The Jacksons – The Jacksons

The Jacksons – The Jacksons

Released in 1976, The Jacksons is the group's first album for Epic Records and a significant milestone in the history of one of America's most successful musical families. Following their departure from Motown, the brothers adopted the name The Jacksons and embarked on a new musical direction, retaining their distinctive vocal harmonies while embracing the sophisticated soul, funk and disco influences emerging from Philadelphia.

The move to Epic also brought a change in line-up. Jermaine Jackson remained with Motown, while younger brother Randy joined Jackie, Tito, Marlon and Michael, completing the five-piece group heard on this recording. It was the beginning of an important new era that would eventually produce some of their most celebrated work.

Produced principally by legendary Philadelphia soul architects Kenneth Gamble and Leon Huff, the album benefits from the unmistakable sound of their production partnership. Recorded at Sigma Sound Studios in Philadelphia and Paragon Studios in Chicago, the sessions bring together lush orchestration, expressive keyboards, sophisticated rhythm arrangements and irresistible dancefloor grooves.

Opening with the infectious 'Enjoy Yourself', the album immediately establishes its upbeat, polished Philadelphia soul character. Built around an irresistible rhythm and memorable chorus, it became a major comeback single for the brothers, reaching the US Top 10 and introducing audiences to their new musical identity. 'Think Happy' and 'Good Times' continue the energetic approach, combining uplifting melodies with tight vocal harmonies and richly arranged funk and soul instrumentation.

'Keep On Dancing' brings a strong disco influence, while 'Blues Away' is particularly interesting as an early Michael Jackson songwriting contribution, offering a more personal and introspective moment within the album's otherwise celebratory atmosphere.

The second side features another major highlight in 'Show You The Way To Go', a beautifully arranged Gamble & Huff composition that became a UK number one single in 1977. Its elegant orchestration, soulful vocals and sophisticated production make it one of the defining recordings of the group's early Epic period. Elsewhere, 'Living Together' and 'Strength Of One Man' explore a deeper, more measured soul sound, while 'Dreamer' and 'Style Of Life' bring the album to a melodic and uplifting conclusion.

Although the transition away from Motown represented a significant risk, The Jacksons successfully established the brothers as a mature soul and funk group in their own right. It laid the foundations for subsequent albums including Goin' Places, Destiny and Triumph, during which they would increasingly take creative control of their music.

An essential release for fans of classic 1970s soul, Philadelphia soul, funk and disco, this self-titled album captures The Jacksons at the beginning of an exciting new chapter. Featuring outstanding Gamble & Huff production, memorable singles and the unmistakable vocal chemistry of the Jackson brothers, it is an important addition to any collection of classic soul and funk records.

Tracklist

Side A

1. Enjoy Yourself

2. Think Happy

3. Good Times

4. Keep On Dancing

5. Blues Away

Side B

1. Show You The Way To Go

2. Living Together

3. Strength Of One Man

4. Dreamer

5. Style Of Life