As the first house band for Stax Records, the Mar-Keys helped create the very sound of Southern soul, and at their peak they were arguably one of the finest instrumental party bands in the history of the universe. Still, they only had a single hit, the marvelous and classic "Last Night" from 1961, although -- as this delightful anthology shows -- they knew how to go to the well and they did it time and time again. "Last Night" is here, as are lesser-known gems like the deliciously greasy "Plantation Inn" and the elegant, precise, but still soulful "Walking with the Duke," making this a fine introduction to a criminally unsung group. ~ Steve Leggett, AMG
Last Night Philly Dog Grab This Thing Hold It One Degree North Sack o' Woe Morning After Diana Alright Ok You Win Night Before About Noon In the Mood Plantation Inn Cleo's Back Honey Pot Walking with the Duke Ebb Tide Misty I've Been Loving You Too Long Girl from Ipanema Dear James Medley (I'll Go Crazy/Papa's Got a Brand New Bag/I Got You/Good Loving/Night Train)