amazing, 28 Apr 2007
think it over- chorus upon chorus of honey layered perfection- emo fans check this one out it will blow your mind this time (sorry) but this is insanely smooth- but in a way bittersweet- atmospheric to a point of almost having an eerie (overlook hotel) ingredient. Slowed down orchestral groove heaven.

the cream of rare groove funk, 07 Mar 2007
Not only are the Delfonics one of the supreme bands of the rare groove scene, they also know how to produce a track listing to wet the appetite of the most discerning palete.
Even the great man Tarantino himself included a fine Delfonics track ,namely "Did'nt I blow your mind" which went down very well and fitted into the film (JACKIE BROWN )extremely well, it was almost as like the film was made for the track.
Needless to say anything by the Delfonics is a must in any CD collection.
No collection is complete without them.
All the best
Steve The Rare Groove Connection.

What was that great song in 'Jackie Brown'?, 23 May 2001
In Tarantino's 'Jackie Brown' the guy trying to pull Jackie gets in to her music to try and impress. The song in question is "Didn't I Blown Your Mind" by the Delfonics. On the strength of that song I picked up this compilation which is full of similar type stuff, but it doesn't get annoyingly samey. It's a kind of fun soul music and is a good pick-me-up.

It's hard to think of a more quintessential pre-disco-era super group, and this really is the ultimate collection of the Jackson 5's finest. From the super-sweet "I'll Be There" (which went on to become one of the most-covered songs in recent history) to the peppy pop of "I Want You Back", the period's essence is in every single high note. The Afros, the bell-bottoms, Michael's pre-identity crisis, it's all there and so much more fun than anything any of the clan has done since. This is a great party album: classics like "ABC", "Never Can Say Goodbye", and "Rockin' Robin" sit alongside more jazz-influenced tracks like a cover of the Isleys' "It's Your Thing", and are guaranteed to keep all feet on the dance floor. --Rebecca Wallwork

amazing, 28 Apr 2007
think it over- chorus upon chorus of honey layered perfection- emo fans check this one out it will blow your mind this time (sorry) but this is insanely smooth- but in a way bittersweet- atmospheric to a point of almost having an eerie (overlook hotel) ingredient. Slowed down orchestral groove heaven.

the cream of rare groove funk, 07 Mar 2007
Not only are the Delfonics one of the supreme bands of the rare groove scene, they also know how to produce a track listing to wet the appetite of the most discerning palete.
Even the great man Tarantino himself included a fine Delfonics track ,namely "Did'nt I blow your mind" which went down very well and fitted into the film (JACKIE BROWN )extremely well, it was almost as like the film was made for the track.
Needless to say anything by the Delfonics is a must in any CD collection.
No collection is complete without them.
All the best
Steve The Rare Groove Connection.

What was that great song in 'Jackie Brown'?, 23 May 2001
In Tarantino's 'Jackie Brown' the guy trying to pull Jackie gets in to her music to try and impress. The song in question is "Didn't I Blown Your Mind" by the Delfonics. On the strength of that song I picked up this compilation which is full of similar type stuff, but it doesn't get annoyingly samey. It's a kind of fun soul music and is a good pick-me-up.

A nice mix of Jackson's 5's biggest hits, 13 Aug 2008
I bought this to get a copy of their most famous fun hits such as ABC, I Want You Back and Rockin Robin and was pleased to find some other great songs that I hadn't heard before, other than the few really famous hits that are on the album though I wouldn't say much else grabs you and it seems that some really good songs from the Jackson 5 such as 'Blame it on The Boogie' have been left out.

Worth purchasing if your into them or just the famous songs otherwise possibly give it a miss. A nice addition to party music collections though.

Jackson 5 Classic, 08 Jun 2008
All the oldies and goldies plus a few lesser known songs. Takes me back to my teen years. I still listen to this music almost 40 years on which proves it has stood the test of time. It is not sheer sentimentality, this music is good. Since the Amazon reviewer brings up what she calls Michael's pre-identity crisis, I feel bound to say that in Michael's defence, he has a right to do with his face what he pleases, he does actually suffer from two diseases which both ravage the face. But hey I thought these were music reviewers! Buy it for the music, Michael's voice even at this age gives some idea of what is to come - the King of Pop.

Still legendary, 06 Jan 2004
Even though the Jackson 5 have long since split up and gone their seperate ways, their music still lives on, giving an oural example of their legendary performances and well written songs.

This album is, to put it bluntly, the best. With all the hits that make the Jackson 5 the Jackson 5 and make them stand out, the album is one of the best played on my stereo to date. Even if you aren't that big of a fan of these guys, it doesn't matter, the album is so easy going and "feel-good" anyone can enjoy it! And come on, for such a low price you get all these melodolic songs from years gone by, but never forgotten.

This album is the best of the jackson 5, 04 Dec 2000
Because its got all the greatest hits like I want you back and ABC.This album is the best jackson 5 album I have bought so far.I bought this since I have always like the jackson 5 and through I have always wanted their greatest hits on a album.All the songs have pop and R&B in it.Even If you are not a jackson 5 fan I still advise you to get this album because its the best.

amazing, 28 Apr 2007
think it over- chorus upon chorus of honey layered perfection- emo fans check this one out it will blow your mind this time (sorry) but this is insanely smooth- but in a way bittersweet- atmospheric to a point of almost having an eerie (overlook hotel) ingredient. Slowed down orchestral groove heaven.

the cream of rare groove funk, 07 Mar 2007
Not only are the Delfonics one of the supreme bands of the rare groove scene, they also know how to produce a track listing to wet the appetite of the most discerning palete.
Even the great man Tarantino himself included a fine Delfonics track ,namely "Did'nt I blow your mind" which went down very well and fitted into the film (JACKIE BROWN )extremely well, it was almost as like the film was made for the track.
Needless to say anything by the Delfonics is a must in any CD collection.
No collection is complete without them.
All the best
Steve The Rare Groove Connection.

What was that great song in 'Jackie Brown'?, 23 May 2001
In Tarantino's 'Jackie Brown' the guy trying to pull Jackie gets in to her music to try and impress. The song in question is "Didn't I Blown Your Mind" by the Delfonics. On the strength of that song I picked up this compilation which is full of similar type stuff, but it doesn't get annoyingly samey. It's a kind of fun soul music and is a good pick-me-up.

A nice mix of Jackson's 5's biggest hits, 13 Aug 2008
I bought this to get a copy of their most famous fun hits such as ABC, I Want You Back and Rockin Robin and was pleased to find some other great songs that I hadn't heard before, other than the few really famous hits that are on the album though I wouldn't say much else grabs you and it seems that some really good songs from the Jackson 5 such as 'Blame it on The Boogie' have been left out.

Worth purchasing if your into them or just the famous songs otherwise possibly give it a miss. A nice addition to party music collections though.

Jackson 5 Classic, 08 Jun 2008
All the oldies and goldies plus a few lesser known songs. Takes me back to my teen years. I still listen to this music almost 40 years on which proves it has stood the test of time. It is not sheer sentimentality, this music is good. Since the Amazon reviewer brings up what she calls Michael's pre-identity crisis, I feel bound to say that in Michael's defence, he has a right to do with his face what he pleases, he does actually suffer from two diseases which both ravage the face. But hey I thought these were music reviewers! Buy it for the music, Michael's voice even at this age gives some idea of what is to come - the King of Pop.

Still legendary, 06 Jan 2004
Even though the Jackson 5 have long since split up and gone their seperate ways, their music still lives on, giving an oural example of their legendary performances and well written songs.

This album is, to put it bluntly, the best. With all the hits that make the Jackson 5 the Jackson 5 and make them stand out, the album is one of the best played on my stereo to date. Even if you aren't that big of a fan of these guys, it doesn't matter, the album is so easy going and "feel-good" anyone can enjoy it! And come on, for such a low price you get all these melodolic songs from years gone by, but never forgotten.

This album is the best of the jackson 5, 04 Dec 2000
Because its got all the greatest hits like I want you back and ABC.This album is the best jackson 5 album I have bought so far.I bought this since I have always like the jackson 5 and through I have always wanted their greatest hits on a album.All the songs have pop and R&B in it.Even If you are not a jackson 5 fan I still advise you to get this album because its the best.

Male divas rule, 10 Mar 2006
You want a mix of funk and soul from top names from Motown? Here's the pitch, the O'Jays were on the top of their music and benfited from top writors of the 70's. Sold to soul, righton brother! So they might have said on their day. Note the lack of expletives.

