All the best Riperton tracks reissued in a beautiful 2LP package. This compilation of handpicked Minnie Riperton classics is finally available again to the masses as a symbol of her enduring significance. The selection spans the gamut of her recording career and includes her most well known work like “Lovin’ You” and “Memory Lane”, as well as some greats you might not have heard yet like “I Am The Black Gold Of The Sun” from her early work with the band Rotary Connection. Other standout tracks showing off her cosmic groove are “Young, Willing and Able”, “Strange Affair” and the Stevie Wonder written “Take A Little Trip”. Front to back this is a righteous and soulful collection showcasing Riperton’s unbelievable vocal ability. Legend has it that her range spanned five octaves and maybe more which may or may not be true, but we do know that her legacy continues to inspire female vocalists to this day.

• music label: Stateside 2014

reviewed by boumtje-boumtje 092314