Family Affair

Family Affair, a short, nine-song CD contains a few of Sister Sledges biggest hits, some minor cuts, and four tracks not readily available on other compilations. The lyrics, vocals and rhythm makes Hes the Greatest Dancer a treat every time it plays. Nile Rodgers flat out jams on rhythm guitar, an underrated and overlooked instrument. One of the Top Ten singalong songs of all time, We Are Family, starts like a fast floater but turns into a bass-driven, keyboard spiced vamp for Kathy Sledge to emote on. The lilting Lost in Music, led by Joni Sledge, is classy disco with understated elegance and substance. The most unusual song here has to be the reggae-influenced Frankie, where Sister Sledges harmonies shine. Brother, Brother Stop is a powerful social commentary piece with a killer hook, while Love of the Lord displays their spiritual roots. The treat here is a direct, soulful version of Chics Everybody Dance, which could have been a hit for them too. ~ Andrew Hamilton