Brilliant!!, 24 Sep 2005
I loved this CD - if you are a fan of the Ojays then dont hesitate to buy it. In fact one copy got a bit too used so I bought another!! This led me to get the Favourite person/year 2000 by them too which is another hit with me. 'Darling Darling Baby' I never tire of hearing along with the other hits. Great!!

Brilliant Philadelphia soul group, 01 Mar 2005
The O' Jays came together in the 1958 but they failed to make any real impact until 1972, when they emerged as one of the leading Philly soul acts, along with the Three Degrees, Harold Melvin and the Blue notes, Billy Paul and others.

The O' Jays began their run of success with Back stabbers, a top three American hit and a top twenty UK hit, but it is their second hit, Love train (a plea for world harmony) that is their most memorable recording. It was the first of several songs they recorded that conveyed some kind of message and it also gave them their only UK top ten hit. Further international hits followed including I love music, Darling darling baby, Used ta be my girl, Brandy, Sing a happy song and Put our heads together.

The O' Jays continued to make music long after the Philly soul period ended, but it is those seventies recordings for which they will always be remembered. This compilation includes all of their classic hits from that golden age.

amazing, 28 Apr 2007
think it over- chorus upon chorus of honey layered perfection- emo fans check this one out it will blow your mind this time (sorry) but this is insanely smooth- but in a way bittersweet- atmospheric to a point of almost having an eerie (overlook hotel) ingredient. Slowed down orchestral groove heaven.

the cream of rare groove funk, 07 Mar 2007
Not only are the Delfonics one of the supreme bands of the rare groove scene, they also know how to produce a track listing to wet the appetite of the most discerning palete.
Even the great man Tarantino himself included a fine Delfonics track ,namely "Did'nt I blow your mind" which went down very well and fitted into the film (JACKIE BROWN )extremely well, it was almost as like the film was made for the track.
Needless to say anything by the Delfonics is a must in any CD collection.
No collection is complete without them.
All the best
Steve The Rare Groove Connection.

What was that great song in 'Jackie Brown'?, 23 May 2001
In Tarantino's 'Jackie Brown' the guy trying to pull Jackie gets in to her music to try and impress. The song in question is "Didn't I Blown Your Mind" by the Delfonics. On the strength of that song I picked up this compilation which is full of similar type stuff, but it doesn't get annoyingly samey. It's a kind of fun soul music and is a good pick-me-up.

A nice mix of Jackson's 5's biggest hits, 13 Aug 2008
I bought this to get a copy of their most famous fun hits such as ABC, I Want You Back and Rockin Robin and was pleased to find some other great songs that I hadn't heard before, other than the few really famous hits that are on the album though I wouldn't say much else grabs you and it seems that some really good songs from the Jackson 5 such as 'Blame it on The Boogie' have been left out.

Worth purchasing if your into them or just the famous songs otherwise possibly give it a miss. A nice addition to party music collections though.

Jackson 5 Classic, 08 Jun 2008
All the oldies and goldies plus a few lesser known songs. Takes me back to my teen years. I still listen to this music almost 40 years on which proves it has stood the test of time. It is not sheer sentimentality, this music is good. Since the Amazon reviewer brings up what she calls Michael's pre-identity crisis, I feel bound to say that in Michael's defence, he has a right to do with his face what he pleases, he does actually suffer from two diseases which both ravage the face. But hey I thought these were music reviewers! Buy it for the music, Michael's voice even at this age gives some idea of what is to come - the King of Pop.

Still legendary, 06 Jan 2004
Even though the Jackson 5 have long since split up and gone their seperate ways, their music still lives on, giving an oural example of their legendary performances and well written songs.

This album is, to put it bluntly, the best. With all the hits that make the Jackson 5 the Jackson 5 and make them stand out, the album is one of the best played on my stereo to date. Even if you aren't that big of a fan of these guys, it doesn't matter, the album is so easy going and "feel-good" anyone can enjoy it! And come on, for such a low price you get all these melodolic songs from years gone by, but never forgotten.

This album is the best of the jackson 5, 04 Dec 2000
Because its got all the greatest hits like I want you back and ABC.This album is the best jackson 5 album I have bought so far.I bought this since I have always like the jackson 5 and through I have always wanted their greatest hits on a album.All the songs have pop and R&B in it.Even If you are not a jackson 5 fan I still advise you to get this album because its the best.

Male divas rule, 10 Mar 2006
You want a mix of funk and soul from top names from Motown? Here's the pitch, the O'Jays were on the top of their music and benfited from top writors of the 70's. Sold to soul, righton brother! So they might have said on their day. Note the lack of expletives.

Brilliant!!, 24 Sep 2005
I loved this CD - if you are a fan of the Ojays then dont hesitate to buy it. In fact one copy got a bit too used so I bought another!! This led me to get the Favourite person/year 2000 by them too which is another hit with me. 'Darling Darling Baby' I never tire of hearing along with the other hits. Great!!

Brilliant Philadelphia soul group, 01 Mar 2005
The O' Jays came together in the 1958 but they failed to make any real impact until 1972, when they emerged as one of the leading Philly soul acts, along with the Three Degrees, Harold Melvin and the Blue notes, Billy Paul and others.

The O' Jays began their run of success with Back stabbers, a top three American hit and a top twenty UK hit, but it is their second hit, Love train (a plea for world harmony) that is their most memorable recording. It was the first of several songs they recorded that conveyed some kind of message and it also gave them their only UK top ten hit. Further international hits followed including I love music, Darling darling baby, Used ta be my girl, Brandy, Sing a happy song and Put our heads together.

The O' Jays continued to make music long after the Philly soul period ended, but it is those seventies recordings for which they will always be remembered. This compilation includes all of their classic hits from that golden age.

...a dream collection of smooth soul..., 14 Jun 2007
It's the 60th birthday of Atlantic records which is just the sort of excuse owners Warners need to chuck a pile of compilations at the wall to see what sticks. But hold hard! Don't go away just yet.

In a virtually unheard of, treating the catalogue with respect type move, they've got one of their other minions to take care of business. In this case, reissue specialists Rhino. Which means that when you scrape the muck of the wall you find a dream compilation like this.

The Spinners, despite some massive hits, have been horrendously under rated over the years, and this 20 tracker goes some way towards reclaiming their place at the top table of soulful vocal groups. Kicking off with their two bona fide classics 'I'll Be Around' and 'Could It Be I'm Falling In Love', we then head off on a trip full of sublime soul. We get 'I'm Coming Home', their duet with Dionne Warwick, 'Then Caae You', 'You're Throwing A Good Love Away' and more three minute gems than you can shake the proverbial stick at.

This is the prize in the collection, only let down by an absence of any decent sleeve notes. But at a rock bottom budget price, you simply have to own this.

amazing, 28 Apr 2007
think it over- chorus upon chorus of honey layered perfection- emo fans check this one out it will blow your mind this time (sorry) but this is insanely smooth- but in a way bittersweet- atmospheric to a point of almost having an eerie (overlook hotel) ingredient. Slowed down orchestral groove heaven.

the cream of rare groove funk, 07 Mar 2007
Not only are the Delfonics one of the supreme bands of the rare groove scene, they also know how to produce a track listing to wet the appetite of the most discerning palete.
Even the great man Tarantino himself included a fine Delfonics track ,namely "Did'nt I blow your mind" which went down very well and fitted into the film (JACKIE BROWN )extremely well, it was almost as like the film was made for the track.
Needless to say anything by the Delfonics is a must in any CD collection.
No collection is complete without them.
All the best
Steve The Rare Groove Connection.

What was that great song in 'Jackie Brown'?, 23 May 2001
In Tarantino's 'Jackie Brown' the guy trying to pull Jackie gets in to her music to try and impress. The song in question is "Didn't I Blown Your Mind" by the Delfonics. On the strength of that song I picked up this compilation which is full of similar type stuff, but it doesn't get annoyingly samey. It's a kind of fun soul music and is a good pick-me-up.

A nice mix of Jackson's 5's biggest hits, 13 Aug 2008
I bought this to get a copy of their most famous fun hits such as ABC, I Want You Back and Rockin Robin and was pleased to find some other great songs that I hadn't heard before, other than the few really famous hits that are on the album though I wouldn't say much else grabs you and it seems that some really good songs from the Jackson 5 such as 'Blame it on The Boogie' have been left out.

Worth purchasing if your into them or just the famous songs otherwise possibly give it a miss. A nice addition to party music collections though.

