TOP 200 FAVOURITE ALBUMS This update: #109. Another album highlighted tomorrow.

THE CAFFE` LATTE`

200

MOST RECOMMENDED ALBUMS

Some are the best selling, while others may be obscure, but the albums listed here are all worthy of a listen. No compilation/ best of sets. Only exceptional live albums included. This is a personal listing of the albums I enjoy the most to this day.

#109

IF I WERE YOUR WOMAN:

 GLADYS KNIGHT & THE PIPS

 

 [1971] 

Few women in R&B have the gift that is the voice of Gladys Knight. With The Pips, together the vocal group enriched the planet with some breathtaking recordings. In 1971, Knight & The Pips were soon to join the exodus from Motown. 'If I Were Your Woman' was 1 of the last albums by the group for the label. Although greater success awaited them at Buddah Records, the 1971 album is a splendid collection of soul cuts. At the peak of her powers, Knight's voice takes one to a spiritual high. Its title track alone is reason enough to make this album a standout in any record collection. Knight & The Pips cover The Beatles' "Let It Be", Sly & The Family Stone's "Everybody Is A Star", the standard "Feeling Alright" and The Fifth Dimension's "One Less Bell To Answer". The gospel hints of the former are infused with gospel and soul in Knight's interpretation. 

Knight's vocals are exemplary. The harmonies from The Pips are glorious throughout. Amid all the vocal delights, it's easy to overlook the lyrics. There are some killers among the dozen presented on this album. Along with "If I Were Your Woman", the words shine on "I Don't Want To Do Wrong", "Here I Am Again", "Your Love's Been So Good For Me" and "Signed Gladys". Highlight tracks: If I Were Your Woman; Here I Am Again & I Don't Want To Do Wrong.