Pop Tics [Enhanced]

Pop Tics [Enhanced]

Editorial Reviews
Product Description
CD plus book. The beauty of multimedia is revealed here with this collection of happily fringe dwelling artists supplying new songs, corresponding artwork in the accompanying book which features webpages for each artist with related games/ web gimmicks and other surprizes. With Yoshinori Sunahara, Pop Tarts and many more from around the world. Plus a CD-ROM track by Eboy. 1999 release. Plastic digipak.

Tracks:

Reach Out I'll Be There
Standing In The Shadows Of Love
Bernadette
Ask The Lonely
Baby I Need Your Loving
Without The One You Love (Life's Not Worth While)
It's The Same Old Song
Loving You Is Sweeter Than Ever
I Can't Help Myself (Suger Pie, Honey Bunch)
Something About You
I Got A Feeling
I'm In A Different World
Walk Away Renee
What Is A Man
A Simple Game
Still Water (Love)
(It's The Way) Nature Planned It
It's All In The Game
You Keep Running Away
If You Don't Want My Love
7-Rooms Of Gloom
I'll Turn To Stone
Shake Me, Wake Me (When It's Over)
Sad Souvenirs
Yesterday's Dreams

Amazon.com

Cramming 25 songs onto a single CD, this set captures the Tops during their peak 1960s years, when they rode the pens of Holland, Dozier, and Holland to the top of the charts. Combining the writers' pop melodies, a gentle Motown groove, and Levi Stubbs' earthy lead vocals, the group landed 11 Top 40 singles by 1967, all of which are included on this compilation. Unfortunately, The Ultimate Collection omits later gems such as "Keeper of the Castle," "Ain't No Woman," and "When She Was My Girl," but that leaves room to delve into the unique partnership between the Tops and their songwriting triumvirate. --Marc Greilsamer

Customer Reviews:

Ultimate Four Tops.......2007-05-26

Another great Motown classic! This includes all of their hits and then some.

Let's Cruise the Boulevard!!!.......2007-03-12

Wonderful CD. Probably the greatest Motown groups ever. Great lyrics and expressions of love. My 23 yr old son even liked it. I'm surprised more current day artists havent redone some of these classics. Made me want to go cruise Bellflower Blvd in a 63 Chevy low-rider!!

Sound quality deserves something better... Good compilation anyway!.......2007-03-06

No Soul fan can say he/she has heard the best of Soul, without having this good compilation of Four Tops greatest hits. "Reach Out I'll be There", "Sugar Pie Honey Bunch" and other great hits from this excellent vocal group are included.

One of Motowns Best-Ever Groups!.......2006-05-02

The Four Tops were formed in Detroit, Michigan in 1953 though they never really struck lucky until they signed to Berry Gordys pioneering all-black record label, Tamla Motown Records, home to many legendary soul acts including Diana Ross, The Supremes, The Temptations, Marvin Gaye, The Isley Brothers, Stevie Wonder, Martha Reeves And The Vandellas, Gladys Knight and the Pips, Smokey Robinson and the Miracles, The Marvelettes and many, many more.

The Four Tops were just simply a KNOCKOUT! Lead singer Levi Stubbs rocketing vocal delivery was capable of such impressive, immense power and volume and were one of Motowns best male acts during the companys heyday in the swinging sixties.

The Four Tops, like Diana Ross and the Supremes, enjoyed an extensive and dynamic collaboration with the genius songwriting and production trio, Holland-Dozier-Holland. Holland-Dozier-Holland helped put Motown Records on the map by creating and defining that classic Motown sound of the 60's along with the legendary muscian team known as The Funk Brothers. The Four Tops enjoyed a river of classics through the duration of the 1960's with the most magical of these offerings recorded under the guidance of Holland-Dozier-Holland.

I Can't Help Myself, one of The Four Tops signature tunes, contained a hooky melody and lyrics that could appeal to both the spirited and the saccharine. Levi Stubbs inimitable and persuasive voice on this classic is just pure SOUL! I Can't Help Myself shot up the charts landing at No.1.

The follow up to I Can't Help Myself, the appropriately titled It's The Same Old Song admitedly lacked the initial immediacy of that track but still holds its own individual merits and became another classic to their credit.

In 1966 The Four Tops literally exploded onto the charts with the far more adventurous and highly ambitious Reach Out I'll Be There. Reach Out I'll Be There was haunting and atmospheric in its tone. Levi Stubbs puts in another phenomenal, breathtaking performance with his grittily earthy, soulful delivery seamlessly surfboarding along the tidal wave of musical arrangements that consists of flutes, oboes and tambourines. It also delivered The Four Tops their first real taste of big chart success in the U.K. In the U.S Reach Out I'll Be There became their second chart topper.

The Four Tops music was always dramatically orchestrated that lands somewhere between soul,r&b and pop. Their staggeringly impressive run of hits continued with the magnificent Standing In The Shadows Of Love where there diverse and unique blend of harmonies gel remarkably well together which adds to its dazzling, magical effect.

Bernadatte was yet another infectious classic with its masterpiece musical production and astounding delivery from Levi Stubbs but there is a far darker and more atmospheric mood on the chilly and haunting 7 Rooms Of Gloom. Stubbs' whips along the verses with utter conviction that's literally spine-tingling across the rollercoaster and stark musical arrangements.

Holland-Dozier-Holland swiftly left Motown Records in early 1968 after a bitter dispute over back royalty payments with Motown boss Berry Gordy (many of Motowns stars subsequently sued the company years later for claims of unpaid record royalties). The Motown sound was slowly dissolving after their departure and was virtually extinct by the early 70's following Motowns headquarters move from downtown Detroit to swinging L.A. As a result The Four Tops chart-action became erratic.

They did still manage to come up with some winners. Their divine, unique cover of The Left Bankes' Walk Away Renee, which is arguably far more effective than the origanal and mereley conveyed Levi Stubbs versatile vocal approach. Walk Away Renee commendably proved that Stubbs' unforgetable voice could be just as effective when working on ballads. Walk Away Renee may have been sombre in its tone though still had a touching quality.

Another excellent ballad from The Four Tops that emerged in the late 60's was another atmospheric number, Still Waters Run. This classic hit was a remarkably exhilirating masterpiece featuring an exuberant performance from Stubbs. Still Waters Run also captures Stubbs' at perharps his smoochiest.

