Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings are already well known as one of the most exciting acts in the nation for both their explosive live shows and their prolific output of gritty studio recordings. I Learned the Hard Way is their fourth full-length on Brooklyn’s independent Daptone Records. The record marks a bold step forward for a band who almost single handedly stewarded today’s return of soul music to its more traditional sound. Sharon’s raw power, rhythmic swagger, moaning soulfulness, and melodic command set her firmly alongside Tina Turner, James Brown, Mavis Staples, and Aretha as a fixture in the canon of soul music. From the lush Philly-Soul fanfare that ushers in “The Game Gets Old” at the top of the record, to the stripped down Sam Cooke-style “Mama Don’t Like My Man” at the tail, the Dap-Kings dance seamlessly through both the most crafted and simple arrangements with subtlety and discipline.
Condition: Brand New Factory Sealed
TRACK LISTING
1 The Game Gets Old 3:55
2 I Learned the Hard Way 3:47
3 Better Things 3:39
4 Give It Back 3:21
5 Money 3:21
6 The Reason 2:19
7 Window Shopping 4:34
8 She Ain't a Child No More 2:34
9 I'll Still Be True 3:48
10 Without a Heart 2:44
11 If You Call 2:59
12 Mama Don't Like My Man 2:30
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