Sly & the Family Stone

Soul/Funk: Sly & the Family Stone 'Greatest Hits'

Soul/Funk

Sly & the Family Stone "Greatest Hits” (Epic/Legacy)

Sylvester Stewart could accurately be called the father of modern funk, urban soul, black rock, hip-hop and 21st century jazz. That's a lot of stylist offspring, but Stewart — aka Sly Stone — with the help of his integrated family of players and singers, was the most prolific innovator in the business from 1967 through '69, and that's the golden era covered on Sly & the Family Stone's "Greatest Hits.”

All of the best truly are here, including the celebrative "I Want to Take You Higher,” the savvy unity anthems "Everybody Is a Star” and "Stand!,” the irresistible and rousing "Dance to the Music,” the uplifting anti-racist screed "Everyday People,” the sultry "Hot Fun in the Summertime,” and seminal funk-strutter "Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin).”

The group vocals, poppy melodies, popping basses, syncopated rhythms and socially-conscious lyrics Stewart brought to the R&B table still season the musical concoctions of today, but if you hunger for the original recipe, dig in to this re-mastered version of "one of the greatest party records ever made.” The liner notes aren't lying. This really is a greatest hits album that lives up to its name.

— Gene Triplett