It's All In The Game and If I Were A Carpenter both encapsulate that swinging Motown sound and both are of significant value to this collection. However by the early 70's their once unstoppable momentum was now sadly beginning to wear thin. The Four Tops fled from Motown Records in the early 70s and had a number of record deals that didn't amount to too much and gradually they faded from view (though enjoyed a few minor revivals in the 1980's).

To this day The Four Tops continue to sporadically perform on the customary golden oldies circuit but its their glorious, golden 1960's era for what they will always be remembered for. This compilation titled The Ultimate Collection guides you through these fabulous, ground-breaking classics and capture the group at their prime. The Four Tops - The Ultimate Collection is ESSENTIAL to any serious soul music collection!

You get what you pay for!.......2005-09-24

Great group, great cd, great value. This Cd has all the hits, its a must buy.

Average customer rating:

A Quality Compilation
1st cd was great
The Four Tops-50th Anniversary Anthology
Van's Review
Four Tops

50th Anniversary Anthology
The Four Tops
Manufacturer: Hip-O Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00016MSYE
Release Date: 2004-01-13

Tracks:

Baby I Need Your Loving
Without The One You Love (Life's Not Worthwhile)
Ask The Lonely
I Can't Help Myself (Sugar Pie Honey Bunch)
It's The Same Old Song
Something About You
Shake Me, Wake Me (When It's Over)
Loving You Is Sweeter Than Ever
Reach Out I'll Be There
Standing In The Shadows Of Love
Bernadette
I Got A Feeling
7-Rooms Of Gloom
I'll Turn To Stone
You Keep Running Away
Walk Away Renee (Alternate Mix)
If I Were A Carpenter
Yesterday's Dreams
I'm In A Different World
What Is A Man
Don't Let Him Take Your Love From Me (Stereo Single Mix)
It's All In The Game
Still Water (Love)
River Deep-Mountain High (Stereo Single Edit)
Just Seven Numbers (Can Straighten Out My Life)
In These Changing Times
MacArthur Park (Part II)

Tracks:

A Simple Game (U.K. Single Mix)
I Can't Quit Your Love
(It's The Way) Nature Planned It
Keeper Of The Castle
Ain't No Woman (Like The One I've Got)
Are You Man Enough
Sweet Understanding Love
I Just Can't Get You Out Of My Mind
One Chain Don't Make No Prison
Midnight Flower
Seven Lonely Nights
We All Gotta Stick Together
Catfish
H.E.L.P.
When She Was My Girl
Tonight I'm Gonna Love You All Over
I Believe In You And Me
Back To School Again
I Just Can't Walk Away
Mean Green Mother From Outer Space - Levi Stubbs And Chorus
Indestructible (7-Inch Extended Single)

Album Description

The Four Tops' musical passion captures your ear. Their overflowing joy catches your eye. Their four souls touch yours and you succumb. You smile broadly, sing along, sway your hips and arms from side to side, and you dance that "Four Tops boogaloo" forever. It's been 50 years since Renaldo (Obie) Benson, Abdul (Duke) Fakir, Lawrence Payton and Levi Stubbs first sang together at a weekend party in Detroit's North End in 1954. The party's host asked the four, each from a different group, to sing for the gathering. They liked the results and decided to make things permanent.

* 50 Years Of Hits and Counting.
* Two Career-Spanning CDs Featuring I CAN'T HELP MYSELF, REACH OUT I'LL BE THERE, BABY I NEED YOUR LOVING, WHEN SHE WAS MY GIRL, AIN'T NO WOMAN and Many More.
* Newly Remastered, Great-Sounding Mixes, New Essay and Photos from the Archives!

Customer Reviews:

A Quality Compilation.......2007-03-19

Even today, the Four Tops are one of the most recognizable groups. They've certainly come a long way since they were called the Four Aims in the mid-1950s. The problem comes when you are deciding which album to buy. If you're looking for a collection with all of their hits, this is the one. I purchased this album and was pleasantly surprised to listen to the string of hits included, and even the lesser-known songs.

Many compilations exist, but I doubt you'll find one that encompasses any more without springing for a box set. The quality of the sound in this release is amazing. This should definitely be the standard for future anthologies and compilations. This collection chronicles their entire career (minus their Christmas album) and has every hit you could ask for. Do yourself a favor and buy it today. You won't regret it.

1st cd was great.......2007-03-16

The 1st cd was great to listen to. Brought back memories. The 2nd cd had songs on it that I never heard and was probably a waste. Would not recommend purchasing.

The Four Tops-50th Anniversary Anthology .......2007-03-09

I really enjoy this CD because it has so many of the earlier hits.

Van's Review.......2007-01-20

This is the music I grew up with. Motown has many legendary performers and the 4 Tops are among the best. I was pleased with most of the tracks included on these cds, but there are some tracks which don't hit the high note, regardless you can't overlook hits like Keeper Of The Castle, Still Water (Love),Standing In The Shadows Of Love,It's All In The Game, etc.
This collection deserves much listening to!

Four Tops.......2006-11-10

I love the Four Tops and it's great to have all of this good music!!

Average customer rating:

Imperative
From Memphis With . . .
soul deep
Two classic songs
The Box Tops provide some groovy, feel-good '60s pop.

The Best of the Box Tops: Soul Deep
The Box Tops
Manufacturer: Arista
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000002VS1
Release Date: 1996-10-01

Tracks:

The Letter
Neon Rainbow
Happy Times
Cry Like A Baby
Fields Of Clover
Choo Choo Train
She Shot A Hole In My Soul
People Gonna Talk
I Met Her In Church
Sweet Cream Ladies, Forward March
Together
I Must Be The Devil
Soul Deep
I Shall Be Released
(The ) Happy Song
Turn On A Dream
I See Only Sunshine
You Keep Tightening Up On Me

Customer Reviews:

Imperative.......2007-06-06

This is the "whisky & cigs" period for Alex Chilton's vocals, a sound he abandoned as he aged (like Merlin he's going backward in time vocally...he'll die singing high register hillbilly bluegrass). Compare the vocals here to his post-Big Star "Bach's Bottom" work and his version of "Nobody's Fool" and few people would be able to identify him as the same singer.

The Stax "pop & soul" factory was in an odd passage of inspiration with The Box Tops, which it sadly had neither the management wherewithal, distribution, or vision to develop and refine. A pity, for the roots of something excellent are here, particularly in the established instantly recognizable hits this album collects.

Yet, following the slow arc of this pale firework, the fall to earth and implosion of Stax and The Box Tops gave birth the creativity and freedom that Chilton would latter profoundly offer in Big Star, his production of the Cramps, and his leadership as a low-fi and independent artist who has inspired and shaped basically anyone worth listening to since he started his musical career.

