200 FAVE ALBUMS. Today's update: #99. More later this week.

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.

#99

I AM: EARTH, WIND & FIRE

 

 [1979] 

Earth, Wind & Fire recorded some of disco's classiest and most glorious tracks, but the group was much more than just a dance act. EWF was essentially an R&B / funk band that fused those genres with elements of sub-genres that included Quiet Storm, Adult Contemporary, jazz, African rhythms, rock and psychedelic soul. Disco was added to the list later in the evolution of EWF's sound. It was a key ingredient by the time the group delivered 'I Am' in 1979. There are exceptions, among them the lush ballad "After The Love Has Gone"; the rock out track "Rock That!"; the jazzy "Diana"; the groove of "Let Your Feelings Show" and the funky number featuring Junior Wells "Dirty (Junior's Juke)". The groove proves irresistible however on the disco - flavoured songs. These include the upbeat and joyous tracks "In The Stone", "Can't Let Go", "Star" and "Boogie Wonderland". Wherever that latter place is, EWF (joined by sister group The Emotions) will make you want to get there! This was also the time of colourful covers for EWF albums and 'I Am' is one of the band's best.

Highlight tracks: In The Stone; After the Love Has Gone & Boogie Wonderland.