Monday, May 20, 2024

Don Julian - Savage! [1973] + Don Julian and the Larks - Shorty The Pimp [1998]

DONE JULIAN

Don Julian - Savage! [1973] + Don Julian and the Larks - Shorty The Pimp [1998]

Don Julian - Savage! [1973]     This is an extraordinary piece of work that showcases his musical genius. This Soul and Soundtrack genre album is a reflection of Julian’s ability to craft a distinctive sound that strikes a chord with its audience. The album, released under the Money label, is celebrated for its diverse sounds and rhythm. It shines as a superb blaxploitation soundtrack, a genre that was in vogue during that period. Unlike many soundtracks of this kind that can become tedious, “Savage!” retains its charm from start to finish, offering a pleasurable auditory experience. A key feature of this album is its predominantly instrumental composition, with only a smattering of vocal elements. The album sets the mood with a brief dialogue at the beginning of Janitzio. The music is marked by the dominant use of flute and robust guitar, supported by groovy drums, resulting in a rich, multi-layered sound. “Savage!” doesn’t lean heavily on the typical 70’s soundtrack feel. It could easily be recognized as a commendable standalone release. It displays early funk instrumentals, hints of jazz in certain places, and naturally, soul. This fusion of styles lends depth to the album and makes it an engaging listen. “Savage!” by Don Julian is a significant album from the blaxploitation era. Its distinctive sound, varied rhythm, and instrumental composition make it a standout album, garnering positive reviews and securing its place in music history. It truly is a ‘savage’ addition to the musical world." (B)

Don Julian and the Larks - Shorty The Pimp [1998]     “Shorty The Pimp” by the gifted Don Julian and The Larks, unveiled in 1998 is an exceptional album. This album categorized is a reflection of Julian’s musical adaptability and his knack for crafting a distinctive sound that connects with listeners. Launched under the Southbound label, the album has garnered appreciation for its diverse sounds and tempo. It emerges as a superior soundtrack, a genre that was in vogue during that period. “Shorty The Pimp” retains its charm all through. A key characteristic of this album is its instrumental composition, with scant vocal elements. The music is marked by the significant use of flute and robust guitar, supported by rhythmic drums, resulting in a rich and multi-layered sound.  It exhibits early funk instrumentals, hints of jazz in certain places, and naturally, soul. This amalgamation of styles lends depth to the album and makes it an engaging listen.

This is another significant album from the blaxploitation era. Its distinctive sound, varied rhythm, and instrumental composition make it a standout album, earning it positive reviews and a special place in music history. (B)

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Track lists

Don Julian - Savage! [1973]

01 Don Julian - Title Theme: Savage 10:29

02 Don Julian - Lay It On Your Head 3:35

03 Don Julian - Where I'm Coming From 3:47

04 Don Julian - It's A Sad Song 1:41

05 Don Julian - My Favorite Beer Joint 7:53

06 Don Julian - Janitizio 5:35

07 Don Julian - Just Kiss Me 2:44


Don Julian and the Larks - Shorty The Pimp [1998]

01 Don Julian And The Larks - Shorty The Pimp 5:36

02 Don Julian And The Larks - Message From A Black Man 4:49

03 Don Julian And The Larks - Vato's Brew 4:58

04 Don Julian And The Larks - Schoolin' And Foolin' 3:27

05 Don Julian And The Larks - Super Slick 2:33

06 Don Julian And The Larks - Brother What It Is 8:04

07 Don Julian And The Larks - (Ooh Baby) I Love You 2:51

08 Don Julian And The Larks - Show And Tell 3:20

09 Don Julian And The Larks - Check Out Your Mind 2:51

10 Don Julian And The Larks - (If There's A) Hell Below 3:19

11 Don Julian And The Larks - Just Tryin' To Make It (Parts 1 & 2) 5:07

12 Don Julian And The Larks - A Woman Ain't Nothing But A Stone Trip 3:10

13 Don Julian And The Larks - Respect Yourself 3:34

14 Don Julian And The Larks - Inner City Blues 3:20

15 Don Julian And The Larks - I Love You 1:55

16 Don Julian And The Larks - My Cherie Amour 3:21

17 Don Julian And The Larks - The Look Of Love 3:51

18 Don Julian And The Larks - (What Does It Take To) Win Your Love 2:25

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6 comments:

  1. Thanks Butterboy for reminding me this nice artist!

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    1. Hi Little Bill,
      I love the track "Message from a Black Man", in fact it's all great to listen too.
      I am pleased this is a reminder for you to listen to these again.
      Cheers.

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  2. Once again an artist I'm not familiar with to dig into - thanks

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    Replies
    1. I’ve been listening to the ‘Savage!’ album since around 1973 and I’m really enjoy its varied sounds and pacing albeit mostly instrumental tracks, however it has a sophisticated sound that sets it apart from other soundtracks of the era. Also ‘Shorty the Pimp’ is a great mix of funk, soul, and stage & screen styles. I love the track "Message from a Black Man" I’m pleased you are looking forward to exploring Don Julian’s music!
      Cheers

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