Stevie Wonder Signed, Sealed And Delivered CD

Stevie Wonder was beginning to rebel against the Motown hit factory mentality in the early '70s. While he certainly hadn't lost his commercial touch, Wonder was anxious to address social concerns, experiment with electronics, and not be restricted by radio and marketplace considerations. Still, he gave the label another definitive smash with the title track, while sneaking in a cover of the Beatles' "We Can Work It Out" and penning more intriguing tunes like "I Can't Let My Heaven Walk Away" and "Never Had a Dream Come True." ~ Ron Wynn
As you listen to this album, you will inevitably find yourself lamenting the devastating shortage of hours in a day in which to continue grooving. 1970's SIGNED, SEALED AND DELIVERED marks another turning point for Mr. Wonder as his lyrics grow more world-conscious and the music gets indubitably funkier. Swift, dynamic bass-playing, deep clavichord and head-nodding riffs are just some of the elements which drive the new sound. Those who cherish his more sugary Motown nuggets of the '60s needn't fear, though--they too continue to claim a space.
The title track may well place you unwittingly en marche to the door of your sweetie. The high-stepping horn lines and husky rhythm section lay the foundation for a swinging vocal delivery laced with sitar. Stevie later holds church of the grooviest order on "Heaven Help Us All," raising his good will towards humanity to a thunderous crown of horns and choir. The thrilling "Sugar" and a lively rendition of "We Can Work It Out" display his highly effective technique of vocal layering through overdubs. This album is full of fine R&B with many tasty surprises.Rolling Stone (1/7/71, p.48) - "...Any of the 12 songs on [this album] holds more creative singing than you're likely to find in another performer's entire body of work...there's not one bad cut on the LP..."