Raydio – "Rock On" (side 1) (1979) скачать в хорошем качестве

Raydio – "Rock On" (side 1) (1979)

Raydio – "Rock On" (side 1) (1979) Following the success of their self-titled debut and the massive hit single "Jack and Jill," Raydio returned in 1979 with their sophomore effort, Rock On*. The album faced the classic challenge of a follow-up—how to build on a winning formula without simply repeating it. While critical reception was mixed upon its release, with some critics finding it too derivative, *Rock On has since solidified its place as a quintessential funk and soul record, showcasing Ray Parker Jr.'s undeniable talent as a songwriter, producer, and guitarist. Rock On is a testament to Raydio's versatility and a clear attempt to mature their sound beyond the "nursery rhyme hit" of "Jack and Jill." While the group's debut was well-received for its polished pop-funk, this album dives deeper into funk grooves, soul ballads, and even hints of disco. The production is clean and sparkling, a trademark of Parker's work. The album's centerpiece and biggest hit, "You Can't Change That," is a smooth, laid-back dance track that exemplifies the group's appeal. Featuring the dual vocal stylings of Parker Jr. and Arnell Carmichael, the song's mellow verses and catchy chorus make it an enduring classic. It's a perfect example of their ability to craft a song that is both radio-friendly and musically sophisticated. Other tracks showcase a range of styles. The album opener "What You Waitin' For" and the title track "Rock On" deliver a more immediate, high-energy funk sound, with strong basslines and tight instrumental interplay. "More Than One Way to Love a Woman" is a smooth, soulful ballad that highlights Parker's ability to craft emotive melodies. The album closer, "Honey I'm a Star," is a fun, uptempo number that adds to the overall feel of the record as a collection of lively, feel-good music. While some critics at the time felt the album was lacking direction or originality, a modern listen reveals a different story. Rock On feels less like an imitation and more like a confident expansion of Raydio's sound. It's a cohesive and highly listenable record, with every track fitting into a broader narrative of late '70s funk and soul. The grooves are infectious, the vocals are superb, and Ray Parker Jr.'s guitar work is, as always, a highlight, providing a constant source of melodic and rhythmic hooks. Ultimately, Rock On is an album that delivered on its promise. It proved that Raydio was more than a one-hit wonder and that Ray Parker Jr. was a force to be reckoned with. While it may not have the same iconic status as some of the era's other masterpieces, it's a solid, gold-certified album that stands the test of time and remains a rewarding listen for any fan of funk, soul, and R&B. ---------------------------------------- tracklist A1 What You Waitin' For A2 Hot Stuff A3 You Can't Change That A4 Rock On Performer [Raydio] – Arnell Carmichael, Charles Fearing, Darren Carmichael, Larry Tolbert, Ray Parker Jr. Percussion, Drums – Ollie E. Brown* Piano – Sylvester Rivers Saxophone – Horatio Gordon, Norma Jean Bell Tambourine – Jack Ashford Trumpet – Ken Peterson Backing Vocals – Cheryl Brown, Franci Pearlman, Ken Peterson, Ollie E. Brown*, Valorie Jones Producer – Ray Parker Jr. Engineer, Mixed By – Ray Parker Jr. Written-By – Ray Parker Jr. Label: Arista – AB 4212 Format: Vinyl, LP, Album, Stereo Country: US Released: 1979 Genre: Funk / Soul Style: Soul, Funk, Disco #soul #funk #disco #leslievinyl