Paul Weller: Under the Influence
Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
Sneaky title aside, Paul Weller: Under the Influence isn't a Weller album at all. Rather, it's a collection of 16 tracks chosen by Weller as long-time or recent favorites--the audio equivalent of Nick Hornby's Songbook. Fortunately, the former Jam and Style Council leader has diverse, appealing tastes.
To be expected from someone his age, Weller includes a lot of rock and soul from the late '60s and '70s. This includes both well-known artists (Marvin Gaye, the Kinks) and obscurities (the psych-pop Casuals, the sweet-soul Winstons). A bit more surprising is the disc's heavy dose of reggae (Bob Marley, of course, but also John Holt and Big Youth). And who would've previously guessed that Weller is a fan of hip-hop and harder R&B (proven here with tracks by Funkdoobiest, D'Angelo, and a greasy mid-'70s jam by the Headhunters).
Two classic jazz tracks--Charles Mingus's "Passions of a Man" and John Coltrane's "Olé"--are worthy picks, but sound a bit out of place. Still, it's hard to fault any collection that finds space for the '70s soul of the Five Stairsteps, the Blind Boys of Alabama covering Tom Waits, and even Richie Havens, represented here by a great 2002 track, "Handouts in the Rain." --Keith Moerer
Product Description
Paul Weller has been making vital music, whether during his time with The Jam, Style Council or solo, for well over two decades in his ever-changing career. His latest studio album Illumination went straight into the UK charts at number one and many critics hailed it as his best work in years. Equally his collection of B sides and rarities Fly On The Wall recently had a welcome release and he has just signed a new deal with V2.
Paul’s music has evolved over the years, and his Under the Influence selection shows the varied artists that have helped to shape the Weller style. From the rock ‘n’ roll of Little Richard to the roots of Ritchie Havens, from the reggae of The Wailers to the soul of Marvin Gaye, Under the Influence Paul Weller helps to understand what inspires the man and makes him tick.
Paul Weller: Under the Influence,Various Artists,Under the Influence,British Trad Rock,England,Pop,Pop Vocals,Pop/Rock,Popular Music,Rock/Pop
Rock Music:
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