Jackson 5 Classic, 08 Jun 2008
All the oldies and goldies plus a few lesser known songs. Takes me back to my teen years. I still listen to this music almost 40 years on which proves it has stood the test of time. It is not sheer sentimentality, this music is good. Since the Amazon reviewer brings up what she calls Michael's pre-identity crisis, I feel bound to say that in Michael's defence, he has a right to do with his face what he pleases, he does actually suffer from two diseases which both ravage the face. But hey I thought these were music reviewers! Buy it for the music, Michael's voice even at this age gives some idea of what is to come - the King of Pop.

Still legendary, 06 Jan 2004
Even though the Jackson 5 have long since split up and gone their seperate ways, their music still lives on, giving an oural example of their legendary performances and well written songs.

This album is, to put it bluntly, the best. With all the hits that make the Jackson 5 the Jackson 5 and make them stand out, the album is one of the best played on my stereo to date. Even if you aren't that big of a fan of these guys, it doesn't matter, the album is so easy going and "feel-good" anyone can enjoy it! And come on, for such a low price you get all these melodolic songs from years gone by, but never forgotten.

This album is the best of the jackson 5, 04 Dec 2000
Because its got all the greatest hits like I want you back and ABC.This album is the best jackson 5 album I have bought so far.I bought this since I have always like the jackson 5 and through I have always wanted their greatest hits on a album.All the songs have pop and R&B in it.Even If you are not a jackson 5 fan I still advise you to get this album because its the best.

Male divas rule, 10 Mar 2006
You want a mix of funk and soul from top names from Motown? Here's the pitch, the O'Jays were on the top of their music and benfited from top writors of the 70's. Sold to soul, righton brother! So they might have said on their day. Note the lack of expletives.

Brilliant!!, 24 Sep 2005
I loved this CD - if you are a fan of the Ojays then dont hesitate to buy it. In fact one copy got a bit too used so I bought another!! This led me to get the Favourite person/year 2000 by them too which is another hit with me. 'Darling Darling Baby' I never tire of hearing along with the other hits. Great!!

Brilliant Philadelphia soul group, 01 Mar 2005
The O' Jays came together in the 1958 but they failed to make any real impact until 1972, when they emerged as one of the leading Philly soul acts, along with the Three Degrees, Harold Melvin and the Blue notes, Billy Paul and others.

The O' Jays began their run of success with Back stabbers, a top three American hit and a top twenty UK hit, but it is their second hit, Love train (a plea for world harmony) that is their most memorable recording. It was the first of several songs they recorded that conveyed some kind of message and it also gave them their only UK top ten hit. Further international hits followed including I love music, Darling darling baby, Used ta be my girl, Brandy, Sing a happy song and Put our heads together.

The O' Jays continued to make music long after the Philly soul period ended, but it is those seventies recordings for which they will always be remembered. This compilation includes all of their classic hits from that golden age.

...a dream collection of smooth soul..., 14 Jun 2007
It's the 60th birthday of Atlantic records which is just the sort of excuse owners Warners need to chuck a pile of compilations at the wall to see what sticks. But hold hard! Don't go away just yet.

In a virtually unheard of, treating the catalogue with respect type move, they've got one of their other minions to take care of business. In this case, reissue specialists Rhino. Which means that when you scrape the muck of the wall you find a dream compilation like this.

The Spinners, despite some massive hits, have been horrendously under rated over the years, and this 20 tracker goes some way towards reclaiming their place at the top table of soulful vocal groups. Kicking off with their two bona fide classics 'I'll Be Around' and 'Could It Be I'm Falling In Love', we then head off on a trip full of sublime soul. We get 'I'm Coming Home', their duet with Dionne Warwick, 'Then Caae You', 'You're Throwing A Good Love Away' and more three minute gems than you can shake the proverbial stick at.

This is the prize in the collection, only let down by an absence of any decent sleeve notes. But at a rock bottom budget price, you simply have to own this.

fantastic group, fantastic collection, 12 Nov 2008
this is one of my most played cds..still. they are such a slick trio, and a lot of quality is on this cd. even today, with a different line up, you would be hard pressed to find a more slick group.

Lasted longer in Europe than America, 19 May 2004
The Three Degrees were one of the most successful groups to emerge from the Philadelphia soul scene in the seventies. Their American success was limited to their Philly sound period but they continued to have success in Europe, particularly Britain, for a few years after that. Their music is a wonderful mix of ballads and up-tempo material but may generally be described as easy-listening disco music.

This collection contains most of their British and American hits, including TSOP (their only American number one hit) and When will I see you again (their only British number one hit). Both those tracks are from their Philly sound period, which is also represented here by other great songs including Dirty old man, Year of decision and Take good care of yourself, the last two of which charted high in the UK.

After they switched labels to Ariola, their British hits included Golden lady, Jump the gun, Giving up giving in, Woman in love, The runner and My simple heart.

A few minor hits are missing but all the essentials are here. This is not the strongest ever collection of their music released on CD, but it is as good as anything else available as I write this review.

funky disco beats., 11 Jun 2001
a classic album for any disco goer with a history. It combines soulful ballads such as 'when will i see you again' with funky disco beats as in 'red light', my personal favourite. Their effortless voices mixed with catchy rhythms and melodies make this an unforgettable blast of serious 60's music.

Christmastime is a time when families get together and sing a few old favorites to raise some seasonal cheer. That's exactly the spirit you'll hear on the Jackson family's holiday gathering--albeit with a few more eye-popping performances than in most home get-togethers. Michael, Jermaine, Tito, and their sibs flash energy and enthusiasm aplenty on old-time faves such as "Up on the Housetop" and "I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus." And even when they take things down a notch for ballads like "Christmas Won't Be the Same" and "Give Love on Christmas Day," the affection and tenderness shine through in the way they can only at a true family celebration. --David Sprague

amazing, 28 Apr 2007
think it over- chorus upon chorus of honey layered perfection- emo fans check this one out it will blow your mind this time (sorry) but this is insanely smooth- but in a way bittersweet- atmospheric to a point of almost having an eerie (overlook hotel) ingredient. Slowed down orchestral groove heaven.

the cream of rare groove funk, 07 Mar 2007
Not only are the Delfonics one of the supreme bands of the rare groove scene, they also know how to produce a track listing to wet the appetite of the most discerning palete.
Even the great man Tarantino himself included a fine Delfonics track ,namely "Did'nt I blow your mind" which went down very well and fitted into the film (JACKIE BROWN )extremely well, it was almost as like the film was made for the track.
Needless to say anything by the Delfonics is a must in any CD collection.
No collection is complete without them.
All the best
Steve The Rare Groove Connection.

What was that great song in 'Jackie Brown'?, 23 May 2001
In Tarantino's 'Jackie Brown' the guy trying to pull Jackie gets in to her music to try and impress. The song in question is "Didn't I Blown Your Mind" by the Delfonics. On the strength of that song I picked up this compilation which is full of similar type stuff, but it doesn't get annoyingly samey. It's a kind of fun soul music and is a good pick-me-up.

A nice mix of Jackson's 5's biggest hits, 13 Aug 2008
I bought this to get a copy of their most famous fun hits such as ABC, I Want You Back and Rockin Robin and was pleased to find some other great songs that I hadn't heard before, other than the few really famous hits that are on the album though I wouldn't say much else grabs you and it seems that some really good songs from the Jackson 5 such as 'Blame it on The Boogie' have been left out.

Worth purchasing if your into them or just the famous songs otherwise possibly give it a miss. A nice addition to party music collections though.

Jackson 5 Classic, 08 Jun 2008
All the oldies and goldies plus a few lesser known songs. Takes me back to my teen years. I still listen to this music almost 40 years on which proves it has stood the test of time. It is not sheer sentimentality, this music is good. Since the Amazon reviewer brings up what she calls Michael's pre-identity crisis, I feel bound to say that in Michael's defence, he has a right to do with his face what he pleases, he does actually suffer from two diseases which both ravage the face. But hey I thought these were music reviewers! Buy it for the music, Michael's voice even at this age gives some idea of what is to come - the King of Pop.

Still legendary, 06 Jan 2004
Even though the Jackson 5 have long since split up and gone their seperate ways, their music still lives on, giving an oural example of their legendary performances and well written songs.

This album is, to put it bluntly, the best. With all the hits that make the Jackson 5 the Jackson 5 and make them stand out, the album is one of the best played on my stereo to date. Even if you aren't that big of a fan of these guys, it doesn't matter, the album is so easy going and "feel-good" anyone can enjoy it! And come on, for such a low price you get all these melodolic songs from years gone by, but never forgotten.

