Customer Reviews

Menagerie

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Bill Withers is one of the most underrated African American singer/songwriters of the modern era-he's probably THEY most underrated of the 70's.If Bill's first masterpieces Just as I Am and Still Bill weren't enough proof then 'Menagerie' sure was.Released in 1977 this recording finds Bill Withers moving his sound into the late 70's,and unlike other artists such as his "sound" really wants to go there!The key to understanding Bill Withers is something my friend Henrique calls naturalness;it's what contemporary artists such as Macy Gray,John Legend and Jill Scott try very much to achieve.What Bill understands here is that "naturalness" has to come naturally or it defeats it's own purpose.And that is what makes this music so special;it's totally natural but he manages to bring contemporary late 70's style musical values into it without sacrificing his classic sound.And it starts out with one of his greatest songs too-'Lovely Day' feels like what it sounds like-love bringing on carefree emotions.That song actually sets the tone for the album;not that every track sounds alike but well crafted,uptempo compositions dominate this recording.There are some exceptions;Bill pulls out some stunning 70's funk with the grooving "Lovely Night For Dancing" and thankfully "She Wants To (Get Down)" manages to incorperate disco successfully.Strangly enough the real standout on this is a bonus track "demo" called "Rosie"-it's a piano ballad sung and composed in a manner befitting someone like Stevie Wonder;the style and vocal arrangement actually recalls Rufus Wainwright,himself about as far from Bill Withers as anyone musically.'Menagerie' really showcases the compositional creativity of soul musicians during this era,before they were forced to "compete" with the hip-hop beats of today.

God, how I love this man, his music, specifically the ballads, can take me to the most honest emotional places. This record is worth purchasing because it contains one of his finest recordings, surpassing all the hits and commercial junk he's known for: "Let me be the one you need." Listen to this song if you want to see how a man can express his vulnerablity and fragility, yet still retain his masculinity. Unbelievable.

I play this cd just about everyday and I agree also...the song, "Rosie" is one of the most moving, beautiful, breathtaking ballads I think I have ever heard. Buy this cd just for that. It's Bill and piano alone.

This album also has disco but the disco on this album is far from corny or cheesy. Trust me...it is slightly disco nothing hard core like Donna Summer but the jams are: Wintertime, She Wants to Get on Down, Lovely Night for Dancing, It Ain't Because of Me Baby, Lovely Day--the hit and a couple of ballads thrown in. Bill knows his stuff and he never disappoints.

I'm glad I found this. I love 70s music and this album is one of the reasons why 70s music is so much better than 90's or the waste material fecal matter they are churning out today.

Quintessential Bill. Includes tracks from the movie, "Looking for Mr. Goodbar". A must-have for Bill Withers fans.

Dear Sir or Madam at Amazon
I never received the CD in question. PLEASE send it to M.S. Santoro 918 E. Clements Bridge Rd. APT A-15, Runnemede, N.J. 08078 Hopefully, M.S. Santoro

Some say the message is in the music,i say this music speaks to me and i get the message.This is unadulterated organic soul food,absolutely no chemicals or preservatives added.Track one is my personl theme song for all the special people in my life who makes every day a lovely day...my highest recommendation.

Bill Withers was the Babyface of His time with His Thrifty style of Songwriting&getting down to the Basics with His Subject matters."Lovely Day","I want to Spend The Night" Among other Songs here showcase a Artist that deserves more Props than He gets.

Have always been a fan of Bill Withers. I have this original album but wanted it on CD.Seller shipping fast,item in excellent condition. I can now listen to this beautiful CD as I travel.