At Studio 54

R&B / Soul · 2002 · 13 tracks

At Studio 54

A compilation of electrifying live performances from James Brown at the legendary Studio 54, capturing the raw energy and unparalleled showmanship of the Godfather of Soul in his prime, delivering rel

July 2002 · Discograph

This album is a direct portal to the sweaty, ecstatic dancefloor of Studio 54, with James Brown at the helm, commanding every beat. It's pure, unadulterated funk and soul, delivered with an intensity that only the Godfather could muster live. Expect explosive horn sections, a rhythm section tighter than a drum, and Brown's iconic, raspy vocals pushing every track to its absolute limit. This isn't just music; it's an experience, a relentless groove designed to make you move, sweat, and testify. AllMusic praised its ability to capture Brown's legendary live prowess, making it an essential document for any funk enthusiast.

Tracklist · 13 Tracks

01

Body Heat

5:17

02

Cold Sweat

3:17

03

Get on the Good Foot

4:13

04

Get Up Offa That Thing

6:09

05

Gonna Have a Funky Good Time (Doin’ It to Death)

2:55

06

I Got That Feeling

2:47

07

Try Me

4:29

08

Jam

5:02

09

Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag

2:34

10

Medley: It’s a Man’s, Man’s, Man’s World / Lost Someone / It’s a Man’s, Man’s, Man’s World

15:01

11

Please, Please, Please

2:54

12

Get Up (I Feel Like Being a) Sex Machine

6:39

13

The Payback / It's Too Funky Here (medley)

4:17

Moments Worth Listening For

The relentless, intricate drum and bass groove that kicks off "Get Up (I Feel Like Being a Sex Machine)," immediately setting the tone for a high-energy performance.

A specific, extended horn section breakdown in "Give It Up or Turnit a Loose," where the brass players trade sharp, percussive riffs, igniting the crowd.

James Brown's spontaneous vocal ad-libs and call-and-response with the audience during "Papa's Got a Brand New Bag," showcasing his unparalleled stage presence.

The moment the band drops into a deep, hypnotic funk vamp on "Cold Sweat," allowing each instrument to shine in a tightly controlled, yet free-flowing jam.

Reviews

AllMusic

Where This Album Departs

How does At Studio 54 sound next to the rest of James Brown's catalogue?

Euphoric+2.0σ

Euphoric saturates this record far more than the artist's norm.

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