Some Things Never Change

Some Things Never Change- Album Overview

"Some Things Never Change" is the eleventh studio album by the legendary soul group The Stylistics, released in 1980 under the label, Avco Records. This album marked a significant moment in the band's career, as it came during a time when the group was transitioning into the 1980s and navigating the changing landscape of the music industry. The Stylistics, known for their smooth falsetto harmonies and lush arrangements, continued to showcase their signature sound while attempting to adapt to contemporary musical trends.

The production of the album involved collaborations with several notable musicians and producers. The band's core members—lead singer Russell Thompkins Jr., along with members Herb Murrell, Airrion Love, and James Smith—brought their unique vocal styles to the forefront, while the instrumentation featured a blend of classic soul and emerging pop influences. The album includes tracks that delve into themes of love, heartbreak, and nostalgia, which are hallmarks of The Stylistics' lyrical style.

Singles from "Some Things Never Change" include "You Make Me Feel Brand New," which achieved commercial success and reestablished the group's presence on the charts. The album's overall production is characterized by lush string arrangements and smooth brass sections, creating a rich auditory tapestry that complements the emotive lyrics.

Despite facing challenges in maintaining their popularity during the late 70s and early 80s, The Stylistics managed to deliver an album that resonated with their loyal fan base. "Some Things Never Change" remains a significant entry in their discography, showcasing the enduring quality of their music and the timelessness of their themes.

Review

The sound of "Some Things Never Change" encapsulates the essence of The Stylistics while also embracing the evolution of soul music at the dawn of the 1980s. The album opens with a melodic flourish, instantly recognizable as a Stylistics hallmark, drawing listeners into a world of romantic nostalgia. Thompkins's falsetto shines throughout, particularly on standout tracks, where his vocal delivery evokes deep emotional resonance.

Lyrically, the album explores familiar territories of love and longing, with tracks such as "You Make Me Feel Brand New" encapsulating the quintessential Stylistics experience. The lyrics are heartfelt and relatable, appealing to both longtime fans and a new audience. The artistic vision presented in this album reflects a commitment to maintaining their identity while also adapting to the shifting musical landscape of the late 20th century.

However, while the album retains the group's signature sound, some tracks may feel formulaic to listeners who are well-versed in The Stylistics' previous work. Overall, the album succeeds in blending classic soul with a modern twist, providing a refreshing yet familiar listening experience.

Highlights

• Strong vocal performances by Russell Thompkins Jr. that showcase his emotive range.
• Lush orchestral arrangements that enhance the romantic themes of the lyrics.
• Memorable singles that reaffirm The Stylistics' status in the soul genre.

Weak points

• Some tracks may feel repetitive to seasoned fans of The Stylistics.
• Production may come off as overly polished for those who prefer rawer sounds.
• Limited experimentation with new musical styles compared to their earlier work.

Overall evaluation

"Some Things Never Change" stands as a testament to The Stylistics' resilience and ability to adapt to changing musical landscapes. While it may not be their most groundbreaking work, it certainly offers a rich listening experience filled with emotional depth and classic soul elements that define their legacy.