Various Artists - Real 70's R&B / Various (CD)

All Music Guide

A budgetline tripledisc set from BMG, Real '70s: RB provides a random assortment of hits from throughout the decade in question, paying equal dues to ballads and cluboriented singles, many of which are excellent and essential for any soul fan. A high percentage of the picks have appeared on several other compilations, but this is still a decent way to gobble up a lot of music in one shot. Highlights include the Delfonics' "Didn't I (Blow Your Mind This Time)," the Five Stairsteps' "Ooh Child," the Hues Corporation's "Rock the Boat," Ray Parker, Jr. Raydio's "You Can't Change That," GQ's "Disco Night (Rock Freak)," and Odyssey's "Native New Yorker."

- Andy Kellman, All Music Guide