Graham Central Station - Release Yourself (1974)

Slicker and less original than their debut album, as Graham runs his formula of superficially engaging riffs (title track) and feel-good catchphrases ("Got To Go Through It To Get To It") into the ground. Even the funkiest tracks ("I Believe In You," recently a concert staple of the Artist Formerly Known As Prince) suffer from the too-smooth production (which is credited to God). But he doesn't have the subtlety or melodicism to really pull off smooth soul, making this a rather disapppointing listen. Still, his lively good humor and virtuosity keep things from getting too terrible. Again, Graham plays many of the tracks, backed by the same basic band as the previous release. --David Bertrand Wilson, WARR.org



Larry Graham - Bass, Guitar, Arp, Vocals
Choclet - Drum Machine, Vocals
Hershall Happiness - Clavinet
Robert Sam - Organ
"Wild" Willie - Drums
Dynamite Vega - Guitar
Greg Adams - Trumpet
Mic Gillette - Trombone
Lenny Pickett - Saxophone
Stephen Kupka - Saxophone
Emilio Castillo - Saxophone