Printed From: Progarchives.com
Category: Progressive Music Lounges
Forum Name: Prog Recommendations/Featured albums
Forum Description: Make or seek recommendations and discuss specific prog albums
URL: http://www.progarchives.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=132941 Printed Date: November 23 2024 at 11:51 Software Version: Web Wiz Forums 11.01 - http://www.webwizforums.com
Topic: Soul prog?Posted By: Gnik Nosmirc
Subject: Soul prog?
Date Posted: May 08 2024 at 05:27
I am interested in prog albums with an emphasis on soul and funk. There is a whole trend of nu-jazz, lo-fi stuff and I am interested in the prog-side of it. One thing I can think about is, weirdly, The Dark Side of the Moon which has some soul/funk-ish elements. There is also the Thank You Scientist band.
Replies: Posted By: wiz_d_kidd
Date Posted: May 08 2024 at 06:36
------------- “I don’t like country music, but I don’t mean to denigrate those who do. And for those who like country music, denigrate means to ‘put down.'” – Bob Newhart
Posted By: Grumpyprogfan
Date Posted: May 08 2024 at 06:39
Neal Morse
Posted By: mathman0806
Date Posted: May 08 2024 at 06:40
Maybe The Reign of Kindo (now just Kindo).
Edit to add a video.
Posted By: suitkees
Date Posted: May 08 2024 at 06:42
The band or album you mention wouldn't make me think of this, but since you mention nu-jazz, you might be interested to explore The Comet is Coming, from the London nu-jazz scene. For example, Summon the Fire:
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The razamataz is a pain in the bum
Posted By: MortSahlFan
Date Posted: May 08 2024 at 06:42
Great topic.. There's a good amount from the 70s, and I'll try to find some more
Posted By: Moyan
Date Posted: May 08 2024 at 06:44
Although the music on the 1970 self-titled album by Atomic Rooster is mostly blues-based progressive heavy-rock, Broken Wings is a soul-like progressive rock song. Its soulful melody is accompanied by melancholic instrumentation that enhances the emotional impact of the lyrics. The sombre tone of the music mirrors the bittersweet nature of the lyrics, creating a powerful synergy between sound and meaning. The Atomic Rooster pretty skillfully incorporated elements of soul music into "Broken Wings," creating a unique merging of genres in this particular song.
By non-English songs from the continent, I'd like to mention "Pjesma #3 (English: "Song No. 3) from the TIME self-titled album from 1972. While its jazzy chords and amazing flute solos create a dreamy feel, the band's frontman, Dado Topić, delivers soulful vocals that add emotional depth to the lyrics, which, sung in Croatian, are delivered with passion and intensity. "Pjesma #3" beautifully reflects TIME's fusion of progressive rock, soul, and jazz influences that characterised their unique musical style during their active years.
Posted By: Moyan
Date Posted: May 08 2024 at 07:16
Regarding contemporary stuff that could be considered 'progressive soul', I'd like to mention "Reach My Soul," one of the songs from the 2024 album "Find Your Flame" by the Sheffield-based ensemble Nubiyan Twist. Their sound is indeed a fusion of various genres, including jazz, afrobeat, Latin, soul, and beyond. The group, which is led by guitarist and producer Tom Excell, consists of very talented musicians that provide a potent and remarkable musical experience with their 10-piece live presentation, which features a 4-piece horn section, two vocalists, electronics, and an international rhythm section that spans from Brazil to the UK.
Posted By: Easy Money
Date Posted: May 08 2024 at 09:22
There are actually better tracks by Rotary Connection and Mandrill out there, but this is what I dug up with a quick youtube search. With both bands, you need to hear the full albums. Other albums I would recommend include Marvin Gaye - "Whats Going On" Osibissa - "Soundtrack to Super Fly II" and Earth Wind & Fire - "Gratitude" Also, just about any album Stevie Wonder put out in the 70s.
