Ranked number 6th on the all-time greatest albums by music magazine Rolling Stone, this creation is more relevant today than it was in 1971, when it was released. With introspective lyrics on poverty, drug abuse, Vietnam war, ecological problems etc. this one set a new trend in the genre of ‘Soul’. Nine tracks, one leading up to another in a song cycle manner as it ends on a reprise to the album’s opening theme. One of the best opening themes, ever! A simple, subdued tone is held throughout, pillowed by a densely-textured instrumental and vocal backing. At first this sameness in sound persisting from one song to the next may seem repetitive, but gradually the concept of the album takes shape and its wholeness becomes very affecting. The style is set in the first cut, What's Going On, with its sweet horn opening theme; Gaye's soft, simmering voice reflecting in on itself beautifully; the contrast of congas and strings; breaks an exciting jumble of street-corner jive and scatting. Now about the last track...Inner City Blues. For me, it’s the finest cut. Beginning with the Bongo beats and Gaye's soft Dah Dah Dah, the song sets in the mellow funk mood which always gets me moving! Lyrically, it talks about the difficult life in the ghettos of inner-city America (and that’s why it will ‘make you wanna holler’). The contrast of difficult times with the funky beat makes this one memorable, forever, reminding me of the usage of ‘Layla’ solo in Goodfellas (if you remember). Taking the album full circle, the track beautifully blends into the opening theme of the first track, Whats Going On. Pick up this one give it a spin on your turntable to know why it’s such a landmark album. It’s on my list of Top 10 albums of all time and it’ll always be that way, I guess.

Release date: May 21, 1976

Genre: Soul, R&B

Reviewed by Meraj Hasan

Meraj Hasan is a Mumbai based communication professional (and an amateur poet/musician) with a passion for listening to music the vinyl way. His 25 year old Technics turntable along with a humble collection of LPs across genres like Classic rock, Classical, Blues and Jazz (amongst others) are his prized possessions. He can be reached at +91 9833410791 or email: meraj.hasan@gmail.com .