From Memphis With . . ........2006-09-12

You've heard "The Letter", of course, and "Cry Like A Baby". And you've probably heard "Soul Deep", perhaps without realizing it was the same guys (which it really wasn't, more about which in a second). There's even an outside chance you've heard "Sweet Cream Ladies, Forward March" (whom Sweet Cream Men adore, and who should "fabricate success for those who fail", if you catch the song's subtle drift). The Box Tops released four LPs and a slew of singles in their brief career and SOUL DEEP culls the highs and some lesser material for a very good overview. In other words, this is really all you need if you're interested. But it clocks in at only 50 minutes, which means one of two things: either the sponsoring label is being really chintzy, or The Box Tops just didn't have all that much really great material. Based on what I hear here, I suspect the latter. Even the four Chilton originals are somewhat less than impressive; keeping to form they sound pretty much de rigueur with the rest of the material and don't even begin to hint at what he'd do with Big Star (I imagine they Powers That Were made sure of that). Speaking of which - - The Box Tops were pretty much a fiction, at least in the studio. The "band" was actually just Chilton with house musicians. So who chose to cover Dylan's "I Shall Be Released" so lugubriously? It's the nadir of the collection and its inclusion bogs down the latter half - - particularly after highlights as high as "She Shot A Hole In My Soul" and "Sweet Cream Ladies", who should think what they're providing and whom Puritans ignore. Chilton didn't write that one, by the way.

soul deep.......2005-01-29

the best of the 60's group the box tops. a nice blend of soulful elements. if you like booker t. and the mg's ( green onions ) or early 70's staple singers ( i'll take you there and respect yourself ) then your sure to like this. the box tops were around from '67 - '69. the top 50 reviewer before, pd harris wrote, the only hits they had was the letter and cry like a baby, when in fact they had a couple more as well, 67's neon rainbow and '69's soul deep that did chart here in the states. a great collection by one of the great band's of the 60's. i give it 5 stars, so grab yourself a copy today.

Two classic songs.......2004-05-04

The Box tops are best remembered for The letter and (to a lesser extent) Cry like a baby but there is more to their music than those two classics. Their music is deceptively simple soul-pop. Their lead singer, Alex Chilton, was just 16 when they recorded The letter. He left the group, still only 19, and had some domestic success with Big star - a group that didn't chart in Britain.

The letter, their debut single, was an American number one hit and also made the UK top ten. Cry like a baby, their only other American top ten hit, was also their only other UK top twenty hit. They had eight other American hits of which Soul deep was the only one to chart in Britain. Of the others, I particularly like Neon rainbow. These four tracks are the most notable, though it is worth mentioning Sweet cream ladies forward march (in praise of prostitutes - surely they're not serious?) and You keep tightening up on me (not a hit but maybe it would have been had it come earlier in the career).

This is an interesting collection of their best music. If you enjoy sixties soul-pop, you may wish to add this to your collection.

The Box Tops provide some groovy, feel-good '60s pop........2003-01-31

One typical '60s music fan would think that a group like the Box Tops would put out a lot of good songs, many of which were minor hits, but I'm telling you, all of these songs make you feel terrific all over. From the short-lasting #1 song "The Letter", which was the band's trademark song and you can see why is because it is on every '60s music collection, to their 1970 single "You Keep Tightening Up On Me." "Neon Rainbow" is one song that will most likely stick in your head with is catchy lyrics and teh way the instruments are played and especially young Alex Chilton's rough, gravelly and one of the most famous voices of '60s music. I also enjoyed "Fields of Clover" with its psychadelic-sounding G-note on the organ at the beginning and the jumpy beat throughout. "Choo Choo Train" is one marvelous classic that will have you dancing within no time. "I Met Her In Church" is another great one that will have you shouting "Hallelujah!" soon. "Soul Deep", the title track of this album, is delightful and upbeat! Your '60s collection isn't complete without this great Box Tops compilation that provides a small sample of what the era was all about...from a great-sounding group that could have been around longer.

20th Century Masters - The Millennium Collection: The Best of The Four Tops

Average customer rating:

Nostalgic!
The Millennium Collection: The Best of The Four Tops
What A Sham
Very Essential

20th Century Masters - The Millennium Collection: The Best of The Four Tops
The Four Tops
Manufacturer: Motown
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00003002L
Release Date: 1999-11-30

Tracks:

Baby I Need Your Loving
Ask The Lonely
I Can't Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch)
Reach Out I'll Be There
Standing In The Shadows Of Love
Bernadette
Shake Me, Wake Me (When It's Over)
Walk Away Renee
If I Were A Carpenter
Still Water (Love)
Ain't No Woman (Like The One I've Got)

Customer Reviews:

Nostalgic!.......2007-01-09

My husband and I love the Four Tops and this CD is a blast from the past! We were married in the late 60's and this is our kind of music!

The Millennium Collection: The Best of The Four Tops.......2006-07-13

What a great CD. It brought back so many great memories as a teenager.

What A Sham.......2005-01-06

This collection had me foolishly thinking that this was all the Four Tops had to offer. Boy was I wrong, I heard It's The Same Old Song, I Believe In You And Me and other of the Tops hits and i felt cheated. I now have the Anthology which includes 48 songs. The two aforementioned songs as well as 'You Keep Running Away', 'River Deep, Mountain High', 'It's All In The Game' and all of their ABC/Dunhill hits like 'One Chain' and 'Are You Man Enough' are on the Anthology. Don't bother with this collection and get the Anthology.

Very Essential.......2000-06-13

If You Haven't Heard these Classics Before then this is a Must.The Four Tops Have Recorded so Many Great Songs.The Words&Music are TImeless.Great Production&Musicianship.Most Importantly are The Vocals.which Todays Vocal Groups don't have.Quality of The Highest Level.

Average customer rating:

Fat Update of the Chicago Blues Sound
modern Chicago blues
Worth every penny and more
75 minutes of open-mouthed listening

Sadie Mae
Nick Moss & the Flip Tops
Manufacturer: Blue Bella
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B0009QTRRW
Release Date: 2005-06-14

Tracks:

Sadie Mae
I Never Forget
Check My Pulse
Just Like That
Ridin' At The Ranch
One-Eyed Jack
Grease Monkey
The Money I Make
Feel So Ashamed
The Coldcut Stomp
The Bishop
You Got To Lose
If I Could Get My Hands On You
Crazy Woman Blues
Everybody Got To Go
Gone Hoggin'

Album Description

Born and raised near Chicago, guitarist/vocalist Moss has effectively captured the classic sound of 1950s-style Chicago blues as exemplified by Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf, Otis Rush and Buddy Guy. Before going out on his own, Nick went to "blues school" by going out on the road and recording with such artists as Jimmy Dawkins, the Legendary Blues Band, Willie "Big Eyes" Smith, Big Bill Morganfield and--most notably--legendary guitarist Jimmy Rogers, who was Nick's primary influence and mentor for the almost three years Nick was in his band as second guitarist.