This album is the best of the jackson 5, 04 Dec 2000
Because its got all the greatest hits like I want you back and ABC.This album is the best jackson 5 album I have bought so far.I bought this since I have always like the jackson 5 and through I have always wanted their greatest hits on a album.All the songs have pop and R&B in it.Even If you are not a jackson 5 fan I still advise you to get this album because its the best.

Male divas rule, 10 Mar 2006
You want a mix of funk and soul from top names from Motown? Here's the pitch, the O'Jays were on the top of their music and benfited from top writors of the 70's. Sold to soul, righton brother! So they might have said on their day. Note the lack of expletives.

Brilliant!!, 24 Sep 2005
I loved this CD - if you are a fan of the Ojays then dont hesitate to buy it. In fact one copy got a bit too used so I bought another!! This led me to get the Favourite person/year 2000 by them too which is another hit with me. 'Darling Darling Baby' I never tire of hearing along with the other hits. Great!!

Brilliant Philadelphia soul group, 01 Mar 2005
The O' Jays came together in the 1958 but they failed to make any real impact until 1972, when they emerged as one of the leading Philly soul acts, along with the Three Degrees, Harold Melvin and the Blue notes, Billy Paul and others.

The O' Jays began their run of success with Back stabbers, a top three American hit and a top twenty UK hit, but it is their second hit, Love train (a plea for world harmony) that is their most memorable recording. It was the first of several songs they recorded that conveyed some kind of message and it also gave them their only UK top ten hit. Further international hits followed including I love music, Darling darling baby, Used ta be my girl, Brandy, Sing a happy song and Put our heads together.

The O' Jays continued to make music long after the Philly soul period ended, but it is those seventies recordings for which they will always be remembered. This compilation includes all of their classic hits from that golden age.

...a dream collection of smooth soul..., 14 Jun 2007
It's the 60th birthday of Atlantic records which is just the sort of excuse owners Warners need to chuck a pile of compilations at the wall to see what sticks. But hold hard! Don't go away just yet.

In a virtually unheard of, treating the catalogue with respect type move, they've got one of their other minions to take care of business. In this case, reissue specialists Rhino. Which means that when you scrape the muck of the wall you find a dream compilation like this.

The Spinners, despite some massive hits, have been horrendously under rated over the years, and this 20 tracker goes some way towards reclaiming their place at the top table of soulful vocal groups. Kicking off with their two bona fide classics 'I'll Be Around' and 'Could It Be I'm Falling In Love', we then head off on a trip full of sublime soul. We get 'I'm Coming Home', their duet with Dionne Warwick, 'Then Caae You', 'You're Throwing A Good Love Away' and more three minute gems than you can shake the proverbial stick at.

This is the prize in the collection, only let down by an absence of any decent sleeve notes. But at a rock bottom budget price, you simply have to own this.

fantastic group, fantastic collection, 12 Nov 2008
this is one of my most played cds..still. they are such a slick trio, and a lot of quality is on this cd. even today, with a different line up, you would be hard pressed to find a more slick group.

Lasted longer in Europe than America, 19 May 2004
The Three Degrees were one of the most successful groups to emerge from the Philadelphia soul scene in the seventies. Their American success was limited to their Philly sound period but they continued to have success in Europe, particularly Britain, for a few years after that. Their music is a wonderful mix of ballads and up-tempo material but may generally be described as easy-listening disco music.

This collection contains most of their British and American hits, including TSOP (their only American number one hit) and When will I see you again (their only British number one hit). Both those tracks are from their Philly sound period, which is also represented here by other great songs including Dirty old man, Year of decision and Take good care of yourself, the last two of which charted high in the UK.

After they switched labels to Ariola, their British hits included Golden lady, Jump the gun, Giving up giving in, Woman in love, The runner and My simple heart.

A few minor hits are missing but all the essentials are here. This is not the strongest ever collection of their music released on CD, but it is as good as anything else available as I write this review.

funky disco beats., 11 Jun 2001
a classic album for any disco goer with a history. It combines soulful ballads such as 'when will i see you again' with funky disco beats as in 'red light', my personal favourite. Their effortless voices mixed with catchy rhythms and melodies make this an unforgettable blast of serious 60's music.

Classic Soul, 25 Oct 2008
Soul music had several regional centres in the `60's, and there was a distinctive sound from each, notably Detroit, and Memphis, but also in Muscle Shoals and Chicago. Equally, several labels became synonymous with a Soul sound, Motown, Stax and Atlantic, 3 of the best known.

In late 60's Philadelphia, Thom Bell was producing and arranging for the Delfonics, adding elements not normally associated with Soul vocal groups, and in doing so, providing a blueprint for what became known as Sweet Soul. Bell carried this sound with him to The Stylistics, where his writing and arranging with Linda Creed, together with the Groups vocals, created a major stir with their first album on the Atco label in 1970. Both groups feature strongly here, including all their early hits.

At the same time Gamble and Huff were working their magic on groups like The O'Jays, and Harold Melvin & the Bluenotes, both established groups who were looking for their breakthrough. That would come in 1972, with the release of "Backstabbers" and "If You Don't Know Me..." heralding a run of success for the Philadelphia International label which would last for a decade or more. Following them would come artists like Billy Paul, a jazz singer who enjoyed enormous success with "Me and Mrs Jones", The 3 Degrees, MFSB (the PI house band) and many more. Many, if not most of the labels hits are included here.

With the Philly Sound riding high, producers and artists were drawn to find out whether they could share in that success - this had brought artists as diverse as Dusty Springfield and Jerry Butler to Philadelphia in the `60's and Atlantic had sent Wilson Pickett to step out of his Southern Soul groove with "Don't Let The Green Grass Fool You" (all on disc 1). Newly signed to Atlantic following their inauspicious Motown career, The Spinners (Detroit Spinners in the UK), came to work with Thom Bell. The result was one of the finest Soul albums of the `70's, which provided 3 massive crossover hits, of which "I'll Be Around" is included here. They would follow that gold album with 5 more in the coming years, and a string of awards, including a Grammy for Thom Bell for Best Producer in 1974.

As the `70's moved on so the hits just kept coming, especially for the Philadelphia International label, and disc 3 contains hits almost exclusively from that label, as diverse in sound as the O'Jay's impassioned "Let Me Make Love To You" , a slice of old school Soul, to the proto Disco of Archie Bell and the Drills' "Lets Groove" and the social commentary of Harold Melvin's "Wake Up everybody", which still retains it's power and message today.

The later years of the Philly saw a less distinctive sound, but the success didn't end, with the O'Jays still up there, along with Teddy Pendergrass (who became a major star after leaving the Bluenotes), The Manhattans and McFadden & Whitehead, with their anthem "Ain't No Stoppin' Us Now". This is not all there is to the story though, as there were countless artists, throughout these years, who added to the Sound, but who never quite made superstardom - bands like The Intruders, Trammps and Peoples Choice, artists like Joe Simon and William DeVaughn, all of whom are featured here. Among those less famous artists were The Ebonys, and their "It's Forever" is on disc 2 - worth buying this set for on its own if you are a Soul fan.

So this is the story of Philadelphia Soul, of a city that found a sound, that mined a rich creative seam and staked a claim as one of the most influential labels of Soul. I could quibble about some of the track selections (I'd have had more from the early '70's, especially the Spinners), but credit the compilers for including some of the less well known names. This is a wonderful reminder of what can happen when a bunch of talented people get together, what superb music they can create, and is recommended for anyone who remembers those years, for anyone who wants to check out some of the sounds beyond the hits, or for anyone who loves Soul and who may have lost their copies of these tracks.


Outstanding Philly soul compilation, 07 Mar 2005
Whereas Motown and Atlantic dominated soul music in the late sixties, other labels gave them much stiffer competition in the seventies, especially Philadelphia International, the source of the tracks for this compilation.

All the big Philly stars are here (eight tracks including Back stabbers and Love train), Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes (five tracks including If you don't know me by now and Don't leave me this way), Billy Paul (four tracks including Me and Mrs Jones) and the Three Degrees (five tracks counting those backing MFSP, including When will I see you again).

Other famous tracks here include You'll never find another love like mine (Lou Rawls), Soul city walk (Archie Bell and the Drells), Ain't no stopping us now (McFadden and Whitehead) and Show you the way to go (Jacksons).