Posted By: AJ Junior
Date Posted: May 08 2024 at 09:36
Jean Luc Ponty and Bruford (although I would consider the latter as jazz-rock leaning)
------------- "Together We Stand, Divided We Fall"
Posted By: Psychedelic Paul
Date Posted: May 08 2024 at 09:39
Peter Banks' Empire are the best Soul Prog band I know of.
EMPIRE A Crossover Prog band with a heart full of Soul, led by the "architect of prog", Peter Banks, and also featuring the gorgeous soulful vocals of foxy lady, Sydney Foxx.
Empire recorded three superb albums in the mid-1970's - imaginatively titled Mark I, Mark II & Mark III - which wouldn't see release until the mid-1990's, followed by a contemporary 2020 tribute album recorded in memory of Peter Banks (1947-2013), released under the band name, The New Empire. Think of YES with a soulful female vocalist instead of Jon Anderson and that's the sound of The New Empire.
1974: Empire - Mark I - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP0IenmeCOtw6daQ1uJ50eyWPJKt9Q_Tq" rel="nofollow - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP0IenmeCOtw6daQ1uJ50eyWPJKt9Q_Tq
1977: Empire - Mark II - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_m5G-IhfGVmxZsntGoQgvTZC23ifEMIops" rel="nofollow - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_m5G-IhfGVmxZsntGoQgvTZC23ifEMIops
1978: Empire - Mark III - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_mHPheN5xMvOvRkoTI0J30Y9SMm-bkLAos" rel="nofollow - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_mHPheN5xMvOvRkoTI0J30Y9SMm-bkLAos
2020: The New Empire - Second Lifetime - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_mvF2MbGvRM1YXpKT775LekNR9SeaaHJK8" rel="nofollow - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_mvF2MbGvRM1YXpKT775LekNR9SeaaHJK8
Posted By: Steve Wyzard
Date Posted: May 08 2024 at 12:59
Herbie Hancock: Head Hunters (1973), Thrust (1974), Flood (1975).
Posted By: Moyan
Date Posted: May 08 2024 at 13:08
"Fire" by the Crazy World of Arthur Brown combines elements of soul music into Brown's vocal delivery and overall style, and hence it sticks out as a 1968 progressive rock song with strong soul-music influences. Arthur Brown provides a powerful vocal performance that embodies the deep expressions and dynamic delivery that define the soul music of the era. With its intense rhythm section, horn arrangements, and Vincent Crane's organ, which give the song more depth and richness, the instrumentation and composition of "Fire" also show elements of soul music.
Posted By: Moyan
Date Posted: May 08 2024 at 13:22
"Living for the City" from Stevie Wonder’s “Innervisions” album from 1973 can be considered a prime example of progressive soul music due to its genre-blending sound, socially conscious lyrics, and innovative and intricate musical arrangements, including powerful vocals, dynamic instrumentation, and a narrative structure that unfolds like a mini-drama.
Posted By: Moyan
Date Posted: May 08 2024 at 14:43
There is a strong soul-music ingredient present in Vangelis's song "Let It Happen" from his 1973 album "Earth." The track features a fusion of different genres and styles, and it is a progressive mix. "Let It Happen" infuses elements of soul music into the spectral composition by Vangelis, creating a unique blend of electronic, boogie, and soul influences. The incorporation of soul music elements adds depth and richness to the track, enhancing its overall sound and appeal.
Posted By: mellotronwave
Date Posted: May 08 2024 at 15:42
Any Osibisa's LP ?
Posted By: MortSahlFan
Date Posted: May 08 2024 at 16:25
Psychedelic Paul wrote:
Peter Banks' Empire are the best Soul Prog band I know of.
EMPIRE A Crossover Prog band with a heart full of Soul, led by the "architect of prog", Peter Banks, and also featuring the gorgeous soulful vocals of foxy lady, Sydney Foxx.
Empire recorded three superb albums in the mid-1970's - imaginatively titled Mark I, Mark II & Mark III - which wouldn't see release until the mid-1990's, followed by a contemporary 2020 tribute album recorded in memory of Peter Banks (1947-2013), released under the band name, The New Empire. Think of YES with a soulful female vocalist instead of Jon Anderson and that's the sound of The New Empire.
