Under The Influence - Paul Weller (Record)

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Under The Influence - Paul Weller
Record

The 16 tracks gathered here are Weller's selections, either as long-time favorites or recent discoveries. It's like an audio version of Nick Hornby's music essay, "Songbook." Fortunately, Weller, formerly the leader of The Jam and The Style Council, possesses a diverse and captivating sense of taste.

As expected from his age, Weller has chosen numerous rock and soul tracks from the late 60s and 70s. These include well-known artists like Marvin Gaye and The Kinks, as well as lesser-known artists such as The Casuals (psychedelic pop) and The Winstons (sweet soul). Somewhat surprisingly, reggae has a significant presence, with selections from Bob Marley, John Holt, and Big Youth. Furthermore, who would have imagined that Weller was a fan of hip-hop and hard R&B? Tracks by Funky Doobiest and D'Angelo, along with a dense mid-70s jam by The Headhunters, reveal this hidden side of Weller's taste.

The two classic jazz selections ("Passions of a Man" by Charles Mingus and "Olé" by John Coltrane) are excellent choices, although they feel a bit out of place. However, there's no faulting his discerning eye for 70s soul. The Five Stairsteps, The Five Blind Boys of Alabama covering Tom Waits, and even Richie Havens appear with his superb 2002 track "Handouts in the Rain." (Keith Moerer, Amazon.com)