Feel Like Makin' Love

Feel Like Makin' Love- Album Overview

"Feel Like Makin' Love" is the fourth studio album by American singer-songwriter Roberta Flack, released in 1975 under the Atlantic Records label. The album showcases Flack's signature blend of soul, jazz, and pop, reflecting her powerful vocal delivery and sophisticated arrangements. The production of the album was helmed by the renowned team of Flack and her longtime collaborator, keyboardist and producer Arthur Wright, alongside other notable musicians such as bassist Chuck Rainey and drummer Bernard Purdie.

The album features a collection of tracks that further solidified Flack's place in the music industry, including the iconic title track "Feel Like Makin' Love," which became a major hit, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Other notable tracks include "Mr. Magic," which showcases her ability to blend jazz influences with contemporary sounds, and "I Love You, That's All," a poignant ballad that highlights her emotive vocal style.

In terms of cultural significance, "Feel Like Makin' Love" captures the essence of the mid-1970s musical landscape, where soul and pop began to intertwine more prominently. The album not only achieved commercial success, but it also received critical acclaim, earning Flack a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. The record's lush production and Flack's heartfelt delivery resonate with listeners, making it a timeless piece in her discography.

Review

The sound of "Feel Like Makin' Love" is characterized by its smooth melodies and intricate arrangements, which showcase Roberta Flack's vocal prowess. The lush instrumentation, featuring strings and soft percussion, complements her voice perfectly, creating a warm and inviting sound that draws listeners in. Lyrically, the album explores themes of love, romance, and intimacy, with Flack's emotive delivery adding depth to each song. Her ability to convey vulnerability and passion is particularly evident in the title track, where she captures the essence of longing and connection.

Flack's artistic vision shines through in her interpretation of each song, as she effortlessly weaves her own experiences into her performances. The seamless fusion of jazz elements with soul and pop not only showcases her versatility as an artist but also reflects the evolving musical landscape of the 1970s. Overall, "Feel Like Makin' Love" is a masterclass in vocal artistry and emotional expression, solidifying Roberta Flack's legacy as one of the greats in American music.

Highlights

• Flack's powerful and emotive vocal performance throughout the album.
• The seamless blend of jazz, soul, and pop influences in the arrangements.
• Iconic tracks like "Feel Like Makin' Love" and "Mr. Magic" that showcase her range and artistry.

Weak points

• Some tracks may feel dated to contemporary listeners.
• The production can occasionally overshadow the simplicity of the original compositions.
• A lack of diversity in tempo might make the album feel uniform to some.

Overall evaluation

"Feel Like Makin' Love" stands as a significant entry in Roberta Flack's catalog, showcasing her vocal talent and artistic vision. While it may have some weaknesses in terms of modern appeal, the album's emotional depth and lush arrangements continue to resonate with fans old and new.