Stylish Motown vibes by the Lee
STYLISTICS TO BRING THE DETROIT SOUND TO CORK
IN this talent show driven world where the music industry seems to revolve around short careers based on limited talent, it is good to know there are many bands out there whose longevity stands as testament to their musical ability.
Philadelphia-based quartet The Stylistics, who will play back-to-back gigs at the Cork Opera House tonight (Thursday) and tomorrow night, are a point in case.
Following the success of the O’Jays, The Spinners and the Delphonics, the ‘City Of Brotherly Love’ had just enough room for another successful soul group.
Up stepped the charismatic and stylish Stylistics, who quickly established themselves as one of the greatest ever soul bands, recording a raft of topten hits during the early 1970s.
Their road to global success started in 1971 when the band collaborated with Thom Bell, the genius behind ‘ The Philly Sound’, on their eponymous debut album.
The first single from the album, ‘You’re A Big Girl Now’, was a huge hit earning The Stylistics instant global acclaim.
Over the next three years the band released 12 top-ten hits with Bell, culminating in their Grammy nominate single ‘You Make Me Feel Brand New’.
The band’s emphasis on smooth, sweet ballads and their ability to vary style and tempo with each song, set them apart from the majority of their popular contemporaries, earning them a massive global audience.
Their second album ‘Bell’ released in 1974, underscored their billing as the world’s best soul band and a year later the release of the double-platinum ‘ The Best of the Stylistics’ ensured their place in the pantheon of musical greats.
Despite personnel changes over the ensuing years, the band still remained hugely popular selling out venues across the world and recording more than 40 albums.
The renewed interest in their music has seen the band play several world tours over recent years, proving that in a world of one-hit wonders and manufactured bands there is still room for quality acts that know their audience and have stood the test of time.
Tickets for their gigs at the Opera House, priced at €45 and €50, are available from the box office on 021 427 0022 or at www.corkoperahouse.ie.