The album's title refers to Nick's first child, born last May and named after Hound Dog Taylor and John Lee Hooker songs. "Sadie Mae" features 13 original songs, as well as his own smokin' interpretations of songs by Earl Hooker ("You Got to Lose"), Lefty Dizz ("If I Could Get My Hands on You") and Jimmy Rogers ("Crazy Woman Blues").

Nick's previous three albums all received critical acclaim from blues audiences around the globe, and his last two albums, Count Your Blessings (2003) and Got a New Plan (2001) both earned him W.C. Handy Award nominations. His band, the Flip Tops, includes some of the best young blues players around, including keyboardist Bob Welsh (Charlie Musselwhite, Rusty Zinn), harmonica player/guitarist Gerry Hundt, bassist Dave Wood and drummer Victor Spann. Out front and center is the incendiary guitar and vocals of Nick Moss, himself, who transports the listener back in time to a Southside juke joint with a few guitar licks or moanin' vocals.

Customer Reviews:

Fat Update of the Chicago Blues Sound.......2006-02-14

This is a great, great blues album. Nick and his band have a fat blues sounds that is heavily influenced by the Chicago Blues masters, but is has a very modern and fresh sound to it. Nick paid his dues playing for Jimmy Rogers and in the Lendary Blues band. This album see Nick come of age and into his own. Album was nominated for Blues Album of the year by the Blues Foundation and when you hear it you will understand why. It should have won IMHO!. I have not been this excited about a new blues artist since Stevie Ray and Texas Flood. This is a great blues album with excellent guitar playing and very good supporting band. Album is solid throughout and title track sounds best played loud. Also check out Nick's 'Got a New Plan' for another get new blues album. Nick is the real deal - You will not be disappointed.

modern Chicago blues.......2006-02-06

If you like Chicago-style blues, you gotta get this CD. This one covers all the styles with modern, fresh, clever lyrics; a tight band with killer keyboards; killer harp; and killer guitar playing. And lots of music for the buck (there's 16 tracks!). This is the best CD yet from Nick Moss and the Flip Tops. Go get it!

Worth every penny and more.......2005-12-16

I listen to a lot of blues, and have been playing blues guitar for 10 years. My main influences are Warren Haynes, Muddy Waters, T-bone Walker, John Lee Hooker, Buddy Guy, Duke Robillard, Ronnie Earl, Kenny "Blue" Ray, and Jimmy D. Lane among others. And now I can add Nick Moss to that list. In fact, he blows them all away if you ask me.

I had the pleasure (and luck) to see Nick Moss play live at the Waterfront Blues Festival in Portland Oregon a few years back, and he was the best performer there that day. Junior Watson, Phil Guy, and Kenny "Blue" Ray were there that same day but Nick Moss was the show stopper. This album is a real testament to how he sounds live.

His other albums are good but this one is great. If you enjoy blues at all, you are sure to love Nick Moss & the Flip Tops. You shouldn't call yourself a fan of blues music until you've heard this CD, because you're missing the best part of it all.

75 minutes of open-mouthed listening.......2005-06-16

Sadie Mae - the new album of Nick Moss & the Flip Tops - is certainly one of the greatest Blues events of this summer. 75 minutes of open-mouthed listening. With more evidence than ever Nick Moss demonstrates how contemporary may sound the tradition-based Chicago Blues. More than that - though, in the liner note, he affirms not to be "trying to take blues to the next level", - he does take the real, authentic Blues up to the level of classical music, where the words "old" and "new", "now" and "then" loose their sense in the face of an everlasting beauty. A not to miss album for all Blues lovers. Even more for those who aren't - these 75 minutes will make them change their mind!

Average customer rating:

FOUR TOPS GET BETTER WITH TIME!
My vote for best R&B group ever!
Best Single Disc Overview Of The Tops
The Classic Four Tops
Very Essential

Essential Tops
The Four Tops
Manufacturer: Hip-O Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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The Ultimate Collection
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ASIN: B000050I1X
Release Date: 2000-11-07

Tracks:

Baby I Need Your Lovin
Ask The Lonely
I Can't Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch)
It's The Same Old Song
Reach Out I'll Be There
Standing In The Shadows Of Love
Shake Me Wake Me (When It's Over)
Bernadette
Walk Away Renee
You Keep Running Away
If I Were A Carpenter
Still Water (Love)
It's All In The Game
(It's The Way) Nature Planned It
Ain't No Woman (Like The One I Got)
Keeper Of The Castle
Are You Man Enough
Sweet Understanding Love
One Chain Don't Make No Prison
Midnight Flower
Catfish
When She Was My Girl
I Just Can't Walk Away
I Believe In You And Me

Album Description

The Four Tops' story began in 1953 in Detroit, Michigan, where the original four members were born and raised. At the birthday party of a friend, the four were asked to sing. they complied and enjoyed the impromptu experience so much that they repeated it the next day at one of the members' houses, deciding immediately to form a group. Originally "The Four Aims", the fellas began honing their chops via local high school graduation receptions, talent shows, church functions and the oa 'diva' by music industry insiders and media alike.

What, you might ask, does this have to do with @ngela Winbush? Well, it's pretty simple: if we apply the dictionary definition of the word to the extraordinary Ms. Winbush, we can rightfully say that she is indeed a diva of the highest order. Forget about temperament, attitude or manner: @ngela's consummate vocal skills place her head and shouldersP> No need for an official declaration or ceremony, as it's been clear for a long time: the Dramatics are one itual Black pride messages with Curtis Mayfield at the helm, to their '70s triumphs and beyond, the Impressions possess an awe-inspiring catalog. This 20-song collection - spanning from 1958 to 1975 - represents the Impressions at their most indelible.

