Sly & the Family Stone

On their second LP, Sly Stone and Co. hit the big time, thanks largely to the title track. A furious mix of psychedelic funk with serious soul and pop overtones, this 1967 classic established the San Francisco-based act as one of the most unique and original bands on the scene. Still awesome several decades after its release, it includes the standouts "Color Me True" and "Ride The Rhythm." This re-mastered reissue features bonus tracks "Higher," "I Can't Turn You Loose," and "We All Love."

One great song here--guess what. But highlighted by the 12-minute "Dance to the Medley," the thing moves, a groove album that pits Larry Graham's athletic bass against Gregg Errico's leadfoot drums, with articulate horns and multivalent vocals swirling and punching and meshing up top. (Grade - ***)