The Essential Collection

Maze have often been put down as black MOR, but this collection showcases the diversity of their catalogue. Back in the 1980s I was into the more edgy and experimental side of P-Funk, Sly Stone, JB and jazz rock, so led by reading reviews I filed Maze under bland quiet storm tag (not my thing).Maybe things sound different now I'm middle aged, but there are bridges from more challenging black music to Maze. Marvin Gaye chose Maze as a band who could continue his style, and they do with a coasting groove and yearning melodies. I also see some affinities with Earth, Wind and Fire as well as Pat Metheney. Colour Blind has a clear pedigree from Sly Stone / Larry Graham funk, while Southern Girl has a touch of Ohio Players. Look at California is a 3 section suite that switches from gospel to a mellow 60s vibe and then into a Santana style faster tempo Latin jazz excursion. The band are excellent, especially the guitarist who gets to play some tasteful solos.There are a few gloopy ballads that I skip, but only 30% of the tracks.These are more than compensated for by the sublime, gently simmering mid tempo grooves such as Joy and Pain. These really establish the essence of Maze, songs of perseverence and redemption that capture the reality (rather than fantasy) of dealing with relationships.

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!

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.

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.

Good quality excellent delivery service

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.

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.

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.