1974: Empire - Mark I - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP0IenmeCOtw6daQ1uJ50eyWPJKt9Q_Tq" rel="nofollow - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP0IenmeCOtw6daQ1uJ50eyWPJKt9Q_Tq
1977: Empire - Mark II - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_m5G-IhfGVmxZsntGoQgvTZC23ifEMIops" rel="nofollow - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_m5G-IhfGVmxZsntGoQgvTZC23ifEMIops
1978: Empire - Mark III - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_mHPheN5xMvOvRkoTI0J30Y9SMm-bkLAos" rel="nofollow - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_mHPheN5xMvOvRkoTI0J30Y9SMm-bkLAos
2020: The New Empire - Second Lifetime - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_mvF2MbGvRM1YXpKT775LekNR9SeaaHJK8" rel="nofollow - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_mvF2MbGvRM1YXpKT775LekNR9SeaaHJK8
Peter Banks and Sidonie Jordan made a great team!
"Everything Changes", "Someone Who Cares", "Shooting Star", "Sky At Night", "More Than Words", are fine songs. I love the jazz guitar as well. Always looking for this time of stuff - slow paces and proggy. Ambient. The only thing this song lacks are chimes!
Posted By: Catcher10
Date Posted: May 08 2024 at 21:21
Parliament/Funkadelic
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Posted By: Atavachron
Date Posted: May 08 2024 at 22:13
------------- "Too often we enjoy the comfort of opinion without the discomfort of thought." -- John F. Kennedy
Posted By: richardh
Date Posted: May 08 2024 at 22:34
Santana - Moonchild. More latin than funk but great on the 'soul' side of things.
PFM - Jet Lag. This gets quite funky in places and has a great 'vibe'.
A more modern band that do the funk thing well are King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizzard. They are more of a fun festival band but really good.
Posted By: Moyan
Date Posted: May 08 2024 at 23:50
Janko Nilović, a French multiinstrumentalist, arranger, and composer of Montenegrin origins, is known for his diverse musical style that blends various genres such as jazz, funk, and classical music. His album "Soul Impressions," released in 1975, showcases his innovative approach to music composition and arrangement. Entirely instrumental, the album features a fusion of traditional soul and funk elements with more experimental and proggy sounds.
Nilović incorporates complex rhythms, odd time signatures, and intricate melodies into his compositions, which are characteristic of progressive music. Nilović’s use of unconventional instrumentation, such as Moog synthesisers and exotic percussion instruments, adds a progressive touch to the album. The incorporation of these elements demonstrates his willingness to push the boundaries of traditional music genres and explore new sonic territories.
Overall, "Soul Impressions" by Janko Nilović can be considered a pioneering work that incorporates progressive music elements alongside soul and funk influences, making it a unique and imaginative album in the realm of music from the 1970s.
Posted By: cstack3
Date Posted: May 09 2024 at 00:12
All of Stanley Clarke's solo work is within this realm!
------------- I am not a Robot, I'm a FREE MAN!!
Posted By: Cosmiclawnmower
Date Posted: May 09 2024 at 06:59
verslibre wrote:
^To paraphrase what Danny DeVito once said, who drew that trash?
Yeah, nasty aint it? Apologies, couldnt get a smaller version to load..
Any of their lps would suffice- the only entirely 'white' act on Mowtown's roster.. They did some longer tracks including a side-long piece with organ, flute, some brass, good guitar over a soulful bass and vocals, quite 'jammy' in places..
But, yeah, could have done without seeing that...
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Posted By: Cosmiclawnmower
Date Posted: May 09 2024 at 07:05
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Posted By: mellotronwave
Date Posted: May 09 2024 at 08:04
Posted By: AFlowerKingCrimson
Date Posted: May 09 2024 at 08:20
I can't think of many (if any) legitimate examples of this. A lot of people are just mentioning funk, fusion, jazz or r and b albums that really have no real prog element.
