Son of famed R&B star Johnny Otis, Shuggie Otis had, and actually still has, an impressive career on his own. This 2 cd set includes the classic 1974 psychedelic soul album Inspiration Information as well as a previously unreleased and just as impressive Wings of Love, which is an amalgamation of unreleased live and studio tracks.
The 9 song Inspiration Information has an additional 4 bonus tracks from 1971, and they all fit together quite well in one package. The music is definitely of its time, and has hints of bands like Hendrix, Sly Stone, Stevie Wonder and Arthur Lee and Love. His voice is sort of a heart on sleeve Todd Rundgren, sounding vulnerable and soulful at the same time, mixing hip horns and gentle funky grooves. Through the whole listen, you feel like you’re with an unappreciated artist, as these “simple” tunes have a depth so lacking these days. Anyone want to bring these songs back to the forefront. Surprisingly impressive!
Epic/Legacy Records