Eccentric Soul: The Big Mack Label

Description

Is it possible that soul is the most malleable of all popular music genres? That the form and conventions of soul music are sturdy enough to help create moving and entertaining sounds regardless of the strengths or sophistication of the performer? The Numero Group's Eccentric Soul series has already proven three times over (with their Capsoul, Bandit and Deep City Label compilations) that there's a wealth of unheard independently-produced soul music waiting for those willing to dig through the old record bins, and The Big Mack Label compilation continues that endeavor. Big Mack was Ed McCoy, a Detroit businessman who from the mid 60s to the early 80s offered anyone with $14.95 and a dream the chance to walk in off the street and cut a track in his studio. The good, bad and ugly results of this democratic approach are all captured here - from Edd Henry's witty "Your Replacement Is Here" and the nearly-sublime harmony of Bob & Fred's "I'll Be On My Way" to the faux-eroticism of Essence's cover of "Fever". What's most compelling about this collection is that it captures these performers with their strengths and flaws intact, in what was likely their one shot at immortality - you can almost imagine yourself in the mix, plunking down $14.95 to chase your own aspirations of fame, with one take to shoot for the stars. --Ben Heege The fourth volume in the Eccentric Soul series examines the oil stained underside of the Motor City sound. Big Mack records lasted an incredible 20 years without so much has a sniff of a hit. Dogged by lack of airplay, distribution and a general lack of understand of the music industry, the label failed on almost ever level, except where it counted: The music. From soulful doo-wop to blistering garage funk, and sultry R&B. Artists include: Bob & Fred, the Manhattens, Edd Henry, Ms Tyree Jones, the Soul President and more! "Remarkably solid...If you're into soul music and haven't discovered this series yet, do it now." -- Pitchforkmedia.com, June 15, 2006