Various Artists
(Numero Group)
East St. Louis isn't just about the doodle-doo. Not the Illinois one anyway. Allan Merry knew that. His YoDi and Merry labels were proof, streaming as they did a boldly string-and-brass filled swirl of awkward but earnest socially conscious lyrics, flitting hollowed-out rhythms and epic sweet melodies reminiscent of rawer versions of what the Philly International Records label would issue after its prime movers ran from Cameo-Parkway between the end of the ‘60s and the beginning of the ‘70s. But instead of building upon the talents of old world pros as did Gamble & Huff with PIR, Merry took from the streets 80 youths, gave them instruments, microphones, studio time and the most important element - inspiration and faith - and told them to make with their own revolution.
That they made lovely harmony-filled ballads (Ames Harris' "Checking Myself," Sharon Clark's "I'm Not Afraid of Love") and brisk funk workouts (Yong Disciples Co.'s "Crumbs from the Table") that were credible for street kids would be enough. That each track is an epiphany of soul and strength - if not mawkish ambition - really shows the might of Merry's belief in the found-talent and their beliefs in themselves. With every song speedily rendered or satiny smooth slightly off-kilter, these picayune versions of songs inspired by Ben E. King, Frankie Lymon, Burt Bacharach and Curtis Mayfield were to soul what ESG were to hip hop -oddly beautiful.
In particular the click-clacking "Girls Girls Girls" (Young Disciples) the withdrawn "Outside of Memphis" (Dede Turner Happening, who makes a few swanky sounds within) and the heart pounding "That's A Good Reason" (Sharon Clark & Product of Time) prove that East St. Louis was more worthy of note than we saw fit to give. Shame on us.
Standout Tracks: "The World Is Changing" (LeVal Moore); "Third Flight" (Third Flight) A.D. AMOROSI
