Essential

The Isley Brothers: Chris Jasper (vocals, piano, Clavinet, ARP synthesizer, percussion); Ronald Isley (vocals); Ernie Isley (acoustic 6-string guitar, electric guitar, bass instrument, drums, percussion, background vocals); Marvin Isley (bass instrument, percussion, background vocals); O'Kelly Isley, Rudolph Isley (background vocals).
Additional personnel: Jimi Hendrix (guitar); Funk Brothers.
Producers: Bert Berns; Hugo Peretti; R. Kelly; Angela Winbush
Compilation Producer: Leo Sacks.
Liner Note Author: Rashod D. Ollison.
Recording information: 1959 - 1996.
The Isley Brothers are one of the most important groups in R&B history. They modernized the concept of the black singing group, and broke new ground with hits that were either influenced by or borrowed from a variety of musical styles. In addition to performing many of their own songs, the Isleys perform soulful renditions of Seals & Crofts's "Summer Breeze" and Stephen Stills's "Love the One You're With" on this ESSENTIAL collection.
The two-disc set presents the original 1962 version of "Twist and Shout" and other latter-day Isley favorites such as the funky "It's Your Thing" and the bold "Fight the Power." Another highlight of this compilation is "Move Over and Let Me Dance," featuring a rare guest appearance by Jimi Hendrix. Boasting 34 tracks that span from '59 to '96, THE ESSENTIAL ISLEY BROTHERS is an excellent introduction to this inimitable band.