I always thought the Lenny Kravitz song "Believe" was rather proggy and that and the whole album it's from Are You Gonna Go My Way has lots of soul and eclectic elements but I wouldn't really call it any kind of prog no matter how much I personally like it.
Posted By: verslibre
Date Posted: May 09 2024 at 10:24
richardh wrote:
Santana - Moonchild. More latin than funk but great on the 'soul' side of things.
Posted By: verslibre
Date Posted: May 09 2024 at 10:30
AFlowerKingCrimson wrote:
I can't think of many (if any) legitimate examples of this. A lot of people are just mentioning funk, fusion, jazz or r and b albums that really have no real prog element.
I always thought the Lenny Kravitz song "Believe" was rather proggy and that and the whole album it's from Are You Gonna Go My Way has lots of soul and eclectic elements but I wouldn't really call it any kind of prog no matter how much I personally like it.
I like Lenny's early output a lot, especially AYGGMY through 5.
Posted By: Psychedelic Paul
Date Posted: May 09 2024 at 10:49
The ultimate Progressive Soul album!
1971: Isaac Hayes - Black Moses - http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_ndEsgO_3LlgXCDbrVqJW_BzfrpCNTDo8w" rel="nofollow - http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_ndEsgO_3LlgXCDbrVqJW_BzfrpCNTDo8w
Posted By: mellotronwave
Date Posted: May 09 2024 at 12:53
Posted By: Moyan
Date Posted: May 09 2024 at 13:57
"The Book of Taliesyn" showcases several characteristics that align Deep Purple with the early progressive rock movement. The album includes extended instrumental passages, intricate arrangements, and diverse musical influences that set it apart from the classic rock music of the time.
Written by Jon Lord and Rod Evans, "Anthem" stands out as a track that incorporates both soul music and classical music influences. The song features a soulful vocal delivery and a groove that reflects the rhythmic and melodic characteristics often found in soul music. It also features strings and church-like Hammond organ interplay; along with Blackmore's classically influenced guitar work, it creates a lush, symphonic sound. "Anthem" is a really fascinating 1968 blend of rock, soul, and classical elements.
Posted By: Easy Money
Date Posted: May 09 2024 at 14:02
This multi-sectioned opus will take you on a trip:
Posted By: AFlowerKingCrimson
Date Posted: May 09 2024 at 14:26
verslibre wrote:
AFlowerKingCrimson wrote:
I can't think of many (if any) legitimate examples of this. A lot of people are just mentioning funk, fusion, jazz or r and b albums that really have no real prog element.
I always thought the Lenny Kravitz song "Believe" was rather proggy and that and the whole album it's from Are You Gonna Go My Way has lots of soul and eclectic elements but I wouldn't really call it any kind of prog no matter how much I personally like it.
I like Lenny's early output a lot, especially AYGGMY through 5.
Check out his first album Let Love Rule.
Posted By: Logan
Date Posted: May 09 2024 at 14:27
What immediately came to mind for Prog with funk and soul qualities is Magma for its late 70s and through 80s period, as well as its latest Karthel which draws on its late 70s era, and music by the Magma related Christian Vander project Offering. So from Magma, Attahk (1978), the Bobino 1981 concert album, Merci (1985) and Kartehhl (2122) for soulful jazz/funk qualities.
Parliament/Funkadelic has been mentioned and I would put certain albums in at least the Prog related/ adjacent universe. Based on my listening, from under the Parliament name, I found the debut Osmium (1970) to be most Prog relevant, and from Funkadelic, the first few albums. In the early 70s, P. Funk (Parliament-Funkadelic) was making really interesting and great music.
------------- https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLXcp9fYc6K4IKuxIZkenfvukL_Y8VBqzK" rel="nofollow - Duos for fave acts
Posted By: Psychedelic Paul
Date Posted: May 09 2024 at 15:04
Rotary Connection - the best Psychedelic Soul band of all time (featuring Minnie Riperton)
Magical World - a video which makes the dystopian world of Stalinism look almost appealing.
