MARVIN GAYE Schallplatten & CDs

Review: Marvin Gaye's When I'm Alone I Cry reissue is full of the soulful legend's early aspirations to break into the jazz and pop markets. Recorded in 1964, Gaye's smooth, silky voice, draws clear inspiration from icons like Nat King Cole and Frank Sinatra and the album is a collection of jazz standards, demonstrating Marvin's deep passion for a more adult sound. The production on When I'm Alone I Cry is polished, with lush orchestrations that perfectly complement Marvin's gentle, emotive vocals, with tracks like 'I Was Telling Her About You', the title track and 'If My Heart Could Sing' particularly amazing, revealing Gaye's ability to convey deep emotion. Though the album didn't achieve the same commercial success as his later works, it's a treasure for those studying Marvin's artistry, highlighting his versatility and desire to explore different genres. Fans of Billie Holiday's Lady in Satin or Sinatra's In The Wee Small Hours will appreciate the album's tender, melancholic mood.

Review: In 1972, Marvin Gaye set to work recording what was scheduled to become the follow-up to his greatest single studio album, the previous year's "What's Going On". In the end, only one single from that mooted set ever appeared - "You're The Man", a weary assessment of that year's U.S Presidential Election - and Gaye's bitter arguments with Motown continued. This intriguing album tries to set the record straight, gathering together work completed for the shelved album with newly mixed songs based around previously unfinished works. There's much to admire throughout, with the material flitting between the kind of lusciously orchestrated, conscious songs featured on Gaye's previous set and more commercial-sounding Motown pop (much of which was produced by Willie Hutch).

Review: Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell's first duet album is a definitive collection of classic soul, and still one of Motown's most beloved releases. Featuring four monumental hitsi'Ain't No Mountain High Enough', 'If I Could Build My Whole World Around You', 'Your Precious Love', and 'If This World Were Mine'ithe album showcases the impeccable chemistry between Gaye and Terrell, and their ability to deliver emotional depth with ease. The production, with its lush string arrangements and smooth rhythms, perfectly complements the pair's soulful delivery. Though the album features familiar, chart-topping tracks, it also offers deep cuts that reveal a more intimate side of the duo's connection. The seamless blend of Gaye's rich, velvety voice and Terrell's bright, soaring vocals is the cornerstone of these timeless songs. While Gaye had already earned his place as a key figure in Motown, this collaboration with Terrell would solidify their roles as one of soul music's most iconic duos. United is a masterclass in classic soul, built on love, harmony, and timeless vocals.