Talking Book

Talking Book is where Stevie Wonder put it all together. Throughout the 1960s, he'd written and performed some of the most vital soul music of the era. However, at the onset of the 1970s, he jettisoned the Motown machine for good. A few excellent, if less self-assured, releases such as Where I'm Coming From began the turnaround, but Talking Book teemed with the authority of a master. With the opening track, the now standard "You Are The Sunshine of My Life" and the attractive funk of "Superstition," Wonder proves he has much to say and a most interesting way of saying it. 'Wonder the Genius' is on full display, adding his unique lyrical and musical language to the electric keyboard madness of "You've Got It Bad Girl," the politically critical "Big Brother" and the terrifically catchy closer, "I Believe (When I Fall In Love It Will Be Forever)." Ray Parker, Jr., Jeff Beck and Buzzy Feton add a few guitar solos, while Wonder handles most of the instruments himself. Essential.