Soul Finger – BAR-KAYS***

Soul Finger/Knucklehead/With A Child’s Heart/Bar-Kays Boogaloo/Theme From Hell’s Angels/You Can’t Sit Down/House Shoes/Pearl High/I Want Someone/Hole In The Wall/Don’t Do That

Bar Kays were an instrumental soul group from Memphis. After the release of Soul Finger several members of the band died in the air crash which killed Otis Redding. The title track was a US No. 17 hit single.

“It was pretty enjoyable with some nice lighter and calmer grooves. Good for a hot summer day, but they don't do much else for me. When the songs are playing it's like I'm constantly hoping for more to happen. Not bad, just lacking something special.”

“The blistering title track is an unquestionable Memphis soul classic, kicking off a strong set of eleven instrumental cuts. House wrecking numbers like Knucklehead, You Can't Sit Down and House Shoes are sure to get your party started. Sadly, this would be the first and last record from the original Bar-Kays line-up.”

“Even if you don't know the title, almost everyone knows the sound of Soul Finger, the 1967 hit off this Bar-Kays album. The track is shorthand in films for wild soul partying.”

“What you may not know is that Soul Finger is by far not the only selling point of this album. At a half hour, this is a concentrated tablet of the bluesy romps that were dance music all over the US, particularly the old south. With the gleaming exception of With A Child's Heart, simply one of the most beautiful ballads you may have never heard, this is essential soul and dance music.”

“A reasonable, energetic Booker T alternative. The funk isn't quite hard enough, but there's some powerful organ 'n' drum fills to stomp you awake.”

“The title tune of this great instrumental album is guaranteed to make you go right on the floor. This is typical raucous music from the 60s, and this album could please surf/hot rod music lovers as much as soul music ones. I know I overrate this album, but I love it so much. Great party music.”

“There are times when you just can't ask for more than a fun and upbeat instrumental R & B album. And for those times, Soul Finger fits the bill perfectly. The title track has irresistible charm and energy.”