Childhood friends Jerry Butler and Curtis Mayfield spearheaded the Impressions, having sung and traveled together in Chicago with the Northern Jubilee singers and in Curtis' grandmother Reverend Anna-Bell Mayfield's Traveling Soul Spiritual Church. Outside of gospel, Mayfield, based on Chicago's West Side, sang with the Alphatones. When his family moved to the North Side, rehearsing became increasingly strained. Butler convinced a 15-year-old Mayfield to join his group, the Roosters (with Sam Gooden and brothers Arthur and Richard Brooks), because he felt they needed someone who could play guitar and help hone their harmonies. Mayfield dropped out of school to do so and the Roosters became the Impressions when that name was chosen from several in a hat.

Customer Reviews:

FOUR TOPS GET BETTER WITH TIME!.......2007-01-06

I ALREADY HAVE THIS ALBUM AS A VINYL,SO OF COURSE I HAD TO REPLACE IT NOW
AS A CD.ON THIS ALBUM "LEVI STUBBS"THE LEAD SINGER DOES A SONG CALLED,"I JUST CAN'T WALK AWAY".IT'S A BEAUTIFUL SONG AND THE INSTRUMENTAL PART GIVES ME GOOSE BUMPS.AS ALWAYS THE FOUR TOPS ARE A GREAT GROUP,BUT I ENJOY
A LOT OF SONGS THAT NO ONE HAS EVER HEARD,AND THIS IS ONE OF THEM.IF YOUR
A FOUR TOPS FAN YOU'LL ENJOY IT.PEACE AND BLESSINGS

My vote for best R&B group ever!.......2004-08-21

I'm not going to write a biography on these guys but I am going to tell those who do not know much of this group or their music and are looking for a fantastic collection of excellent R&B hits from a group of classic performers this is the album to get! I feel that 'The Four Tops' were definitely not given the recognition that they deserve. It seems like the other Motown artists who were popular during the same time such as the Temptations, Supremes, The Miracles, and Marvin Gaye were given much more attention than the Four Tops were. But let me tell you, if you want to know what pure soul sounds like just listen to the vocals of lead singer, Levi Stubbs, on songs such as 'Baby, I need your loving' or even in their works in the 70's like 'Ain't No Woman (like the one I got)' and you'll be hooked on his voice! His is one of the most strong, soulful and sexy voices of the 60's! One of the things I liked the best about this album is that it is full of songs that you would never hear on the radio and it's a shame because some are hidden gems. This is a CD that has one great song after another. Do yourself a favor and get this CD if you don't have it yet!

Best Single Disc Overview Of The Tops.......2003-07-30

This disc lives up to its name with major representation from all of the labels that the Four Tops recorded for from 1963 through 1983. Motown of course is where they recorded the bulk of their hits and that tenure is represented on the first 14 recordings. The leadoff track - 1964's "Baby I Need your Loving" - was the Tops' first collaboration with the songwriting-production team of Holland-Dozier-Holland. It established a winning formula: lyrics that entail Levi yearning for or proclaiming his love for a girl he has lost or can't have; pulsating music cut in a (high) key out of Stubbs' regular vocal range, the subsequent strain causing his pleas to sound even more dramatic; background vocals with a full, almost Spectorian resonance, thanks to the addition of Motown's resident session singers, the Andantes.

After a mediocre "Baby I Need Your Loving" soundalike "Without The One You Love" (not included here) stiffed, the Tops rebounded in 1965 with the majestic ballad "Ask The Lonely," their first number one smash "I Can't Help Myself" and "It's The Same Old Song" (and truly the latter was, a melodic retread of "I Can't Help Myself"). They reached their commercial peak in late 1966 to early 1967 with the powerful "Reach Out ("I'll Be There)," "Standing In The Shadows Of Love," and "Bernadette." In late 1967, however, Holland-Dozier-Holland abruptly left Motown in a dispute over financial compensation. This prompted the label to release year-old remakes of "Walk Away Renee" and "If I Were A Carpenter" as follow-up Tops' singles. They are proof that the Tops could make a hit out of practically anything.

In 1968 and 1969, other Motown writer-producers like Ivy Jo Hunter, Johnny Bristol, and Norman Whitfield attempted to fill the void left by Holland-Dozier-Holland's exit. None of their work with the Tops, however, penetrated the pop or r & b top 20 (and none of it is included here). In 1970, Frank Wilson took over as the Tops' producer for the landmark Still Waters concept album. Wilson ditched the Andantes from the background and put more emphasis on the Tops harmonies. As evidenced by the hits "It's All In the Game" and "Still Water (Love)," the Tops had risen to new melodic heights. They were followed by more of Frank Wilson's well-crafted singles like the enclosed "(It's The Way) Nature Planned It."

Unfortunately these 1971-1972 follow-ups received little promotional support from Motown and struggled on the charts. Frustrated, the Tops left the label in late 1972 and signed with ABC subsidiary Dunhill Records. They immediately hit with the urban message song "Keeper Of The Castle," the Shaft in Africa theme "Are You Man Enough," and the multi-format symphonic smash "Ain't No Woman (Like The One I've Got)." With the countrified "Sweet Understand Love" and their funkiest recording ever "One Chain Don't Make No Prison," the Tops maintained the high quality, but their final ABC/Dunhill hits in 1976/77(the disco "Catfish," the reggae in molasses "Midnight Flower") were duds.

In 1981 the Tops signed with Casablanca and released two of their strongest albums ever. They are represented by the retro smash "When She Was My Girl" and the wedding staple "I Believe In You And Me" (Levi's performance buries Whitney Houston's hit version). Interspersed between these two gems is "I Just Can't Walk Away" a stirring ballad from their shortlived return to Motown in 1983. The Tops also recorded many lesser hits and great album tracks over the years (most of which can be found on their box set FOUREVER). But if you only want the big hits, this 24 track collection is the best single disc set available.

The Classic Four Tops.......2002-11-07

The Four Tops were perharps Motown's finest all-male acts. Their work on the label was consistently excellent and though after their departure from Motown their work lacked the commecial success they'd previously enjoyed, their work was still distinct, made instantly recognisable by Levi Stubb's explosive and dynamic vocal expertise. The Essential Collection offers the majority of their familiar hits though for some odd reason, the chilly, atmospheric classic, 7 Rooms Of Gloom is not included. Their first really major hit came with the infectious, I Can't Help Myself where Stubb's inimitable and persuasive voice is just pure soul. Far more ambitious however was the haunting, Reach Out I'll Be There. Stubb's voice cuts effectivley through the multi layered arrangements of flutes, oboes and tambourines. This compelling number became another U.S chart topper for The Four Tops and became one of the key landmarks in their career. After this the formular continued to bubble consistently with excellent soul classics such as the fabulous, Standing In The Shadows Of Love, the yearning Bernadette, beautifully delivered ballads like Walk Away Renee and It's All In The Game becoming huge sellers on both sides of the Atlantic. The quality in this collection never once dwindles making for consistent and compelling listening. These were one of Motown's major, legendary acts and their work remains unique and unparalled. Highly recommended!

