Recorded - March 27, 1967
Released - April 10, 1967
#1 for weeks of May 20, 27 & June 17 and 24, 1967.
1966 was a very good year for The Rascals. With a number one single ("Good Lovin'") and numerous other classics such as "You Better Run" released as well, they ended the year well-ensured to go down in music history. Now, many bands and artists of the time would never manage to live up to that initial success, but not The Rascals. 1967 turned out to be an even better year for them, and it was their second single of the year, "Groovin'", that became their second chart topper.
In my previous review of "The Happening" by The Supremes, I mentioned how the song touched up on countercultural issues, but in a very outsider-ish way. "Groovin'", on the other hand, only mildly touches up on these new ideals, yet it feels so much more free-spirited. With lyrics about relaxing in the summertime, and with a very outdoorsy harmonica part, the song transports the listener to a front porch in the country, on a lazy summer's day.
Written by organist/lead singer Felix Cavaliere and vocalist/percussionist Eddie Brigati, "Groovin'" showcases a drastically different sound from the group. With no drum kit and a laid back guitar part, the key word is mellow. Due the prominent use of congas, "Groovin'" has a very Latin-jazz feel to it. Considering this was coming from a group best known for blue-eyed soul rock numbers, it's an amazing progression. The vocal arrangement of "Groovin'" remains one of The Rascals' best. Felix's trademark blue eyed soul vocals blend well with the very intricate backing vocals.
"Groovin'" also works lyrically in that its themes of relaxtion are quite universal in terms of who can appreciate them. This song happened to be the first #1 during the "Summer of Love" and with its gentle mellow feel, it certainly appealed to the more progressive youth of the day. Yet there are no late '60's fad lyrics such as "Far Out" or "Trippy" so the song doesn't come across as dated.
I'd highly recommend diving deeper into The Rascals' catalog as they have quite a few gems that deserve a modern appreciation. The album Groovin' is one of their best, and This streak of high quality material would continue and then peak in 1968. It was in that year that The Rascals scored one final #1 hit with the classic "People Got To Be Free".
Final Verdict - "Groovin'" shows just how much more mature The Rascals' music had become. With a Latin jazz-esque music track and a stellar sunny vocal arrangement, I'd certainly say it was a deserved #1.
Coming Up Next - "Respect" by Aretha Franklin.
Until Next Time, I'm Dr. Rock, and I'm Groovin' on a dark winter's afternoon -
No comments:
Post a Comment