Posted By: Moyan
Date Posted: May 09 2024 at 15:28
"Solar Flight (Opus I)" by Mandré is a captivating and innovative instrumental track that blends elements of soul, funk, electronic music, and space-age themes, which is all so characteristic of this underrated artist. The song, released in 1977 as part of Mandré's self-titled debut album, perfectly exemplifies the artist's unique approach to music production and composition.
The track opens with a pulsating electronic beat that sets the tone for the futuristic journey the listener is about to embark on. Layers of synthesisers create a cosmic atmosphere, evoking images of outer space exploration and interstellar travel. The intricate melodies and harmonies weave together seamlessly, creating a sense of movement and progression throughout the song.
As "Solar Flight (Opus I)" unfolds, it builds in intensity, incorporating dynamic shifts in rhythm and texture. The use of unconventional sounds and effects adds depth to the composition, enhancing its otherworldly quality. Mandré's masterful production techniques shine through in the meticulous arrangement of each element, resulting in a rich sonic tapestry that captivates the listener from start to finish. "Solar Flight (Opus I)" stands as a testament to Mandré's boundary-pushing approach to music and his ability to create progressive experiences that transcend conventional soul-funk music.
Posted By: Logan
Date Posted: May 09 2024 at 17:03
As he was mentioned, love Janko Nilovic, by the way. His Rythmes Contemporains is one of my favourite albums.
------------------------
I did not notice anyone mention Demon Fuzz - Afreaka!.
------------- https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLXcp9fYc6K4IKuxIZkenfvukL_Y8VBqzK" rel="nofollow - Duos for fave acts
Posted By: The Dark Elf
Date Posted: May 09 2024 at 17:10
James Marshall Hendrix:
Electric Ladyland or Band of Gypsys. Pick one.
More progressive funk than just about anything out there. Just ask George Clinton.
------------- ...a vigorous circular motion hitherto unknown to the people of this area, but destined to take the place of the mud shark in your mythology...
Posted By: Atavachron
Date Posted: May 09 2024 at 17:52
^ BoG is easily one of the greatest live rock LPs ever.
------------- "Too often we enjoy the comfort of opinion without the discomfort of thought." -- John F. Kennedy
Posted By: AFlowerKingCrimson
Date Posted: May 09 2024 at 20:50
Did anyone mention Shuggie Otis or Curtis Mayfield yet?
Posted By: verslibre
Date Posted: May 09 2024 at 23:37
AFlowerKingCrimson wrote:
verslibre wrote:
AFlowerKingCrimson wrote:
I can't think of many (if any) legitimate examples of this. A lot of people are just mentioning funk, fusion, jazz or r and b albums that really have no real prog element.
I always thought the Lenny Kravitz song "Believe" was rather proggy and that and the whole album it's from Are You Gonna Go My Way has lots of soul and eclectic elements but I wouldn't really call it any kind of prog no matter how much I personally like it.
I like Lenny's early output a lot, especially AYGGMY through 5.
Check out his first album Let Love Rule.
Heard all the old stuff, but that's the one that never grabbed me. My interest began (begins) with Mama Said.
I saw Lenny open for The Cult on the latter's Ceremony tour. That was one loud show.
Posted By: Moyan
Date Posted: May 10 2024 at 01:49
Space-soul music is a unique and eclectic fusion subgenre that combines elements of space-rock, soul, funk, and jazz to create a cosmic and soulful sound. "Space Is the Place," the album by Sun Ra and His Astro Intergalactic Infinity Arkestra, is an example of a space-soul album from the early 1970s that was fairly progressive.
This album by Sun Ra, a pioneer of afrofuturism and avant-garde jazz, embodies the essence of space-soul music with its blend of free jazz improvisations, cosmic themes, and spiritual undertones. "Space Is the Place" features a mix of avant-jazz, soul music, electronic sounds, and otherworldly compositions that transport listeners to a celestial realm.
Over 21 minutes long, the title track, featuring female vocals, is a quintessential example of progressive space-soul music from 1973.
