover to cover.
I really thought I was gonna love this… but… I dunno, it didn’t do it for me
I haven't heard a lot of these songs before. They are pretty good, I'd listen to them if I was in the right mood.
Average
Like the title track, Cloud Nine. Also, Runaway Child, Running Wild with wah wah and fuzz guitars. I love the bass tone on I Need Your Lovin'. It's a really clean-sounding, funky Motown soul record.
some good old songs .
It was good...but really nothing I would recommend to over any of there other albums.
Funky, groovy.
Rad!
Good for music whilst doing other chores, some standout songs but I wouldn’t sit through all of them if I was listening to music as my main activity.
Great percussion. Fun jam band elements that were unexpected.
LOVED this album. I've always been a fan of The Temptations, and this was a great reminder of why I have always loved them!
Love it
good, but also not in a good mood today
Refreshing. Very different from what I usually listen to.
Pas mon genre musical, écoutable en arrière plan, bon album.
some classics - forgot that they did the original version of "heard it through the grapevine"...so different than Gaye's version.
i already like this one better than the last.
Allright
Flat one.
Not my thing.
Good album of Motown style music
loved the funky vibe
Great. I know it well.
Solid, fun album. A bit funkier than I expected. I particularly enjoyed the title track. I will listen again, and I now have a greater appreciation for The Temptations.
Easy listening
Mit Kopfhören nervt das LMR-Signal. Orchester voll L, Schlagzeug voll R, Klavier voll R, Sänger M. Im Auto klingt es abgestimmter Stimmen brilliant.
This was alright but nothing amazing.
4.0.
Interesting mix of the sparkly shirt and tight harmony era with the "gimme some more brass FUNK-era". I know next to nothing about the influence, but if you tell me it was BIG, then I'll accept that. Solid 6/10 - funky.
Loved how this album mixes the funky psychedelic sound they began developing on Side 1, but then returns to their classic style on Side 2. They may not be stylistically aligned, but it shows the versatility of the group and the broad vocal talents and excellent songwriting. Didn’t realize this was the first album without David Ruffin, but Dennis Edwards is a respectable replacement and carries the group through this fantastic album. It’s not a perfect outing, but it’s definitely a strong contender for the best album in their catalog.
Didn’t expect such a funk fest. Pleasantly surprised 3.2
Good background but hardly an album when they didn’t write it.
I know this had to be influential, but it didn’t really do it for me.
Absolutely enjoyed every second of this album
tava gostando mas esqueci de terminar entao 3
Good, I want to skip multiple songs tho
Some light hearted tunes, and some dark subject matter. Great voices but not what I would seek out
со со
Very nice abum, but it's not exactly my style...
starts out so strong through the first three tracks, and then just kind of... keeps going
I dig it! Unfortunately I don’t have much else to say on it.
Un muy buen álbum de R&B, con interpretaciones interesantes y composiciones aún mejores. Las armonías vocales que decoran el LP con tintes de Doo-Whop, hacen de esta pieza un trabajo que logra sonar fresco y clásico al mismo tiempo.
Straight up good vibes. Love it.
Ood, the production on this is a bit rough
alright
Dude what!?
In almost 35 minutes The Temptations lead us into a powerful sound of the late 60s and early 70s in pure funky rock.
Super weird cover of heard it through the grapevine. Overall a bit too slow and too falsetto for my liking
Listened to it three times!
Temptations first foray into the funk-psychedelic soul and excelling. This album also told the world and David Ruffin that they can not only do well with out him but can reach new musical heights. This is one of 2 temptations albums that I own and for good measure. Psych-soul is one of my favorite genres. Cloud 9 is great but Runaway Child should have gone on forever and I would have been okay with that. None of the other tracks really lean into the psych-soul angle and I wish they did but the remainder of the album is a pleasant listen and what you'd expect of a Temptations album.
Temptations are always a great experience. Love. Thus album has iconic hits but a few misses so 4 stars.
The times said to change and the Temptations got the memo. While it still sounds like your classic Temptations album, they’ve updated their style without sacrificing anything that made them special originally. Every track is enjoyable even if they do start to blend together. I don’t care, I’m having fun. 4/5
Silky, cool, delicious Motown music.
Æðislega skemmtileg
Þetta var ekkert spes. Leið smá eins og ég væri í 70's löggumynd. Alveg hægt að vinna við þetta en kítlar mig ekki. Flottur söngur og hljóðfæraleikur samt sem áður.
Gaman að fá smá soul með sýkadelíu blæ. Gott grúv og góður hljóðfæraleikur. Örugglega skemmtileg plata fyrir djassunnandi saxafónlögmenn Hefur greinilega þótt merkileg plata á sínum tíma úr því hún fékk Grammy verðlaun, en skildi svo sem ekki mikið eftir við hlustun í dagsins önn.
Altijd lekker als je met een open vizier zo'n album in duikt en na totaal zo'n 11 minuten funk begint er letterlijk een kind te jengelen om z'n mama. In principe is dat voor mij een startschot om te mogen ranten. Nu wil het toeval ook dat dat moment ongeveer het moment is dat het album inkakt. De eerste drie tracks (de A-kant) zijn namelijk de lekkere funky tracks. Daarna (de B-kant) wordt het meer een soort clichémuziek. Een soort Motown pre-rnb. 13 in een dozijn liedjes over de liefde en vrouwen die bij je weggaan. Het luistert wel makkelijk weg (op dat jengelkind na) en het is redelijk kort. Vandaar 3 sterren. Het kon allemaal een stuk erger.
I enjoyed this quite a bit. The random lesser known tunes were interesting and fun with good energy and emotive vocals. I gave it a second listen and was just as impressed. This album aged really well.
Good
Blast of the past
Thought I'd like it more, didn't hear any standout songs
This is a nice record and it's well made, there's just something that's not quite taking it to the next level for me. Some bigger hooks and memorable choruses maybe. It feels a bit paint by numbers perhaps.