Essential Collection

For me, this 2-CD collection of Maze songs was a pure soul revelation. I'm a huge fan of soul music, particularly the stuff from what I consider the "golden era" of soul music, the early 1960s through the mid 1970s. Maybe because of that personal cutoff date, I never heard many songs by Maze back when they were having hits on the R&B charts. They released their first album in 1977 and by that time my musical interests were straying in other directions. Which is a shame, because I realize now that I missed out on some great music that this group made in the late '70s and throughout the 1980s.What triggered my rediscovery of Frankie Beverly and Maze was hearing the song "Color Blind" on a compilation album last year. It was a tremendous song with a deep funky groove. After being struck by that song I wanted to hear more so I looked into getting a compilation by this group. As you can see, scrolling through the selections on Amazon, there are plenty of "Hits" and "Best Of" collections available. I chose this one because it's a 2-CD set with what looked like a good selection of songs, plus it had "Color Blind" on it, a tune that wasn't found on many other collections.Anyway, after finally hearing more songs by this group, I am truly blown away. Frankie Beverly is obviously a talented singer, but the songs are the group's real strength, and the ones on these two discs are all keepers. From ballads to silky soul and funkier numbers, plus some impressive instrumental excursions, this group truly excels at delivering the goods. I hear an Isley Brothers influence in many songs, and bits of Philly Soul and Motown in some of the other tracks. But when all is played and sung, Maze simply sounds like Maze. After all those "lost years" I'm thrilled that I have belatedly discovered their music. This is first-class soul/R&B music, without a doubt!

I've been a fan of Frankie Beverly and Maze since they came on the scene in the 1970s. This package is, I think, the most complete one of their hits. It's special to have a long career with a sound that's all your own, and they are blessed to have that, mainly because of the distinctive and soulful vocals of Frankie Beverly. Considering their greatness, it's a travesty that they haven't had the opportunity to release new material in 20+ years, but their fan base remains loyal. Featuring "Happy Fellings", "Back In Stride Again" "Joy and Pain", and "Southern Girl" along with many other great hits, it's a must buy and again the best buy for any fan wanting a single CD to cover the range of their music

Love, love, love this collection! Amazingly enough I have only become a Maze fan in the last few years. I was looking for a collection that had all of their hits and this is it. I highly recommend it to any Maze fan, old or new.

Enjoy the cd, I only play the songs I'm familiar with, so it serves it purpose, I'm going to have to make a cd, since I have ordered so many cd's from amazon.

Excellent

This was a real blast from the past for me. All of a sudden I wanted to hear this collection and there it was. I enjoy this CD at least once a week.

Excellent collection of the best of Maze.

Love Maze album very clear

If you haven't heard of Maze and Frankie Beverly, this is the ideal collection to start with and entice your taste buds to want more. Having had the pleasure of seeing them in concert several times, they are one of the few bands that I can say, hand on heart, sound exactly the same live as they do on disc. The band are so tight musically and Frankie's vocals so silky, it's unreal. Even if this is the only Maze slice of music that you buy, if the opportunity ever arise's to see them in concert, Do it, you won't regret it, and end up singing "Joy and Pain" all the way home.....Bliss!

Got this for the full-length live version of 'joy & pain' and i was not disapointed as this is a good album. Maze is a very underated band and Frankie Beverly has an amazing voice.To think they have not made any new songs for years but they still have a massive fan base in the UK thanks to DJs like Greg Edwards,Robbie Vincent and several others. Also the Caister Soul Weekenders.Good album.Soulful.

Even though I have Maze tracks on vinyl, I could not resist buying this double CD set. All tracks are full length versions, so very please about that. Have been reminiscing my way back to the 80's, remembering when I attended Maze gig at Hammersmith Apollo (great times). One of the best R&B bands ever to have graced this earth. If you're a fan, this is a must-buy. Definitely recommended.

This was bought for my husband who loved Maze back in the day...brought back lots of memories. Twilight and Back In Stride are my absolute faves, but the whole album is brilliant.. real soul music at its best.

Joyous compilation to be played anytime anywhere!Uplifting!London Hammersmith concert unforgettable.Unsurpassed instrumentation plus THE VOICE-FRANKIE!Missing CALL ON ME

Watched Maze live in the late 70's, the album is a great selection of songs & tracks produced by a great band, the music has aged well and is still easy listening.

Fantastic maze!!Love it!!Joy and pain! It sure is sunshine !Well worth the double cd pack!

All the best bits in one CD, replaces several vinyl and Tape versions

Frankie Beverley - masterful distinctive voice of Maze - First heard Maze through Robbie Vincent Radio London Soul back in the day as good now as it was then!!!!

Great album

Good quality excellent delivery service

Great listening, brought back memories.

Very good way to introduce yourself to the undeniable brilliance of Maze.Be prepared that once to start on this road you'll keep wanting to search out more gems.

This is one of my favourite CDs.

Frankie bev er ly! Bought this album specifically for one tune 'Before I let go' my all time favourite. What an intro!Twilight, Joy and Pain, Right on Time, Lady of magic, Funk at its best baby.