Posted By: Easy Money
Date Posted: May 10 2024 at 07:24
If you were listening to RnB radio in the late 70s, you might recall this pop gem, written by Shuggie Otis, that had a prog-rock sounding middle section.
Posted By: Gnik Nosmirc
Date Posted: May 10 2024 at 14:01
Wow, this topic is fire already!
Thank you all for providing various examples. So many added on my list. ^^
Posted By: mathman0806
Date Posted: May 10 2024 at 20:16
Going with more contemporary recommendation, the 2022 album Anitmai by The Dear Hunter.
Posted By: mathman0806
Date Posted: May 10 2024 at 20:55
From Closure in Moscow's 2023 album Soft Hell - Primal Sinister
Posted By: Moyan
Date Posted: May 10 2024 at 23:53
Michael Kiwanuka's s/t record is one of the contemporary progressive soul albums from the UK. Released in 2019, "Kiwanuka" is the third studio album by this British singer-songwriter, who is creating a fresh and innovative take on the soul genre. The album blends elements of soul, folk-rock, and psychedelic influences to create a unique and experimental sound that pushes the boundaries of traditional soul music. "Kiwanuka"'s exploration of themes such as identity, self-discovery, and societal issues further adds depth to its experimental nature, making it a standout example of contemporary progressive soul music from the UK. The album received critical acclaim for its bold experimentation and introspective lyrics, solidifying Michael Kiwanuka as one of the leading figures in the contemporary UK music scene.
Michael Kiwanuka’s distinctive vocals, combined with the innovative production on songs like "Hero," showcase his willingness to explore new sonic territories within the realm of soul music.
Posted By: Moyan
Date Posted: May 13 2024 at 01:35
If we're discussing contemporary progressive soul, we can't leave out Anaiis. A French-Senegalese singer-songwriter based in London, England, Anaiis (stylized anaiis) is noted for her eclectic style, multilingualism, singing ability, and thoughtful lyrics.
Anaiis obviously draws inspiration from a wide range of musical genres, such as soul, R&B, sophisti pop, ambient, neo-psychedelia, and electronic music; thus, her music blends various genres, styles, and influences to create a unique sound that resonates with audiences worldwide.
This fusion of styles creates a dynamic and innovative sound that sets her apart in the music industry.
Being of French-Senegalese descent, Anaiis infuses her music with elements of both cultures. This cultural fusion adds depth and richness to her songs, incorporating traditional Senegalese rhythms and melodies alongside modern Western influences.
Anaiis is known for her introspective and thought-provoking lyrics. Her songs often explore themes of identity, love, empowerment, and social issues, reflecting her personal experiences and worldview. This lyrical depth adds another layer of complexity to her music.
Anaiis' song "Woman" ("Darkness at Play," 2019) fits into the progressive soul genre for several reasons. Firstly, the production of "Woman" incorporates a mix of electronic elements, an ambient-like atmosphere, and traditional soul instrumentation. The song features a unique blend of synthesisers, drum machines, and live instruments that create a dreamy yet experimental sound.
Secondly, the lyrics of "Woman" address complex themes related to womanhood, empowerment, and self-discovery. Anaiis' introspective and thought-provoking lyrics add depth to the song and resonate with listeners on a personal level.
Lastly, "Woman" showcases Anaiis' willingness to experiment with different musical styles and sounds. The song’s unconventional structure, use of vocal effects, and dynamic shifts demonstrate her artistic versatility and willingness to push boundaries within the soul genre.
"Woman," a live rendition.
Posted By: RockHound
Date Posted: June 11 2024 at 08:06
Todd Rundgren had a great fusion of prog and soul-more Motown groove than funk.
The best examples, IMHO, are on Something/Anything, Todd, A Wizard/A True Star. The Last Ride is one of my favorites.
Posted By: Psychedelic Paul
Date Posted: June 16 2024 at 05:22
DOUGLAS FIR The tallest trees in the forest, being one of the most soulful psych bands you're ever likely to hear, sounding like a curious cross between Blood, Sweat & Tears and The Doors, but better than both. Yes, really!! Douglas Fir are from Portland in Oregon - a US state famous for its Douglas Firs, funnily enough.
