Greg McLoughlin - Review - Booker T & the MGs

Greg's Album of the Month, December 2003

I don't know where to start when it comes to Booker T. & the MGs. I was introduced to them by the manager of my college radio station when he gave me a copy of this album to play on my show. I have been hooked for ten years. I've never heard anyone play the keyboards with as much soul as Booker T. Jones, and the band as a whole grooves like no other. They prove that you can keep things simple, and play with endless inspiration, without any vocals.

Originally released in 1968, this is the first album the band released on Stax records. In contrast to their earlier albums, released on Atlantic, the Stax records have longer running times on the individual tracks, which allow the MGs to stretch out and be more creative.

In my opinion, Soul Limbo is their second best album (my favorite is 1971's Melting Pot). However, this album cover is my favorite of all-time, and I wanted to display it on my web site.

From the opening cut, "Be Young, Be Foolish, Be Happy," to the closing track, "Foxy Lady," this album never tires.

I was lucky enough to see Booker T. & the MGs perform live in New York City three times. I saw them at Tramps in 1994 and 1999, and at the Beacon Theater in 1996. I am not sure if I will ever have the pleasure again, as they seem to be in retirement, but if they do tour again and you have the opportunity, be sure not to miss out.

If you have never been introduced to Booker T & the MGs before, I highly recommend that you pick up one of their albums right away.

	Greg's Album of the Month, December 2003

		I don't know where to start when it comes to Booker T. & the MGs. I was introduced to them by the manager of my college radio station when he gave me a copy of this album to play on my show. I have been hooked for ten years. I've never heard anyone play the keyboards with as much soul as Booker T. Jones, and the band as a whole grooves like no other. They prove that you can keep things simple, and play with endless inspiration, without any vocals. Originally released in 1968, this is the first album the band released on Stax records. In contrast to their earlier albums, released on Atlantic, the Stax records have longer running times on the individual tracks, which allow the MGs to stretch out and be more creative. In my opinion, Soul Limbo is their second best album (my favorite is 1971's Melting Pot). However, this album cover is my favorite of all-time, and I wanted to display it on my web site. From the opening cut, "Be Young, Be Foolish, Be Happy," to the closing track, "Foxy Lady," this album never tires. I was lucky enough to see Booker T. & the MGs perform live in New York City three times. I saw them at Tramps in 1994 and 1999, and at the Beacon Theater in 1996. I am not sure if I will ever have the pleasure again, as they seem to be in retirement, but if they do tour again and you have the opportunity, be sure not to miss out. If you have never been introduced to Booker T & the MGs before, I highly recommend that you pick up one of their albums right away.