With forty-five tracks altogether, this offers a comprehensive overview of the sound of Philadelphia, as it was in the seventies.

amazing, 28 Apr 2007
think it over- chorus upon chorus of honey layered perfection- emo fans check this one out it will blow your mind this time (sorry) but this is insanely smooth- but in a way bittersweet- atmospheric to a point of almost having an eerie (overlook hotel) ingredient. Slowed down orchestral groove heaven.

the cream of rare groove funk, 07 Mar 2007
Not only are the Delfonics one of the supreme bands of the rare groove scene, they also know how to produce a track listing to wet the appetite of the most discerning palete.
Even the great man Tarantino himself included a fine Delfonics track ,namely "Did'nt I blow your mind" which went down very well and fitted into the film (JACKIE BROWN )extremely well, it was almost as like the film was made for the track.
Needless to say anything by the Delfonics is a must in any CD collection.
No collection is complete without them.
All the best
Steve The Rare Groove Connection.

What was that great song in 'Jackie Brown'?, 23 May 2001
In Tarantino's 'Jackie Brown' the guy trying to pull Jackie gets in to her music to try and impress. The song in question is "Didn't I Blown Your Mind" by the Delfonics. On the strength of that song I picked up this compilation which is full of similar type stuff, but it doesn't get annoyingly samey. It's a kind of fun soul music and is a good pick-me-up.

A nice mix of Jackson's 5's biggest hits, 13 Aug 2008
I bought this to get a copy of their most famous fun hits such as ABC, I Want You Back and Rockin Robin and was pleased to find some other great songs that I hadn't heard before, other than the few really famous hits that are on the album though I wouldn't say much else grabs you and it seems that some really good songs from the Jackson 5 such as 'Blame it on The Boogie' have been left out.

Worth purchasing if your into them or just the famous songs otherwise possibly give it a miss. A nice addition to party music collections though.

Jackson 5 Classic, 08 Jun 2008
All the oldies and goldies plus a few lesser known songs. Takes me back to my teen years. I still listen to this music almost 40 years on which proves it has stood the test of time. It is not sheer sentimentality, this music is good. Since the Amazon reviewer brings up what she calls Michael's pre-identity crisis, I feel bound to say that in Michael's defence, he has a right to do with his face what he pleases, he does actually suffer from two diseases which both ravage the face. But hey I thought these were music reviewers! Buy it for the music, Michael's voice even at this age gives some idea of what is to come - the King of Pop.

Still legendary, 06 Jan 2004
Even though the Jackson 5 have long since split up and gone their seperate ways, their music still lives on, giving an oural example of their legendary performances and well written songs.

This album is, to put it bluntly, the best. With all the hits that make the Jackson 5 the Jackson 5 and make them stand out, the album is one of the best played on my stereo to date. Even if you aren't that big of a fan of these guys, it doesn't matter, the album is so easy going and "feel-good" anyone can enjoy it! And come on, for such a low price you get all these melodolic songs from years gone by, but never forgotten.

This album is the best of the jackson 5, 04 Dec 2000
Because its got all the greatest hits like I want you back and ABC.This album is the best jackson 5 album I have bought so far.I bought this since I have always like the jackson 5 and through I have always wanted their greatest hits on a album.All the songs have pop and R&B in it.Even If you are not a jackson 5 fan I still advise you to get this album because its the best.

Male divas rule, 10 Mar 2006
You want a mix of funk and soul from top names from Motown? Here's the pitch, the O'Jays were on the top of their music and benfited from top writors of the 70's. Sold to soul, righton brother! So they might have said on their day. Note the lack of expletives.

Brilliant!!, 24 Sep 2005
I loved this CD - if you are a fan of the Ojays then dont hesitate to buy it. In fact one copy got a bit too used so I bought another!! This led me to get the Favourite person/year 2000 by them too which is another hit with me. 'Darling Darling Baby' I never tire of hearing along with the other hits. Great!!

Brilliant Philadelphia soul group, 01 Mar 2005
The O' Jays came together in the 1958 but they failed to make any real impact until 1972, when they emerged as one of the leading Philly soul acts, along with the Three Degrees, Harold Melvin and the Blue notes, Billy Paul and others.

The O' Jays began their run of success with Back stabbers, a top three American hit and a top twenty UK hit, but it is their second hit, Love train (a plea for world harmony) that is their most memorable recording. It was the first of several songs they recorded that conveyed some kind of message and it also gave them their only UK top ten hit. Further international hits followed including I love music, Darling darling baby, Used ta be my girl, Brandy, Sing a happy song and Put our heads together.

The O' Jays continued to make music long after the Philly soul period ended, but it is those seventies recordings for which they will always be remembered. This compilation includes all of their classic hits from that golden age.

...a dream collection of smooth soul..., 14 Jun 2007
It's the 60th birthday of Atlantic records which is just the sort of excuse owners Warners need to chuck a pile of compilations at the wall to see what sticks. But hold hard! Don't go away just yet.

In a virtually unheard of, treating the catalogue with respect type move, they've got one of their other minions to take care of business. In this case, reissue specialists Rhino. Which means that when you scrape the muck of the wall you find a dream compilation like this.

The Spinners, despite some massive hits, have been horrendously under rated over the years, and this 20 tracker goes some way towards reclaiming their place at the top table of soulful vocal groups. Kicking off with their two bona fide classics 'I'll Be Around' and 'Could It Be I'm Falling In Love', we then head off on a trip full of sublime soul. We get 'I'm Coming Home', their duet with Dionne Warwick, 'Then Caae You', 'You're Throwing A Good Love Away' and more three minute gems than you can shake the proverbial stick at.

This is the prize in the collection, only let down by an absence of any decent sleeve notes. But at a rock bottom budget price, you simply have to own this.

fantastic group, fantastic collection, 12 Nov 2008
this is one of my most played cds..still. they are such a slick trio, and a lot of quality is on this cd. even today, with a different line up, you would be hard pressed to find a more slick group.

Lasted longer in Europe than America, 19 May 2004
The Three Degrees were one of the most successful groups to emerge from the Philadelphia soul scene in the seventies. Their American success was limited to their Philly sound period but they continued to have success in Europe, particularly Britain, for a few years after that. Their music is a wonderful mix of ballads and up-tempo material but may generally be described as easy-listening disco music.

This collection contains most of their British and American hits, including TSOP (their only American number one hit) and When will I see you again (their only British number one hit). Both those tracks are from their Philly sound period, which is also represented here by other great songs including Dirty old man, Year of decision and Take good care of yourself, the last two of which charted high in the UK.

After they switched labels to Ariola, their British hits included Golden lady, Jump the gun, Giving up giving in, Woman in love, The runner and My simple heart.

A few minor hits are missing but all the essentials are here. This is not the strongest ever collection of their music released on CD, but it is as good as anything else available as I write this review.

funky disco beats., 11 Jun 2001
a classic album for any disco goer with a history. It combines soulful ballads such as 'when will i see you again' with funky disco beats as in 'red light', my personal favourite. Their effortless voices mixed with catchy rhythms and melodies make this an unforgettable blast of serious 60's music.

Classic Soul, 25 Oct 2008
Soul music had several regional centres in the `60's, and there was a distinctive sound from each, notably Detroit, and Memphis, but also in Muscle Shoals and Chicago. Equally, several labels became synonymous with a Soul sound, Motown, Stax and Atlantic, 3 of the best known.

In late 60's Philadelphia, Thom Bell was producing and arranging for the Delfonics, adding elements not normally associated with Soul vocal groups, and in doing so, providing a blueprint for what became known as Sweet Soul. Bell carried this sound with him to The Stylistics, where his writing and arranging with Linda Creed, together with the Groups vocals, created a major stir with their first album on the Atco label in 1970. Both groups feature strongly here, including all their early hits.

At the same time Gamble and Huff were working their magic on groups like The O'Jays, and Harold Melvin & the Bluenotes, both established groups who were looking for their breakthrough. That would come in 1972, with the release of "Backstabbers" and "If You Don't Know Me..." heralding a run of success for the Philadelphia International label which would last for a decade or more. Following them would come artists like Billy Paul, a jazz singer who enjoyed enormous success with "Me and Mrs Jones", The 3 Degrees, MFSB (the PI house band) and many more. Many, if not most of the labels hits are included here.

