LP Review: Pall Mall Groove
Released: 1977
LP Charts: nada
After their one LP with Barry White’s production crew, the band not yet known as Switch moved along. Temporarily assuming the name Hot-Ice, they released Pall Mall Groove in 1977. It’s an album that was a disco-funky good time. However the LP was only put out in Europe by Polydor Records.
A couple years later, after they’d become famous on Motown Records as Switch, this album was re-released in the US by MCA as Smash under the band name Smash. Clearly an attempt by their old label to cash in on a monosyllabic “S” name and greatly confusing us all in the future.
Funky Stuff
The title track is a rip-roaring jazz-funk escapade as is the album closer, “Funk Freak”. “Anyway” isn’t as fast-paced, but damn if it ain’t as jazzy and funky. “Don’t Waste My Time” is heavy R&B packed with requisite ‘70s rhythm guitar and bass. Frankly, “Waste” nearly has a go-go beat now that I think about it. Meanwhile, “Where’s the Party” is some grimy deep funk.
The Soul
“I'm Gonna Give (My Whole Life To Music)” kills the funk groove with a replacement-level knock off on the Stylistics’ brand of Philly Soul, which by 1977 was already passé. “Your Love” has a pretty groove, but the rough lead vocals don’t fit well within it. “Please Don't Let Me Go” is a bit better since its soul groove, albeit less interesting than “Your Love” is better suited for the vocal performance of Bobby DeBarge. Context matters is the lesson, I suppose.
ALBUM GRADE: C+
Nothing here is amazing, but this is a very solid album with no wretched or disappointing low points. However, the funky stuff definitely outclasses the soul. Anyhoo, a generally funky time for those so inclined.
Song Scores
Pall Mall Groove: 7/10
Anyway: 7/10
I'm Gonna Give (My Whole Life To Music): 6/10
Don’t Waste My Time: 6.5/10
Where’s the Party: 7/10
Your Love: 5/10
Please Don't Let Me Go: 6.5/10
Funk Freak: 7/10