Very Essential.......2001-09-25

it's a shame that the Four Tops haven't gotten more attention because there songs here are true Gems.they have the kind of Skills that Legends are made of."Still Water" is deep as is the Classic "Reach Out(I'll Be There)" that urgency passion&rush make that a Gem.a Must Have.

Average customer rating:

Sonya is one of my favorite new artist
What an awesome surprise!

Cold Day
Sonya Kitchell
Manufacturer: Velour Recordings
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Pop | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B0006PUCK2
Release Date: 2005-02-08

Tracks:

Cold Day
Think Of You
Tinted Glass
Clara
Fly Away
Someday

Product Description

CD contains 6 songs.

Customer Reviews:

Sonya is one of my favorite new artist.......2006-04-04

I saw Sonya at Austins SXSW and it was an awsome performance. Right after the performance i went out and bought her cd. You need to pick this up. It is an awsome cd for young and old. Joni fans will love this cd. Go on check her out.

What an awesome surprise!.......2005-08-23

I saw Sonya Kitchell in concert as an opening act for Susan Tedeschi and the audience was barely paying attention as we were seated. Within minutes, Sonya had capitivated the audience and people started paying attention and the idle chatter quickly hushed. You knew you were hearing something special. With a quiet but demure demeanor she drew the audience in until the final tune of her set had the audience singing along to "Fly Away". Each song on this album shows a little different aspect to her talent, and I love each song. I have had her CD on repeat for about two weeks now and people comment on her music no matter how low it is played. She can do jazz, she can do the blues, she can do anything she puts her mind to doing.

I get excited when I "find" a new musician, and though she has been around a bit, I feel like I found her. She is an exciting new singer/songwriter who can play her instrument and captivate with her voice and style.

Average customer rating:

Wheres "Do Whatcha Gotta Do"
motown legends !!
AT LONG LAST
Best ever box set
Best ever box set

Fourever
The Four Tops
Manufacturer: Hip-O Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Classic R&B | R&B | Styles | Music

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Motown | R&B | Styles | Music

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50th Anniversary Anthology

ASIN: B00005O6NA
Release Date: 2001-09-25

Tracks:

Could It Be You (Single Only Release, U.S.)
Ain't That Love (Single Only Release, U.S.)
Pennies From Heaven (Single Only Release, U.S.)
Until I Met You - Alternate Mix (Previously Unreleased)
Baby I Need Your Loving - Single Mix
Where Did You Go - Single Mix
Without The One You Love (Life's Not Worth While) - Single Mix
Left With A Broken Heart - Original Lp Mix
Ask The Lonely - Alternate Stereo Mix
Just A Little Love (Before My Life Is Gone) (Previously Unreleased)
My Heart Is Calling You (Previously Unreleased)
I Can't Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch) - Alternate Mix(Previously Unreleased)
It's The Same Old Song - Alternate Berry Gordy Single
Is There Anything That I Can Do - Original Lp Mix
Something About You - Single Mix
No Good Without You (Previously Unreleased)
Just As Long As You Need Me - Single Mix
Shake Me, Wake Me (When It's Over) - Single Mix
Loving You Is Sweeter Than Ever - Single Mix
Brenda - Alternate Lawrence Payton Vocal (Previously Unreleased)
For Once In My Life - Single Mix

Tracks:

Reach Out I'll Be There - Single Mix
Standing In The Shadows Of Love - Single Mix
Bernadette - Single Mix
7-Rooms Of Gloom - Alternate Mix(Previously Unreleased)
I'll Turn To Stone (Live At The Roostertail ) - Original
You Keep Running Away - Single Mix
Walk Away Renee - Single Mix
Your Love Is Wonderful - Single Mix (Single Only Release, U.S.)
If I Were A Carpenter - Single Mix
Just Another Lonely Night - With The Temptations (Previously Unreleased)
Oh, I've Been Blessed - 'Levi & The Vandellas' (Previously Unreleased)
Yesterday's Dreams - Single Mix
Can't Seem To Get You Out Of My Mind - Single Mix
I'm In A Different World - Single Mix
What Is A Man - Single Mix
So Far (Previously Unreleased)
Don't Let Him Take Your Love From Me - Single Mix
Do What You Gotta Do - Original Lp Mix
Macarthur Park - Original Lp Mix
I'll Pay Double (Previously Unreleased)
Nothing - Original Lp Mix
Barbara's Boy - Original Lp Mix
Stranded On The Road Of Love - With Edwin Starr (Previously Unreleased)

Tracks:

Its All In The Game - Single Mix
Love (Is The Answer) - Single Mix
Still Water (Peace) / Still Water (Love) - Unedited Version (Previously Unreleased)
Ballad To: The One I Love (Previously Unreleased)
River Deep - Mountain High - The Supremes & Four Tops - Original Lp Mix
I'm Glad About It - The Supremes & Four Tops - Original Lp Mix
Just Seven Numbers (Can Straighten Out My Life) - Single Mix
In These Changing Times - Single Version
A Simple Game - Original Unedited Mix (Previously Unreleased)
You Stole My Love - Single Mix (Single Only Release, Previously Unreleased In The U.S.)
So Deep Within You - Single Mix (Single Only Release, Previously Unreleased In The U.S.)
I Can't Quit Your Love - Single Mix
(It's The Way) Nature Planned It - Single Mix
Keeper Of The Castle - Original Lp Mix
Ain't No Woman (Like The One I've Got) - Original Lp Mix
Love Music - Original Lp Mix
Remember What I Told You To Forget - Original Lp Mix
Are You Man Enough - Soundtrack Version
Sweet Understanding Love - Original Lp Mix
I Just Can't Get You Out Of My Mind - Original Lp Mix
One Woman Man - Original Lp Mix
Main Street People (Intro) / Main Street People - Original Lp Mix

Tracks:

One Chain Don't Make No Prison - Original Lp Mix
Midnight Flower (Live) - Original Lp Mix
Seven Lonely Nights - Original Lp Mix
We All Gotta Stick Together - Original Lp Mix
Catfish - Original Lp Mix
For Your Love - 12-Inch Version (Single Only Release, Previously Unreleased In The U.S.)
When She Was My Girl - Original Lp Mix
Tonight I'm Gonna Love You All Over (Live) (Previously Unreleased)
I Believe In You And Me - Original Lp Mix
The Temptations And Four Tops Medley (Live) - Original 12-Inch
I Just Can't Walk Away - Original Lp Mix
Sexy Ways - Single Mix
Hot Nights (Single Only Release, U.S.)
Red Hot Love (Previously Unreleased)
Indestructible - 12-Inch Edit With Smokey Robinson
Loco In Acapulco - Original Lp Mix
If Ever A Love There Was - The Four Tops Featuring Aretha Franklin & Kenny G
Till You Return To Me - Grover Washington, Jr.
The Four Of Us (Single Only Release, Previously Unreleased In The U.S.)

