Customer Reviews

Soul Finger

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The Bar-Kays were part of the next generation of Stax-Volt artists, entering a vibrant soul scene populated by the likes of Booker T. & the MG's, The Mar-Keys, Sam & Dave, William Bell, and Otis Redding. MG drummer Al Jackson, Jr. had taken the young group under his wing, gearing them up for this fantastic 1967 debut. The blistering title track is an unquestionable Memphis soul classic, kicking off a strong set of 11 instrumental cuts. House-wrecking numbers like "Knucklehead," "You Can't Sit Down" and "House Shoes" are sure to get your party started. Sadly, this would be the first and last record from the original Bar-Kays lineup. While on tour with Otis Redding, a tragic airplane crash took the lives of Otis and four members of the group, just six months after the release of this album. The remaining members (trumpeter Ben Cauley and bassist James Alexander) later reformed the group, playing back-up on several Isaac Hayes records and releasing a string of albums that moved their sound towards heavier funk with vocals. The CD reissue includes Booker T.'s original liner notes, testifying the promise of their contagious grooves. This disc is a very enjoyable and often overlooked gem. Definitely recommended for fans of '60s soul.

Even if you don't know the title, almost everyone knows the sound of "Soul Finger," the 1967 hit off this Bar Keys album. The track is shorthand in films for wild soul partying. Those cheers in the background could be at a '67 bogaloo dance hall or a 2010 techno rave. I even think the blasting fire siren horns and stomping beat are a precursor to 1990s house music.

If you are reading, you probably know the Bar Keys were the Stax backing band and a lot of them died on the same plane as Otis Redding, though they did reform
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What you may not know is that "Soul Finger" is by far not the only selling point of this album. At a half hour, this is a concentrated tablet of the bluesy romps that were dance music all over the US, particularly the old south.

With the gleaming exception of "With A Child's Heart," simply one of the most beautiful ballads you may have never heard, this is essential soul and dance music.

This is the kind of oldie that made you get up and dance even if you couldn't dance. Brings back memories of fun dancing.

Excellent CD! Order arrived ontime and in wonderful condition. It is nice to know you can procure cool items all the way out in Iraq!!

I seem to recall having a 45 of "Soul Finger" on the Volt label when I was about 4 years old. I still think it's a great song. The Bar Kays were similar to Booker T & The MGs, in fact Booker himself wrote the liner notes. This is great Stax/Volt instrumental music from the 60s. I just wish the sound quality was louder.

THE BAR-KAYS HAVE ALWAYS BEEN one OF THE BADDEST GROUPS EVER THAT NEVER GETS IT's Fair PROPS.THis DISC is still the Jam.THE TITLE CUT BUMPS TOO HARD.THE HORNS&GROOVES ARE CRISP&TIGHT.THEY DO SO MANY STYLES WELL.A MUST HAVE.

If you like Shaft-Isaac Hayes CD you'll love this.

The item I ordered was in new condition and arrived faster than expected.