1970: Douglas Fir - Hard Heartsingin' - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SptrJDSEuos" rel="nofollow - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SptrJDSEuos
Posted By: Hrychu
Date Posted: July 27 2024 at 19:32
Geira by Halina Frąckowiak is essentially a jazz/funk/soul album written and performed by a hardcore prog rock band (SBB). https://www.progarchives.com/album.asp?id=49395" rel="nofollow - https://www.progarchives.com/album.asp?id=49395
------------- “On the day of my creation, I fell in love with education. And overcoming all frustration, a teacher I became.” — Ernest Vong
Posted By: Droxford
Date Posted: September 27 2024 at 14:37
Billy Paul ' War of the Gods' title track .
Indirectly I think that the rise of Prog encouraged artists such as Isaac Hayes and Nina Simone, especially in concert and live records, to perform far longer pieces and to generally go beyond the standard 3 minutes structured tracks. But the influence of Jazz improvisation can not be understated either.
Posted By: Saperlipopette!
Date Posted: September 28 2024 at 01:35
Gnik Nosmirc wrote:
I am interested in prog albums with an emphasis on soul and funk.
I suppose I'm more into soul and funk artists with proggy elements rather than the other way around. Funkadelic - Maggot Brain is basically prog isn't it? I'm not personally the biggest fan of them, but that's beside the point.
Psychedelic Paul wrote:
Rotary Connection - the best Psychedelic Soul band of all time (featuring Minnie Riperton)
Yes, Minnie's debut album is a natural continuation of Rotary Connection. Complex like a Gentle Giant-song (more jazzy than proggy though) yet it's like the sound of a light breeze...
I think Marvin Gaye, Curtis Mayfield, Stevie Wonder, Isaac Hayes, Willie Hutch, The Temptations and many others were genuinely progressive in their approach to Soul/Funk in the (early to mid) 1970's. They rarely went full on Prog Rock, but they created their own fusion. Maybe because their music was generally easier on the ears and catchier, people don't seem to notice the sophistication in arrangements, complexity in composition and the level of musicianship on some of their iconic albums. Not in the same way.
Posted By: Saperlipopette!
Date Posted: September 28 2024 at 01:50
verslibre wrote:
AFlowerKingCrimson wrote:
Check out his first album Let Love Rule.
Heard all the old stuff, but that's the one that never grabbed me. My interest began (begins) with Mama Said.
I still think Let Love Rule has a handful of pretty great tracks, and this is my favorite song of his (lyrics by Lisa Bonet:)
Posted By: omphaloskepsis
Date Posted: September 28 2024 at 04:25
This thread convinced me to purchase The Temptations - "Psychedelic Soul" box set. The set includes eight songs over seven minutes long...with three songs longer than 12 minutes. A long song doesn't make prog...I know.
Sure, The Temptation's psychedelic soul might not be soul prog, but the Temptation's psychedelic era resides next door to prog soul.
Posted By: omphaloskepsis
Date Posted: September 28 2024 at 04:29
Does this count as soul prog?
Posted By: Psychedelic Paul
Date Posted: September 28 2024 at 05:40
Rotary Connection - I Am the Black Gold of the Sun (featuring Minnie Riperton)
Posted By: Saperlipopette!
Date Posted: September 28 2024 at 06:10
omphaloskepsis wrote:
This thread convinced me to purchase The Temptations - "Psychedelic Soul" box set. The set includes eight songs over seven minutes long...with three songs longer than 12 minutes. A long song doesn't make prog...I know.
It doesn't, but then again it doesn't need to be Prog to be good:). There was something unique happening all over the musical map during the early to mid 1970's. Hell, there was even some Country Rock/Pop artists producing something relativly ambitious and interesting. There's no reason The Temptations' most ambitious songs from this period wouldn't interest and engage a PA-regular.