Amazon.com

Those only familiar with the Tops' 1960s Motown heyday may be surprised at just how prolific the foursome remained after leaving the mother ship in 1972. While this four-disc set does include 53 tracks from their peak Motown tenure, it also offers a much more comprehensive look at their entire career, reaching all the way back to a 1956 Chess single and continuing into the 1990s. Of particular note are a number of topflight selections from their years on Dunhill and ABC (1972-1979), when hits such as "Ain't No Woman (Like the One I've Got)" and "Keeper of the Castle" as well as a few lesser-known gems successfully updated their trademark sound to include elements of funk and disco while still remaining true to their defining trait: the balance of Levi Stubbs's robust growl and the ethereal harmonies of his mates. Their early-1980s Casablanca period also yielded notable additions to their repertoire, such as the buoyant "When She Was My Girl" and the ballad "I Believe in You and Me," which would become a wedding staple. Still, nothing can compare to their Motown classics, when the songs of the Holland-Dozier-Holland hit machine joined forces with the Tops' appealing style to the delight of a generation. Fans content with the Motown hits are advised to pick up the single-disc Ultimate Collection, but those looking for a deeper investigation will enjoy this thorough survey. --Marc Greilsamer

Customer Reviews:

Wheres "Do Whatcha Gotta Do".......2005-07-28

This is a very comprehensive review of Four Tops "cuts' what I simply can't understand is why none of these 'Hit Lists' do not include what I believe to be one their greatest, Jimmy Webbs, Do Whatcha Gotta Do! Other than this terrific song I love the rest of the Boxed set immenesly

motown legends !!.......2004-09-03

the four tops are fourever ,nuff said !! j.h. "hitsville usa" p.s. just play them golden memories !!

AT LONG LAST.......2004-04-16

At last we have a box set for the very gifted and often overlooked TOPS. The Tops were together longer than any other Motown group. Yet they tended to be overshadowed by the other acts from the same stable. This set stands as a testimony to how great they really were. All the hits, plus some rarities, all of them true gems. Their music continues to stand the test of time. I have been a fan from the beginning and, thanks to this collection, can continue to spread their legacy to future generations.

Best ever box set.......2002-06-28

This is a must for all tops fans and truely is magnificant, it brings out the best from these four familiar guys, wonderfully put together and deserves every tops fan, s attention if you want to hear levi and the guys giving there best this does just that , what an exellent compilation.

Best ever box set.......2002-06-28

This is a must for all tops fans and truely is magnificant, it brings out the best from these four familiar guys, wonderfully put together and deserves every tops fan, s attention if you want to levi and the guys giving there best this does just that , what an exellent compilation.

Average customer rating:

Live at Chan's
Fantastic

Live at Chan's
Nick Moss and the Flip Tops
Manufacturer: Blue Bella
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Chicago Blues | Blues | Styles | Music

General | Blues | Styles | Music

Electric Blues Guitar | Blues | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B000GDH8R4
Release Date: 2006-07-11

Tracks:

Eggroll Stroll
Check My Pulse
I Love The Woman
I Never Forget
One-Eyed Jack
Your Red Wagon
Just Like That
It's Good In Your Neighborhood
The End
Wine-O-Baby Boogie
Move Over, Morris

Album Description

Live at Chan's is the first live album from guitarist Nick Moss, and the follow-up to his last CD, Sadie Mae, which garnered stellar reviews, strong radio support and extended features in several guitar magazines about the blues guitar prowess of Moss. That wave of acclaim for Sadie Mae also brought nominations for "Album of the Year" and "Traditional Album of the Year" from The Blues Foundation's 2006 Blues Awards, at which Nick and the band also performed.

Live at Chan's is Nick's present to all his fans who've clamored for a live recording from the Chicago Blues guitar master and it plays just like one of his shows: honest, energized and visceral! Live at Chan's is the perfect showcase not only for Nick's blistering, soulful guitar and vocals, but also the amazing keyboard work of Piano Willie Oshawny, the multi-talented bass, harp and guitar playing of Gerry Hundt and the solid drumming of Victor Spann, all road-tested vets with the band over the last year or so. Added to the great ensemble playing is special guest "Monster" Mike Welch for three tracks on guitar. The songs include a number of fan favorites from his previous four studio CDs, as well as some new originals and choice band covers.

Born and raised near Chicago, Moss has effectively captured the classic sound of 1950s-style Chicago blues as exemplified by Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf, Otis Rush and Buddy Guy. Before going out on his own, Nick went to "blues school" by going out on the road and recording with such artists as Jimmy Dawkins, the Legendary Blues Band, Willie "Big Eyes" Smith, Big Bill Morganfield and - most notably - legendary guitarist Jimmy Rogers, who was Nick's primary influence and mentor for the almost three years Nick was in his band as second guitarist.

Customer Reviews:

Live at Chan's.......2007-03-29

I didn't know this young asset guitarist of Chicago Blues, nevertheless after listening "LIVE AT CHAN'S" I'm sure, I'm glad to know about him, this record is really good and I think that is one of the better live records of the year (2005). It has the contribution always inestimable of big young guitar "MONSTER" Mike WELCH and the stellar WILLIE OSHAWNY's piano performance. Talking about songs all of them are very good but I like mainly "CHECK MY PULSE", the tender "I LOVE THE WOMAN" the colossal "I NEVER FORGET" with a Magic Slim taste alike "IT'S GOOD IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD", the big blues "ONE-EYED JACK", the instrumental close song "MORE OVER, MORRIS" and the fast one "YOUR RED WAGON". A must buy it, really great stuff and very good.

Fantastic.......2007-01-03

This is a pro touring band at its best! Great players great recording!
Buy it!

Average customer rating:

Top Of The Mountain!
Motown group at their peak
'Reach Out' is One of the Finest Motown Albums Ever Made...

