1001 Albums Summary

I think I have as many praises as I have critiques for this album. At its core I think it is well crafted and particular ends on a high note. It doesn't run too long but I do think the self-titled track could have been cut down a bit. The tracks seem to follow the formula of introducing an instrumental hook or riff for a few bars and then having the vocals come in. I dont think its a bad choice given each track is entirely unique. Additionally the driving, cyclical quality of having a unique riff or rhythm forces the listener to find something new in the song to focus on. I really get the strokes comparisons, the focus and method of guitar playing on this album was very strange to me given the time the album was recorded. The band treads a lot of ground musically that other very very popular bands would take decades to touch. The songs sound very modern, in almost a creepy way, this is why it's hard for me to discount any of them. To me, this albums biggest sin is the vocals. They are distracting to me in a negative way, I wish it came across more endearing or Bowie-esque but there are good moments. Favorite track: Prove it Least favorite track: Friction

The presence and ability to entertain is seriously impressive. The audience response is immediate, throughout the record. I wasn't blown away by the quality of the songwriting, but I don't think that was the intended purpose. It is clear that the live album gives you a glimpse into the energy of a true live James Brown performance. It is interesting though to hear blues based music sung by a gospel singer. The backing band is so incredibly tight and they follow James Brown into his fast changes, songs go from emotional, romantic ballads to wailing, rocking, call and responses in the blink of an eye, and the band does not miss a note.