With the Philly Sound riding high, producers and artists were drawn to find out whether they could share in that success - this had brought artists as diverse as Dusty Springfield and Jerry Butler to Philadelphia in the `60's and Atlantic had sent Wilson Pickett to step out of his Southern Soul groove with "Don't Let The Green Grass Fool You" (all on disc 1). Newly signed to Atlantic following their inauspicious Motown career, The Spinners (Detroit Spinners in the UK), came to work with Thom Bell. The result was one of the finest Soul albums of the `70's, which provided 3 massive crossover hits, of which "I'll Be Around" is included here. They would follow that gold album with 5 more in the coming years, and a string of awards, including a Grammy for Thom Bell for Best Producer in 1974.

As the `70's moved on so the hits just kept coming, especially for the Philadelphia International label, and disc 3 contains hits almost exclusively from that label, as diverse in sound as the O'Jay's impassioned "Let Me Make Love To You" , a slice of old school Soul, to the proto Disco of Archie Bell and the Drills' "Lets Groove" and the social commentary of Harold Melvin's "Wake Up everybody", which still retains it's power and message today.

The later years of the Philly saw a less distinctive sound, but the success didn't end, with the O'Jays still up there, along with Teddy Pendergrass (who became a major star after leaving the Bluenotes), The Manhattans and McFadden & Whitehead, with their anthem "Ain't No Stoppin' Us Now". This is not all there is to the story though, as there were countless artists, throughout these years, who added to the Sound, but who never quite made superstardom - bands like The Intruders, Trammps and Peoples Choice, artists like Joe Simon and William DeVaughn, all of whom are featured here. Among those less famous artists were The Ebonys, and their "It's Forever" is on disc 2 - worth buying this set for on its own if you are a Soul fan.

So this is the story of Philadelphia Soul, of a city that found a sound, that mined a rich creative seam and staked a claim as one of the most influential labels of Soul. I could quibble about some of the track selections (I'd have had more from the early '70's, especially the Spinners), but credit the compilers for including some of the less well known names. This is a wonderful reminder of what can happen when a bunch of talented people get together, what superb music they can create, and is recommended for anyone who remembers those years, for anyone who wants to check out some of the sounds beyond the hits, or for anyone who loves Soul and who may have lost their copies of these tracks.


Outstanding Philly soul compilation, 07 Mar 2005
Whereas Motown and Atlantic dominated soul music in the late sixties, other labels gave them much stiffer competition in the seventies, especially Philadelphia International, the source of the tracks for this compilation.

All the big Philly stars are here (eight tracks including Back stabbers and Love train), Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes (five tracks including If you don't know me by now and Don't leave me this way), Billy Paul (four tracks including Me and Mrs Jones) and the Three Degrees (five tracks counting those backing MFSP, including When will I see you again).

Other famous tracks here include You'll never find another love like mine (Lou Rawls), Soul city walk (Archie Bell and the Drells), Ain't no stopping us now (McFadden and Whitehead) and Show you the way to go (Jacksons).

With forty-five tracks altogether, this offers a comprehensive overview of the sound of Philadelphia, as it was in the seventies.

Soul at its best, 16 Feb 2007
The recent passing of Wilson gives the music listener a chance to take stock of the subjects work. Wilson was probably underated by the public. However when one counts up his songs he left us with a golden legacy. Included here are In the midnight hour, land of 1000 dances. Mustang Sally, 634-5789 and his rendition of The Beatles classic Hey Jude which was a surprise top 20 hit in 1969. Also on this set is the beautiful I`m in love. If you are into soul music this is a top c.d. to own.

Wilson Pickett at his soulful best!, 30 Jun 2001
This is a fine soul album containing sixteen tracks of Wilson Pickett at his best, opening with what many would consider his signature tune 'In The Midnight Hour'. 'Land Of A Thousand Dances' with big punchy brass, and the slower 'Mustang Sally' showing Pickett in great voice - the big band backing and the backing vocals are excellent - this is a rhythm and blues classic! 'I'm as happy as a man can be' sings Wilson with great conviction on Bobby Womack's 'I'm In Love' which he performs superbly. 'She's Lookin' Good' is a funky number with great interplay between guitar and Pickett's vocals throughout the song. There has been some decent covers of Beatles songs, and some not so decent, but Wilson Pickett does justice to 'Hey Jude' and he is helped out by Duane Allman's (Allman Brothers Band and Derek And The Dominoes) guitar work -yeah, nice one! A great intro leads the listener into 'Engine Number 9' where so much is going on musically throughout this song which is truly fascinating stuff - this is good! Well worth a mention is the moving 'Don't Let The Green Grass Fool You' - a good song sung with loads of feeling. Taking Andy Fraser and Paul Rodgers' (Of Free) 'Fire And Water' and making it completely his own works very well. This is a good album of quality material, some of it classic. A welcome cd to my collection. Recommended.

amazing, 28 Apr 2007
think it over- chorus upon chorus of honey layered perfection- emo fans check this one out it will blow your mind this time (sorry) but this is insanely smooth- but in a way bittersweet- atmospheric to a point of almost having an eerie (overlook hotel) ingredient. Slowed down orchestral groove heaven.

the cream of rare groove funk, 07 Mar 2007
Not only are the Delfonics one of the supreme bands of the rare groove scene, they also know how to produce a track listing to wet the appetite of the most discerning palete.
Even the great man Tarantino himself included a fine Delfonics track ,namely "Did'nt I blow your mind" which went down very well and fitted into the film (JACKIE BROWN )extremely well, it was almost as like the film was made for the track.
Needless to say anything by the Delfonics is a must in any CD collection.
No collection is complete without them.
All the best
Steve The Rare Groove Connection.

What was that great song in 'Jackie Brown'?, 23 May 2001
In Tarantino's 'Jackie Brown' the guy trying to pull Jackie gets in to her music to try and impress. The song in question is "Didn't I Blown Your Mind" by the Delfonics. On the strength of that song I picked up this compilation which is full of similar type stuff, but it doesn't get annoyingly samey. It's a kind of fun soul music and is a good pick-me-up.

A nice mix of Jackson's 5's biggest hits, 13 Aug 2008
I bought this to get a copy of their most famous fun hits such as ABC, I Want You Back and Rockin Robin and was pleased to find some other great songs that I hadn't heard before, other than the few really famous hits that are on the album though I wouldn't say much else grabs you and it seems that some really good songs from the Jackson 5 such as 'Blame it on The Boogie' have been left out.

Worth purchasing if your into them or just the famous songs otherwise possibly give it a miss. A nice addition to party music collections though.

Jackson 5 Classic, 08 Jun 2008
All the oldies and goldies plus a few lesser known songs. Takes me back to my teen years. I still listen to this music almost 40 years on which proves it has stood the test of time. It is not sheer sentimentality, this music is good. Since the Amazon reviewer brings up what she calls Michael's pre-identity crisis, I feel bound to say that in Michael's defence, he has a right to do with his face what he pleases, he does actually suffer from two diseases which both ravage the face. But hey I thought these were music reviewers! Buy it for the music, Michael's voice even at this age gives some idea of what is to come - the King of Pop.

Still legendary, 06 Jan 2004
Even though the Jackson 5 have long since split up and gone their seperate ways, their music still lives on, giving an oural example of their legendary performances and well written songs.

This album is, to put it bluntly, the best. With all the hits that make the Jackson 5 the Jackson 5 and make them stand out, the album is one of the best played on my stereo to date. Even if you aren't that big of a fan of these guys, it doesn't matter, the album is so easy going and "feel-good" anyone can enjoy it! And come on, for such a low price you get all these melodolic songs from years gone by, but never forgotten.

This album is the best of the jackson 5, 04 Dec 2000
Because its got all the greatest hits like I want you back and ABC.This album is the best jackson 5 album I have bought so far.I bought this since I have always like the jackson 5 and through I have always wanted their greatest hits on a album.All the songs have pop and R&B in it.Even If you are not a jackson 5 fan I still advise you to get this album because its the best.

Male divas rule, 10 Mar 2006
You want a mix of funk and soul from top names from Motown? Here's the pitch, the O'Jays were on the top of their music and benfited from top writors of the 70's. Sold to soul, righton brother! So they might have said on their day. Note the lack of expletives.

Brilliant!!, 24 Sep 2005
I loved this CD - if you are a fan of the Ojays then dont hesitate to buy it. In fact one copy got a bit too used so I bought another!! This led me to get the Favourite person/year 2000 by them too which is another hit with me. 'Darling Darling Baby' I never tire of hearing along with the other hits. Great!!

Brilliant Philadelphia soul group, 01 Mar 2005
The O' Jays came together in the 1958 but they failed to make any real impact until 1972, when they emerged as one of the leading Philly soul acts, along with the Three Degrees, Harold Melvin and the Blue notes, Billy Paul and others.

