Diana Ross & Marvin Gaye (1973) Stop, Look, Listen (To Your Heart) - LOST 70s GEMS

 While this excellent collaboration between two of Motown's biggest solo singers is well produced its dominated by two Stylistics' covers, that not only outdo the originals but incorporate a Philly styled production showing where the musical tide was at the moment. While Motown still had strong artists like Stevie Wonder and the Commodores, the Philadelphia International Records boasted the top vocals groups of the day who dominated the soul charts in the early 70s. Its clear Berry Gordy wanted to capture a grand Philly sound in the just these two singles whilst the erst of the album has a more classic big band Motown sound

 It starts with a sweetly lyrical wah-wah guitar line and Gaye's inimitable wail before the thunderous piano progression enters; the whole package is decorated with coursing strings punctuated by twinkly vibraphones. The bright fluttering melody of piano, vibes are magical and far punchier than the sleepy smoothness of Philly Soul. Even the electric guitar and horns try to mimic the smoky bellow of the oboe; which featured in the Stylistics' recordings.

Both Ross and Gaye's vocals are caressing in a breathy manner while Gaye is earthy, Ross is incandescent and its this balance of strident choruses and deep solo spots that makes this album so endearing. But no matter what its the astonishing instrumental sound of this track, My Mistake and You are Everything which is what makes this such an important record. Its a perfect meeting point of the Detroit and Philly sounds bringing ghostly revered vocals, harpsichords, harmonicas, flighty strings, sweet wah-wah guitars, congas and vibraphones to create a colourful and unique brand of soul music. 

 The key link between these tracks are ghostly reverbed vocals, broken up piano beats, cascading string sections and a smooth wah wah guitar line; exquisite. I recommend you stop look and listen to My Mistake and You Are Everything from the same album for their gorgeous production.