Originally Posted by
PeaceNHarmony
In 2015 Caroline International and Soul Music Records issued the superb Dells 1971 title 'Freedom Means' for [[I believe) the first time on legit CD. Produced by the superb, multi-talented Charles Stepney, this title was the 7th LP by The Dells and their 5th on Chess/Cadet. Stepney created a conceptual LP largely revolving around songs dealing with different aspect and varieties of freedom. 6 original songs and 3 covers [[and the non-existent LP closer, 'Freedom Theme'!) make a superb showcase for the vocal talents of Verne Allison, Mickey McGill, Marvin Junior, Chuck Barksdale, and Johnny Carter.
The Stepney arrangements are the best of Baroque Soul, fully orchestrated and finely detailed yet never overpowering the true reason we listen to The Dells - those 5 magnificent voices. Best know on the LP is the hit single 'The Love We Had Stays On My Mind', surely one of the towering accomplishments of 1970s r&b.
This reissue contains no added tracks but has been mastered beautifully and has a nice booklet with new interviews. An A+ title for sure.
Bookmarks