This 1975 album introduced to the world to the slick yet groovy instrumental stylings of the Salsoul Orchestra, a group of Philadelphia session musicians spearheaded by vibes player Vincent Montana. Since many of the musicians (including Montana) also participated in the recordings of MFSB, it's not a big surprise that The Salsoul Orchestra explores a similar vein of orchestral soul. The difference between the two is that the Salsoul Orchestra explores a more Latin-oriented style with a heavy emphasis on congas and other forms of exotic percussion. This style is neatly encapsulated in the lead-off track Salsoul Hustle, which is built on a contrast between a dreamy, string-led melody and a series of funky instrumental breakdowns spiced with conga tattoos. Other highlights in this style include You're Just The Right Size, which layers sweet orchestrations and a female chorus cooing the title chant over a synthesizer-layered groove while Salsoul Rainbow glides forth on a fusillade of congas and wah-wah guitar riffs. On the downside, The Salsoul Orchestra occasionally allows their slickness to overpower their r&b backbone and the result is disco-flavored easy listening like Tangerine and Love Letters. Another problem is the album's highlights, as funky as they are, often have a cookie-cutter feel to them: for instance, Salsoul Hustle and Tale Of Three Cities are built on strikingly similar arrangements that hinge on the contrast between string-led flights on fancy and funky grooves from the rhythm section. Despite these shortcomings, The Salsoul Orchestra shapes up as a solid disco album that will entertain anyone who enjoys orchestral soul. ~ Donald A. Guarisco, Rovi

1		Salsoul Hustle
2		Get Happy
3		Chicago Bus Stop
4		You're Just the Right Size
5		Tangerine
6		Tale of Three Cities
7		Salsoul Rainbow
8		Love Letters

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