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.
#32
INNERVISIONS: STEVIE WONDER
[1973]
Stevie Wonder first wowed the public as a teen on his 1st #1 single "Fingertips". His prodigious talent was undeniable. As he matured, he helped create some classics for the Motown label; either for other artists or himself. By the early 1970s, Wonder had entered adulthood and his creative golden epoch. 'Innervisions' was sandwiched between 2 classic albums from the master-musician, the previous year's 'Talking Book' and 1974's 'Fulfillingness' First Finale'. Wonder's 1973 release maintained the consistency while continuing the musical progression. 'Innervisions' was an apt title for this release. Wonder not only explored new musical paths but laid the groundwork for trends in the future. There are elements of psychedelic soul, funk, gospel, Latin rhythms, soul and adult contemporary as well as hints of neo-soul and the social commentary that would become an increasingly more fundamental part of urban music. There's an awe-inspiring range of styles, giving each track its own distinct character. Opening with "Too High", Wonder tackles drug use. "He's A Misstra Know It All" is an attack on President Nixon. "Living For The City" deals with the discrimination African Americans confront. There are lighter moments though. "Don't You Worry 'Bout A Thing" is an upbeat track, as is "Golden Lady". "All In Love Is Fair" is a beautiful ballad that was covered by Barbra Streisand soon after this album's release. "Higher Ground" is another classic from Wonder's extensive songbook. It's masterworks such as this that have earned him his reputation as an artistic genius.
Highlight tracks: Living For the City; Higher Ground; Golden Lady & Too High.
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