+'Justments

Released in 1974 during the absolute absolute peak of his creative powers, +'Justments is the criminally overlooked third studio album from soul icon Bill Withers. Arriving right after his landmark Still Bill and Live at Carnegie Hall releases, this album represents a turning point where Withers took full creative control, enlisting members of Charles Wright’s Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band to craft his absolute funkiest studio soundscape.

The record is a masterclass in rhythm and restraint. Backed by the tighter-than-tight rhythm section of bassist Melvin Dunlap and drummer James Gadson, Withers blends deep, mid-70s funk grooves with jazz-flecked instrumentation, featuring exquisite guest spots from José Feliciano on guitar and Dorothy Ashby on harp. The production trades the grand orchestration of contemporary Motown releases for an intimate, dust-caked bedroom-soul aesthetic.

Beyond the charting, melancholic lead single 'The Same Love That Made Me Laugh', the album is highly revered by hip-hop producers and crate-diggers alike for its incredible sample material. From the deep, driving basslines of 'You' and 'Railroad Man' to the sublime, two-stepping magic of 'Can We Pretend', this LP is an essential, highly rewarding piece of vinyl for any serious soul or funk purist.

Track Highlights: 'You', 'The Same Love That Made Me Laugh', 'Can We Pretend', 'Railroad Man'