What's Going On [Remastered] - Marvin Gaye > Reviews > Whats Going on (Re-mastered ) Marvin Gaye

Author's product rating:   

Originality	Groundbreaking
Lyrics	Sublime
Quality and consistency of tracks	Flawless
Value for Money	Excellent

Advantages:	one of the true greats
Disadvantages:	none  at all whatsoever  in any way shape or form

Recommend to potential buyers:

yes

Full review

Not an easy one to approach ,a bit like trying to review the bible
or Star Wars ,if you are one of the few people who havent heard "Whats Going On",then i can only urge you to try it ,this review will not make any difference as such but an idea of whats contained within may whet your appetite .

The "masterpiece "accolades have poured thick and fast since this l.p was released in 1971 on the slowly fading Tamla Motown label,any expectations based on your knowledge of that once great label are non applicable ,this record was a one off and the first of its kind ,from the sax floated title track to its gospel infused conclusion of "Inner City Blues ",everything in between
is linked like movements in a symphony as Marvin Gaye unleashes his own frustration and sadness on the state of America (circa1971) .

If you are familiar with the title track then nothing on this album veers too far away from that glorious floaty despair,each songs soul bleeds into the next song making it impossible to break it up into bite size chunks ,though "Mercy Mercy Me",does resemle a"hit single" ,it still doesnt isolate from the overall concept .which is a heavy stormy brew of Viet-Nam,racial tension,ecology,corruption and of course God.

Strangely absent from this record , the trademark overt sexuality
present on later albums ,i guess he had more important things
on his mind ,not so much religious in content more spiritual,but you can approach this record from two angles ,one its huge cultural relevance or as a piece of sublime uplifting soul/jazz,gospel music either approach will be equally as satisfying ,if you are not familiar with any of his work but are at least curious then i urge you to spend a few pounds on this wonderful record ,it wont change your life but it might make it a little easier at times.

The impact of great albums is not always instant and "Whats Going On"may well take a couple of listens ,but his angelic voice and knowing sincerity will win you over in the end i promise .