You're So Fine - The Best of Joe Stubbs

Ian Levine does a credible job producing Joe Stubbs', Levi's (Four Tops) younger brother, who enjoyed a panoramic career. First hitting with the Falcons' "You're So Fine," solo efforts on Lupine Records, then hooking up with the Originals "Need Your Lovin' Want You Back," and the Contours' "Just a Little Misunderstanding"; both records came out the same year, 1966. Motowns' producers loved Stubbs' vibrant, spirited tenor. Like the late, Little Willie John, Stubbs sung above his natural register creating a sense of urgency in everything he recorded. After Motown he scored his biggest hit "Somebody's Been Sleeping" with 100 Proof Aged In Soul for Holland, Dozier, Holland's (HDH) Hotwax label. Listening to Joe sing Chairmen of the Board's "Give Me Just a Little More Time," makes you wonder whether HDH has an unreleased version by Joe in the vault. He sparkles on the upbeat romper as he does on the new "Somebody's Been Sleeping," and two tunes popularized by his big brother "Standing in the Shadows of Love," and "Baby I Need Your Lovin'." The productions lack the crispness of Motown or Hotwax/Invictus sessions but Stubbs rises above the mediocrity. A few raindrops: If you're familiar with his epic rendition of "Ain't That Lovin' You" with 100 Proof you won't enjoy this one, and "Just a Little Misunderstanding" is less frantic than the original. A single "Destination Unknown" went unnoticed. While pricey, it's still a good buy for those who like grit(s) with their soul.