The Politicians - 'Psycha-Soula-Funkadelic' (The Hot Wax Sessions) Sequel NEMCD 444

More goodies again from Sequel who once again have issued another batch of rare CD's from Holland Dozier & Holland's label pairing of Hot Wax/Invictus. This time the rare CD from the Politicians gets a timely UK release. Fronted by McKinley Jackson this set could easily be fit into the current blaxploitation category with its early 70's wah wah style of guitar playing so reminiscent of the soundtracks of Isaac Hayes and Curtis Mayfield of the day. Best example check out the superb guitar playing on the track entitled 'Church'.

The Politicians were the house band for Hotwax/Invictus and their style of playing is so evident of the big hits of the label by the likes of Chairmen of the Board/Freda Payne/Honeycone/Laura Lee etc. Not an album for dancing, mind you it does include the instrumental version of 'Love Machine' which back in 1971 was my top floor filler at Manchester's Jilly's nightclub in Gore Street, where nothing could topple it from being the most requested single for almost three months. The vocal version featuring Jackson is here too.

If you prefer your music a little gentler then check out the gorgeously arranged 'A Song For You'  which could match Isaac Hayes' 'Ellie's Love Theme' any day of the week. A truly amazing arrangement  and must surely rank as one of the best tunes on the set.

The 'Politicians Theme' takes you on an instrumental journey again and another tune that could have been another 'Across 110th Street' for example. Classic blaxploitation at it's best. If your looking for a Hot wax CD full of dance hits then you will be disappointed, however if you want a really class album that gives the listener the best of what was on offer at the time from these now famous labels then this is a must purchase. Worth the price alone for Love Machine in it's instrumental form.

Rating 7/10
Expect top pay around £9.99 in the UK
Released July/August 1999.