On Top/Reach Out
The Four Tops
Manufacturer: Universal
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | R&B | Styles | Music

Motown | R&B | Styles | Music

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Still Waters Run Deep/Changing Times
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ASIN: B00005OMES
Release Date: 2001-11-12

Tracks:

I Got a Feeling
Brenda
Loving You Is Sweeter Than Ever
Shake Me, Wake Me (When It's Over)
Until You Love Someone
There's No Love Left
Matchmaker
Michelle
In the Still of the Night
Bluesette
Quiet Nights of Quiet Stars
Then
Reach Out (I'll Be There)
Walk Away Renee
7-Rooms of Gloom
If I Were a Carpenter
Last Train to Clarksville
I'll Turn to Stone
I'm a Believer
Standing in the Shadows of Love
Bernadette
Cherish
Wonderful Baby
What Else Is There to Do (But Think About You)

Album Description

UK reissue combines two out-of-print Motown classics together on one CD, 'On Top' (1966) & 'Reach Out' (1967). Slipcase.

Customer Reviews:

Top Of The Mountain!.......2006-02-17

"On Top" ( originally Motown 647 ) was a commendable effort from the group, appearing the summer of 1966. It carried the singles "Shake Me Wake Me," and "Loving You Is Sweeter Than Ever." "Shake Me" was a true hit, but in comparison with the rest of the group's run of singles, "Sweeter" must be considered a dud, reaching only No. 45 Pop. It's B-side, Holland-Dozier-Holland's "I Like Everything About You" ( from "Second Album" ) was frankly, more lively. "On Top" also showcased the group's obvious love of supper club standards ( "Still Of The Night," "Quiet Nights," "Matchmaker" ). Two sturdy H-D-H numbers, "Until You Love Someone" and " I Got A Feeling" rode the respective B-sides of "Reach Out I'll Be There" and "Bernadette."

If the Tops can be considered to have a masterpiece Motown album, it was unquestionably "Four Tops Reach Out" ( originally Motown 660). By the time it appeared in the early summer of 1967, the group had amassed three more enduring classic singles, "Reach Out," "Standing In The Shadows Of Love," and "Bernadette" ( No. 1, No. 6 and No. 4 Pop, respectively. ) Simultaneous with the LP release was a fourth single, a genuine double-sided hit, "7-Rooms Of Gloom" and "I'll Turn To Stone". It was the last album fully under the auspices of producers Holland-Dozier-Holland, and fans, eager for any album carrying "Reach Out" sent it to No. 11 on the Pop album chart. ( It might have gone higher, but Motown chose to release "Greatest Hits" in only September, which repeated the cream singles of "Reach Out" and the group's older signature hits back to 1964's "Baby I Need Your Loving." )

The cover tunes were a delight, especially the clear enjoyment Levi shows with the Monkees' "I'm A Believer." Young owners of the album like myself were delighted when Motown went twice back into it for singles for the first half of '68: "Walk Away Renee" and "If I Were A Carpenter" ( both Top 20 ), though we wouldn't fully know for some years the troubling reasons why.

By the end of "Carpenter's" chart run in June of 1968, Motown was a different company. Florence Ballard had been expelled from the Supremes, David Ruffin was out of the Temptations, and Marvin Gaye was increasingly affected by the on-going illness of his cherished duet partner, Tammi Terrell. On corporate levels, things changed perhaps even more profoundly. Producer William Stevenson, a founding pillar, and integral in many Gaye and Martha & the Vandellas hits, asked for stock in the company, didn't get it, and took a deal with MGM Records, taking singer-wife Kim Weston with him. Clarence Paul, an incalculable early influence in Stevie Wonder's career, was soon gone too.

Even those losses, perhaps sustainable, were soundly trumped by the walkout of Brian Holland, Lamont Dozier and Eddie Holland over royalty disputes. The Supremes, now marking time till Diana's solo departure, managed to remain a commercial presence with hits like "Livin' In Shame", "I'm Gonna Make You Love Me" and genuine milestones like "Love Child" and their "Someday We'll Be Together" farewell. The going was much tougher for H-D-H-dependent acts like Martha & the Vandellas and the Four Tops. The Vandellas never recovered and the Tops suddenly had to struggle for hits as never before. Frank Wilson brought them some respite in 1970 with a re-make of "It's All In the Game," "Still Water" and a Supremes duet, "River Deep-Mountain High". A slightly longer resurgence came with the group's signing with ABC Records in 1972.

But for rabid, mid-60s Motown fans, the party was over. The company would still make enduring hit music, but the days when we could presume a very interesting ( if not chart-topping ) single, by every major act, every three months, were no more. "On Top" and "Reach Out" represent the last glorious days before that coming turmoil and upset, and they surely belong in any Four Tops lover's collection.

Motown group at their peak.......2005-04-28

The first of the two albums here, On top from 1966, includes two American hits, the first of which was Shake me wake me when it's over. The second, Loving you is sweeter than ever, also charted in Britain. The album also includes a cover of the Beatles classic, Michelle, and a couple of songs from the Great American Songbook - In the still of the night (a Cole Porter song that was a huge hit for Tommy Dorsey in 1937) and Quiet night of quiet stars - which are most impressive. The remainder of this album is made up of obscure but excellent songs written by Motown's own songwriters.
The second album, Reach out from 1967 contains six major international hit singles (they all charted at least top twenty in Britain as well as America), although four of them had already been hits before the album was released. The six hits were Reach out I'll be there, Standing in the shadows of love, Bernadette, 7 rooms of gloom, Walk away Renee and If I were a carpenter. The album also includes impressive covers of two Monkees hits (Last train to Clarksville, I'm a believer) and Cherish (an American hit for the Association).

This is the strongest of the Four tops twofers, containing plenty of hits as well as demonstrating the variety of material that they could do.

'Reach Out' is One of the Finest Motown Albums Ever Made..........2002-10-02

It's one of those "put it on/let it ride" products. It has strong tunes written by Holland/Dozier/Holland ("Reach Out..", "7-Rooms of Gloom" "Standing in the Shadows of Love", "I'll Turn to Stone" and the show stopping "Bernadette"), great Motown productions of the Monkees ("Last Train to Clarksdale" and an excellent "I'm A Believer"), the Association ("Cherish") and other 60's standards ("Walk Away Renee", "If I Were A Carpenter"). Stubbs is in fine, fine, fine form here and the digital reprocessing on the Reach Out CD I got in the mid-90's make the fellas in the back ground sound as if they were right in the living room.

It deserves a reprinting.

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