The O' Jays began their run of success with Back stabbers, a top three American hit and a top twenty UK hit, but it is their second hit, Love train (a plea for world harmony) that is their most memorable recording. It was the first of several songs they recorded that conveyed some kind of message and it also gave them their only UK top ten hit. Further international hits followed including I love music, Darling darling baby, Used ta be my girl, Brandy, Sing a happy song and Put our heads together.

The O' Jays continued to make music long after the Philly soul period ended, but it is those seventies recordings for which they will always be remembered. This compilation includes all of their classic hits from that golden age.

...a dream collection of smooth soul..., 14 Jun 2007
It's the 60th birthday of Atlantic records which is just the sort of excuse owners Warners need to chuck a pile of compilations at the wall to see what sticks. But hold hard! Don't go away just yet.

In a virtually unheard of, treating the catalogue with respect type move, they've got one of their other minions to take care of business. In this case, reissue specialists Rhino. Which means that when you scrape the muck of the wall you find a dream compilation like this.

The Spinners, despite some massive hits, have been horrendously under rated over the years, and this 20 tracker goes some way towards reclaiming their place at the top table of soulful vocal groups. Kicking off with their two bona fide classics 'I'll Be Around' and 'Could It Be I'm Falling In Love', we then head off on a trip full of sublime soul. We get 'I'm Coming Home', their duet with Dionne Warwick, 'Then Caae You', 'You're Throwing A Good Love Away' and more three minute gems than you can shake the proverbial stick at.

This is the prize in the collection, only let down by an absence of any decent sleeve notes. But at a rock bottom budget price, you simply have to own this.

fantastic group, fantastic collection, 12 Nov 2008
this is one of my most played cds..still. they are such a slick trio, and a lot of quality is on this cd. even today, with a different line up, you would be hard pressed to find a more slick group.

Lasted longer in Europe than America, 19 May 2004
The Three Degrees were one of the most successful groups to emerge from the Philadelphia soul scene in the seventies. Their American success was limited to their Philly sound period but they continued to have success in Europe, particularly Britain, for a few years after that. Their music is a wonderful mix of ballads and up-tempo material but may generally be described as easy-listening disco music.

This collection contains most of their British and American hits, including TSOP (their only American number one hit) and When will I see you again (their only British number one hit). Both those tracks are from their Philly sound period, which is also represented here by other great songs including Dirty old man, Year of decision and Take good care of yourself, the last two of which charted high in the UK.

After they switched labels to Ariola, their British hits included Golden lady, Jump the gun, Giving up giving in, Woman in love, The runner and My simple heart.

A few minor hits are missing but all the essentials are here. This is not the strongest ever collection of their music released on CD, but it is as good as anything else available as I write this review.

funky disco beats., 11 Jun 2001
a classic album for any disco goer with a history. It combines soulful ballads such as 'when will i see you again' with funky disco beats as in 'red light', my personal favourite. Their effortless voices mixed with catchy rhythms and melodies make this an unforgettable blast of serious 60's music.

Classic Soul, 25 Oct 2008
Soul music had several regional centres in the `60's, and there was a distinctive sound from each, notably Detroit, and Memphis, but also in Muscle Shoals and Chicago. Equally, several labels became synonymous with a Soul sound, Motown, Stax and Atlantic, 3 of the best known.

In late 60's Philadelphia, Thom Bell was producing and arranging for the Delfonics, adding elements not normally associated with Soul vocal groups, and in doing so, providing a blueprint for what became known as Sweet Soul. Bell carried this sound with him to The Stylistics, where his writing and arranging with Linda Creed, together with the Groups vocals, created a major stir with their first album on the Atco label in 1970. Both groups feature strongly here, including all their early hits.

At the same time Gamble and Huff were working their magic on groups like The O'Jays, and Harold Melvin & the Bluenotes, both established groups who were looking for their breakthrough. That would come in 1972, with the release of "Backstabbers" and "If You Don't Know Me..." heralding a run of success for the Philadelphia International label which would last for a decade or more. Following them would come artists like Billy Paul, a jazz singer who enjoyed enormous success with "Me and Mrs Jones", The 3 Degrees, MFSB (the PI house band) and many more. Many, if not most of the labels hits are included here.

With the Philly Sound riding high, producers and artists were drawn to find out whether they could share in that success - this had brought artists as diverse as Dusty Springfield and Jerry Butler to Philadelphia in the `60's and Atlantic had sent Wilson Pickett to step out of his Southern Soul groove with "Don't Let The Green Grass Fool You" (all on disc 1). Newly signed to Atlantic following their inauspicious Motown career, The Spinners (Detroit Spinners in the UK), came to work with Thom Bell. The result was one of the finest Soul albums of the `70's, which provided 3 massive crossover hits, of which "I'll Be Around" is included here. They would follow that gold album with 5 more in the coming years, and a string of awards, including a Grammy for Thom Bell for Best Producer in 1974.

As the `70's moved on so the hits just kept coming, especially for the Philadelphia International label, and disc 3 contains hits almost exclusively from that label, as diverse in sound as the O'Jay's impassioned "Let Me Make Love To You" , a slice of old school Soul, to the proto Disco of Archie Bell and the Drills' "Lets Groove" and the social commentary of Harold Melvin's "Wake Up everybody", which still retains it's power and message today.

The later years of the Philly saw a less distinctive sound, but the success didn't end, with the O'Jays still up there, along with Teddy Pendergrass (who became a major star after leaving the Bluenotes), The Manhattans and McFadden & Whitehead, with their anthem "Ain't No Stoppin' Us Now". This is not all there is to the story though, as there were countless artists, throughout these years, who added to the Sound, but who never quite made superstardom - bands like The Intruders, Trammps and Peoples Choice, artists like Joe Simon and William DeVaughn, all of whom are featured here. Among those less famous artists were The Ebonys, and their "It's Forever" is on disc 2 - worth buying this set for on its own if you are a Soul fan.

So this is the story of Philadelphia Soul, of a city that found a sound, that mined a rich creative seam and staked a claim as one of the most influential labels of Soul. I could quibble about some of the track selections (I'd have had more from the early '70's, especially the Spinners), but credit the compilers for including some of the less well known names. This is a wonderful reminder of what can happen when a bunch of talented people get together, what superb music they can create, and is recommended for anyone who remembers those years, for anyone who wants to check out some of the sounds beyond the hits, or for anyone who loves Soul and who may have lost their copies of these tracks.


Outstanding Philly soul compilation, 07 Mar 2005
Whereas Motown and Atlantic dominated soul music in the late sixties, other labels gave them much stiffer competition in the seventies, especially Philadelphia International, the source of the tracks for this compilation.

All the big Philly stars are here (eight tracks including Back stabbers and Love train), Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes (five tracks including If you don't know me by now and Don't leave me this way), Billy Paul (four tracks including Me and Mrs Jones) and the Three Degrees (five tracks counting those backing MFSP, including When will I see you again).

Other famous tracks here include You'll never find another love like mine (Lou Rawls), Soul city walk (Archie Bell and the Drells), Ain't no stopping us now (McFadden and Whitehead) and Show you the way to go (Jacksons).

With forty-five tracks altogether, this offers a comprehensive overview of the sound of Philadelphia, as it was in the seventies.

Soul at its best, 16 Feb 2007
The recent passing of Wilson gives the music listener a chance to take stock of the subjects work. Wilson was probably underated by the public. However when one counts up his songs he left us with a golden legacy. Included here are In the midnight hour, land of 1000 dances. Mustang Sally, 634-5789 and his rendition of The Beatles classic Hey Jude which was a surprise top 20 hit in 1969. Also on this set is the beautiful I`m in love. If you are into soul music this is a top c.d. to own.

Wilson Pickett at his soulful best!, 30 Jun 2001
This is a fine soul album containing sixteen tracks of Wilson Pickett at his best, opening with what many would consider his signature tune 'In The Midnight Hour'. 'Land Of A Thousand Dances' with big punchy brass, and the slower 'Mustang Sally' showing Pickett in great voice - the big band backing and the backing vocals are excellent - this is a rhythm and blues classic! 'I'm as happy as a man can be' sings Wilson with great conviction on Bobby Womack's 'I'm In Love' which he performs superbly. 'She's Lookin' Good' is a funky number with great interplay between guitar and Pickett's vocals throughout the song. There has been some decent covers of Beatles songs, and some not so decent, but Wilson Pickett does justice to 'Hey Jude' and he is helped out by Duane Allman's (Allman Brothers Band and Derek And The Dominoes) guitar work -yeah, nice one! A great intro leads the listener into 'Engine Number 9' where so much is going on musically throughout this song which is truly fascinating stuff - this is good! Well worth a mention is the moving 'Don't Let The Green Grass Fool You' - a good song sung with loads of feeling. Taking Andy Fraser and Paul Rodgers' (Of Free) 'Fire And Water' and making it completely his own works very well. This is a good album of quality material, some of it classic. A welcome cd to my collection. Recommended.

