Various Artists - Ultimate 70's R&B Smashes (CD)

All Music Guide

Released to celebrate Atlantic's 50th anniversary, Ultimate '70s RB Smashes is a budget-priced, 14-track collection that culls highlights from the Atlantic vaults. The collection features cuts by Clarence Carter ("Patches"), Donny Hathaway ("The Ghetto, Pt. 1"), the Spinners ("I'll Be Around"), Dr. John ("Right Place Wrong Time"), Blue Magic ("Sideshow"), AWB ("Pick Up the Pieces"), the Jimmy Castor Bunch ("The Bertha Butt Boogie, Pt. 1"), Ben E. King ("Supernatural Thing, Pt. 1"), the Trammps' ("Disco Inferno"), Slave ("Slide") and Sister Sledge ("We Are Family"). It's a solid sampler that indicates the richness of the label's roster, and for the curious or listeners on a budget, it's an introduction well worth its price.

- Stephen Thomas Erlewine, All Music Guide