The Stylistics | Rockin’ Roll Baby
Album Review: The Stylistics | Rockin’ Roll Baby
(Avco - 1973)
By Jerry "The Mouse" Clark
The year 1973 and many groups were making the transition from the peace movement to disco. The Stylistics released their third album “Rockin’ Roll Baby” after receiving accolades from the debut album “The Stylistics” (1971) and the sophomore release “Round 2” (1972). I was introduced to their sound from listening to reel to reel tape recordings of Philadelphia’s WDAS radio shows while serving overseas in the Air Force 1972 -74. All of the guys that owned reel to reel tape recorders would have their folks from home tape radio shows and mail them to us for a taste of home radio (the guys from Philly had a winner from WDAS).
While on a three day pass in London to buy music and to do a little clubbing, I remember clearly purchasing the “Rockin Roll Baby “album. The first thing I did after returning from my pass was to drop my stereo needle on this lp. The first track Only for the Children threw me off a bit. I was expecting a ballad but got a well orchestrated disco tune. The second and third tracks Could This Be The End and Let Them Work It Out fit the bill in typical Stylistics fashion. Russell Thompkins has a way with storytelling and relationship problem solving through song that was showcased magnificently with help from the group and Thom Bell's arrangements.
You feel the presence of songwriters Thom Bell & Linda Creed in eight of the ten selections. Make It Last in a seductive calypso style and my favorite selection Payback Is A Dog both relate to relationships advising to handle with tender loving care. Guidance in love is also expressed in the superb Love Comes Easy. I love how the arrangement flows and the warm melody comforts.
The title track Rockin Roll Baby tells a story of a little boy entertainer and his adventures with his father - a delightful thowback reminder of the many stories about the real life development of children entertainers. You Make Me Feel Brand New, one of the Stylistic's most recognized songs as a ballad for the ages and as a rare duet between Russell Thompkins Jr. and group member Arrion Love, wraps up this wonderful album. I can’t tell you the countless weddings I've attended where this classic love song was requested for the DJ to spin.
"Rockin Roll Baby" is a must for your Back in the Day record collection!
Playlist:
Only for the Children
Could This Be the End
Let Them Work It Out
Make It Last
Payback Is a Dog
Love Comes Easy
There's No Reason
Rockin' Roll Baby
You Make Me Feel Brand New
I Won't Give You Up
Jerry “The Mouse” Clark
Mellow Madness Music
Posted by Administration at 8/1/2011 8:47 AM 
Categories: Rhythm and Blues, Old School Soul, Videos
Tags: 70s Music Music Videos
Categories: Rhythm and Blues, Old School Soul, Videos
Tags: 70s Music Music Videos
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