James Brown – The LP Of JB - Sex Machine And Other Soul Classics

James Brown – The LP Of JB - Sex Machine And Other Soul Classics

Released in 1985 on Polydor Records, The LP Of JB - Sex Machine And Other Soul Classics brings together twelve essential recordings from one of the most influential figures in the history of soul and funk. Spanning some of James Brown's most celebrated work from the late 1950s through to the early 1970s, this compilation offers an excellent introduction to the musical evolution of the man widely recognised as the Godfather of Soul.

James Brown fundamentally changed the direction of popular music. Beginning with the gospel-influenced intensity of early R&B and soul, he gradually developed a harder, more rhythmically focused sound that helped establish the foundations of funk. His distinctive vocal delivery, explosive stage presence and uncompromising approach to rhythm transformed the relationship between vocals and instrumentation, influencing generations of soul, funk, hip-hop and dance musicians.

This collection captures several important stages of that journey. Early recordings such as 'Please, Please, Please' and 'Try Me (I Need You)' showcase the emotional intensity and gospel-rooted vocal style that first established Brown as a major soul performer. 'Out Of Sight' and 'I Got You' demonstrate the increasingly syncopated rhythms and tighter instrumental arrangements that pointed towards his revolutionary funk sound.

The collection also includes some of his most recognisable recordings from the golden age of funk. 'Papa's Got A Brand New Bag' was a groundbreaking 1965 recording that helped introduce a radically different approach to rhythm, placing greater emphasis on the first beat of the bar and creating the unmistakable groove that became central to funk music. 'I Got The Feelin'' and 'Licking Stick - Licking Stick' further demonstrate Brown's remarkable ability to create infectious, tightly controlled grooves from interlocking guitar, bass, drums and brass.

The later recordings are equally compelling. 'Mother Popcorn' is a prime example of Brown's increasingly sophisticated funk arrangements, while 'Sex Machine', recorded with the original J.B.'s lineup, stands as one of the defining funk performances of its era. Driven by an insistent rhythm section and Brown's commanding vocal exchanges, it captures the raw energy and precision that made his music so influential. 'Doing It To Death', featuring the J.B.'s, adds another heavyweight funk workout to the collection.

What makes this compilation particularly appealing is the opportunity to hear the development of James Brown's sound across different periods. From the passionate soul of his early recordings to the stripped-back, rhythmically adventurous funk that would influence artists across countless genres, these twelve tracks provide a concise overview of an extraordinary musical legacy.

An excellent collection for fans of classic soul, deep funk, vintage R&B and the roots of hip-hop, as well as collectors looking for essential James Brown recordings on vinyl. Featuring some of the most important and instantly recognisable tracks in his catalogue, The LP Of JB is a celebration of an artist whose influence on modern music remains immeasurable.

Tracklist

Side A
A1. Doing It To Death (Part 1) (5:23)
A2. Soul Power (Part 1) (3:01)
A3. Try Me (I Need You) (2:29)
A4. Out Of Sight (2:22)
A5. I Got You (2:26)
A6. It's A Man's World (3:14)

Side B
B1. Papa's Got A Brand New Bag (Part 1) (2:06)
B2. I Got The Feelin' (2:40)
B3. Licking Stick - Licking Stick (Part 1) (2:47)
B4. Mother Popcorn (Part 1) (3:11)
B5. Sex Machine (5:04)
B6. Please, Please, Please (2:44)