The Commodores (1974) The Zoo (Human Zoo) - LOST 70s GEMS

Starting with a demonic circus organ part reminiscent of the use of circus music in Sly and the Family Stone's many treatises on humanity and society. It uses the circus and zoo imagery as an interesting point of analysis, also used by The Stylistics and Chi Lites, as the Kennedy/ Johnson vision of a 'Big Society' was coming true in Urban America of the early 70s amid a worsening economiclandscape. Twangy guitars meow away in a dissonant manner as does a trumpet; an absurd addition contributing to the deranged circus, inmates-in-charge-of-the-asylum vibe is established. The funky rhythm guitars are metallic and bouncy and the group vocals are great on lines like 'I don't want to get down to that level!'. There is a definite Sly influence, like Assembly Line another track from this incredible debut album from The Commodores; the lyrics are powerful, particularly the line, 'We're treated like animals outside our cages'. Its all delivered slickly as a guitar is plucked endlessly at the end and the tension boiling all over this track. The Commodores wouldn't be known for being this political but it's shame as they displayed some great chops here to continue in the Sly tradition.