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Hall & Oates' 70's releases are like musical schizophrenia...sometimes Pop, sometimes Rock, sometimes Soul or R&B. Even after they scored hits with "Rich Girl" and "Sara Smile," interested music buyers couldn't tell just exactly...
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Hall & Oates' 70's releases are like musical schizophrenia...sometimes Pop, sometimes Rock, sometimes Soul or R&B. Even after they scored hits with "Rich Girl" and "Sara Smile," interested music buyers couldn't tell just exactly they were getting when they bought an H&O album. "Along the Red Ledge" continues this trend to (mostly) positive effect. The original "A" side is a collection of tunes in a Pop/Soul vein, though "Melody for a Memory" has it's share of rock guitar. This is the side where Daryl shines most as a vocalist. At times harsh and sardonic, then wistful and contemplative, his vocal arabesques are as impressive as they are unique to him. Of the two singles, "It's a Laugh" and "I Don't Wanna Lose You," the latter is the real winner, awash in a glorious Philly Soul arrangement. Even the gimmicky stereo separation of "The Last Time" seems to pay homage to R&B recordings of yore. With "Alley Katz," the album turns to a more guitar driven sound, akin to hard rock but miles from Heavy Metal. Oates' more subdued vocals are featured on a couple of tracks from this set, and he sounds fine. Though H&O and their backing band are more than up to the challenge, at least two of these tracks ("Alley Katz" and "Pleasure Beach") are predictable and dull. "Don't Blame It On Love" and "Serious Music" are standouts, along with the atmospheric closing cut, "August Day." This song is one of the most affecting tracks on the album, conjuring images of "heavy grey" skies and wistful regrets. Within a couple of years after this album, Hall & Oates nailed that elusive synthesis of Pop, Rock and Soul and began a string of top-selling singles and albums. Though "Along the Red Ledge" isn't as successful at bringing those styles together, it is a pleasureable listen and a memorable album overall. -Mic Comment | Permalink | Was this review helpful to you? (Report this)
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