Various- Philadelphia Classics-LP

• Format: LP
• Label: Philadelphia International Records, Philadelphia International Records, CBS Inc., CBS Inc., CBS Inc., Mighty Three Music, Assorted Music, Frankford/Wayne Mastering Labs
• Catalog number: PZG 34940
• Country: US

Philadelphia Classics gathers some of the defining sounds of the city’s vibrant soul scene, with production and arrangements by heavyweight names like Kenneth Gamble, Leon Huff, Bobby Martin, Thom Bell, and Norman Harris. This 1977 collection features tracks mixed by Tom Moulton, whose work helped shape the lush, dancefloor-ready sound of the era. Highlights like "Love Is The Message" and "TSOP" exemplify the smooth yet driving grooves that made Philadelphia soul distinct, while "I Love Music" and "Love Train" keep the energy flowing with their irresistible rhythms. This vinyl pressing from 1977 offers a solid chance to hear these classics as they were presented close to their original moment. The record grades to VG+, meaning it shows typical signs of use such as light surface marks and paper scuffs but should still provide a good listening experience without distracting noise. It’s a pressing that fits comfortably in any focused listening collection, and given the lineup of producers and arrangers, it’s a reminder that in Philadelphia’s music world, the classics came together as much in the studio as on the stage—proof that great teamwork can indeed be recorded. VAR.