TOP ALBUM., 04 Aug 2008
TOP ALBUM. REALLY REALLY GOOD. TO ENJOY THIS ALBUM LISTEN TO IT ON A REALLY GOOD MUSIC PLAYER. FANTASTIC.

Great collection from The Voice, 29 Oct 2007
This is a brilliant collection by one of the great voices.From ballads to groovy soul this really does justice to this underated artist.Who deserves to be up there with the soul greats.Superb

Great voice, great music !, 06 Dec 2005
One of the best funky male voices ever and one CD to buy asap!
Very good selection of tracks, great sound, a pleasure to listen over and over.
Just buy it!

amazing, 28 Apr 2007
think it over- chorus upon chorus of honey layered perfection- emo fans check this one out it will blow your mind this time (sorry) but this is insanely smooth- but in a way bittersweet- atmospheric to a point of almost having an eerie (overlook hotel) ingredient. Slowed down orchestral groove heaven.

the cream of rare groove funk, 07 Mar 2007
Not only are the Delfonics one of the supreme bands of the rare groove scene, they also know how to produce a track listing to wet the appetite of the most discerning palete.
Even the great man Tarantino himself included a fine Delfonics track ,namely "Did'nt I blow your mind" which went down very well and fitted into the film (JACKIE BROWN )extremely well, it was almost as like the film was made for the track.
Needless to say anything by the Delfonics is a must in any CD collection.
No collection is complete without them.
All the best
Steve The Rare Groove Connection.

What was that great song in 'Jackie Brown'?, 23 May 2001
In Tarantino's 'Jackie Brown' the guy trying to pull Jackie gets in to her music to try and impress. The song in question is "Didn't I Blown Your Mind" by the Delfonics. On the strength of that song I picked up this compilation which is full of similar type stuff, but it doesn't get annoyingly samey. It's a kind of fun soul music and is a good pick-me-up.

A nice mix of Jackson's 5's biggest hits, 13 Aug 2008
I bought this to get a copy of their most famous fun hits such as ABC, I Want You Back and Rockin Robin and was pleased to find some other great songs that I hadn't heard before, other than the few really famous hits that are on the album though I wouldn't say much else grabs you and it seems that some really good songs from the Jackson 5 such as 'Blame it on The Boogie' have been left out.

Worth purchasing if your into them or just the famous songs otherwise possibly give it a miss. A nice addition to party music collections though.

Jackson 5 Classic, 08 Jun 2008
All the oldies and goldies plus a few lesser known songs. Takes me back to my teen years. I still listen to this music almost 40 years on which proves it has stood the test of time. It is not sheer sentimentality, this music is good. Since the Amazon reviewer brings up what she calls Michael's pre-identity crisis, I feel bound to say that in Michael's defence, he has a right to do with his face what he pleases, he does actually suffer from two diseases which both ravage the face. But hey I thought these were music reviewers! Buy it for the music, Michael's voice even at this age gives some idea of what is to come - the King of Pop.

Still legendary, 06 Jan 2004
Even though the Jackson 5 have long since split up and gone their seperate ways, their music still lives on, giving an oural example of their legendary performances and well written songs.

This album is, to put it bluntly, the best. With all the hits that make the Jackson 5 the Jackson 5 and make them stand out, the album is one of the best played on my stereo to date. Even if you aren't that big of a fan of these guys, it doesn't matter, the album is so easy going and "feel-good" anyone can enjoy it! And come on, for such a low price you get all these melodolic songs from years gone by, but never forgotten.

This album is the best of the jackson 5, 04 Dec 2000
Because its got all the greatest hits like I want you back and ABC.This album is the best jackson 5 album I have bought so far.I bought this since I have always like the jackson 5 and through I have always wanted their greatest hits on a album.All the songs have pop and R&B in it.Even If you are not a jackson 5 fan I still advise you to get this album because its the best.

Male divas rule, 10 Mar 2006
You want a mix of funk and soul from top names from Motown? Here's the pitch, the O'Jays were on the top of their music and benfited from top writors of the 70's. Sold to soul, righton brother! So they might have said on their day. Note the lack of expletives.

Brilliant!!, 24 Sep 2005
I loved this CD - if you are a fan of the Ojays then dont hesitate to buy it. In fact one copy got a bit too used so I bought another!! This led me to get the Favourite person/year 2000 by them too which is another hit with me. 'Darling Darling Baby' I never tire of hearing along with the other hits. Great!!

Brilliant Philadelphia soul group, 01 Mar 2005
The O' Jays came together in the 1958 but they failed to make any real impact until 1972, when they emerged as one of the leading Philly soul acts, along with the Three Degrees, Harold Melvin and the Blue notes, Billy Paul and others.

The O' Jays began their run of success with Back stabbers, a top three American hit and a top twenty UK hit, but it is their second hit, Love train (a plea for world harmony) that is their most memorable recording. It was the first of several songs they recorded that conveyed some kind of message and it also gave them their only UK top ten hit. Further international hits followed including I love music, Darling darling baby, Used ta be my girl, Brandy, Sing a happy song and Put our heads together.

The O' Jays continued to make music long after the Philly soul period ended, but it is those seventies recordings for which they will always be remembered. This compilation includes all of their classic hits from that golden age.

...a dream collection of smooth soul..., 14 Jun 2007
It's the 60th birthday of Atlantic records which is just the sort of excuse owners Warners need to chuck a pile of compilations at the wall to see what sticks. But hold hard! Don't go away just yet.

In a virtually unheard of, treating the catalogue with respect type move, they've got one of their other minions to take care of business. In this case, reissue specialists Rhino. Which means that when you scrape the muck of the wall you find a dream compilation like this.

The Spinners, despite some massive hits, have been horrendously under rated over the years, and this 20 tracker goes some way towards reclaiming their place at the top table of soulful vocal groups. Kicking off with their two bona fide classics 'I'll Be Around' and 'Could It Be I'm Falling In Love', we then head off on a trip full of sublime soul. We get 'I'm Coming Home', their duet with Dionne Warwick, 'Then Caae You', 'You're Throwing A Good Love Away' and more three minute gems than you can shake the proverbial stick at.

This is the prize in the collection, only let down by an absence of any decent sleeve notes. But at a rock bottom budget price, you simply have to own this.

fantastic group, fantastic collection, 12 Nov 2008
this is one of my most played cds..still. they are such a slick trio, and a lot of quality is on this cd. even today, with a different line up, you would be hard pressed to find a more slick group.

Lasted longer in Europe than America, 19 May 2004
The Three Degrees were one of the most successful groups to emerge from the Philadelphia soul scene in the seventies. Their American success was limited to their Philly sound period but they continued to have success in Europe, particularly Britain, for a few years after that. Their music is a wonderful mix of ballads and up-tempo material but may generally be described as easy-listening disco music.

This collection contains most of their British and American hits, including TSOP (their only American number one hit) and When will I see you again (their only British number one hit). Both those tracks are from their Philly sound period, which is also represented here by other great songs including Dirty old man, Year of decision and Take good care of yourself, the last two of which charted high in the UK.

After they switched labels to Ariola, their British hits included Golden lady, Jump the gun, Giving up giving in, Woman in love, The runner and My simple heart.

A few minor hits are missing but all the essentials are here. This is not the strongest ever collection of their music released on CD, but it is as good as anything else available as I write this review.

funky disco beats., 11 Jun 2001
a classic album for any disco goer with a history. It combines soulful ballads such as 'when will i see you again' with funky disco beats as in 'red light', my personal favourite. Their effortless voices mixed with catchy rhythms and melodies make this an unforgettable blast of serious 60's music.

Classic Soul, 25 Oct 2008
Soul music had several regional centres in the `60's, and there was a distinctive sound from each, notably Detroit, and Memphis, but also in Muscle Shoals and Chicago. Equally, several labels became synonymous with a Soul sound, Motown, Stax and Atlantic, 3 of the best known.