First released in 1973, this ninth studio album from Gladys Knight & The Pips made quite an impression on the charts and was their most successful record. This limited-issue vinyl version comes with the original cover and back cover artwork, as the timeless nine songs sound great on the 140-gram High Quality Virgin Vinyl.
The soulful textures of “Neither One Of Us (Wants To Be The First To Say Goodbye)” start the listen with Knight’s unmistakable voice that suits the dreamy backdrop and arrangements from Artie Butler and Michael O’Martian. “It’s Gotta Be That Way” follows with gentle keys and light percussion alongside the intimate yet powerful singing, and “This Child Needs Its Father” continues the unparalleled vocal performance with much emotion and well-timed backing vocals.
“Who Is She (And What Is She To You)” wraps us Side A with some funk flavor, where the grooves and rich song craft is much appreciated, and Side B leads with the bright mood of “And This Is Love.” Arranged by James Carmichael, the intricate bass lines and soaring brass won’t go unnoticed.
Closer to the end, the call-and-response singing of “Can’t Give It Up No More” complements the flowing melodies of the album’s best, and “Don’t It Make You Feel Guilty” finishes out the album with a playful spirit, where David Van DePitte’s arranging makes for soul, R&B and funk sounds that sound as great today as they did in the ’70s.
An important body of work for the band and soul music as a whole, Neither One Of Us hit the #1 spot on the Billboard Soul Chart and #9 on the Billboard LP Chart. No surprise here; something tells me, if this album were released today, it would make a similar impact.
