Level 42 - The Early Tapes · July/Aug 1980

Genre:

Electronic, Funk / Soul, Jazz

Style:

Jazz-Funk, Synth-pop, Disco

Year:

1980

Tracklist

Sandstorm
Love Meeting Love
Theme To Margaret
Autumn (Paradise Is Free)
Wings Of Love
Woman
Mr. Pink
88

Versions

Title, Format	Label	Cat#	Country	Year
The Early Tapes · July/Aug 1980 (LP, Album)	Polydor	SPELP 28	UK	1980
The Early Tapes (July/August 1980) (Cass, Album)	Polydor	3170 637	France	1980
The Early Tapes · July/Aug 1980 (LP, Album)	Polydor	2383 637	Germany	1980
The Early Tapes · July/Aug 1980 (LP, Album)	Polydor	POLS 1064	UK	1980
The Early Tapes (LP, Album)	Polydor	28MM 0244	Japan	1980
The Early Tapes · July / Aug 1980 (LP, Album)	Polydor	2383 637	Netherlands	1982
The Early Tapes · July/Aug 1980 (CD, Album)	Polydor	831 081-2	Europe	1991
The Early Tapes · July/Aug 1980 (CD, Album, RM, RE)	Polydor	9843572	Europe	2007

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Reviews & Discussion

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Rated 4/5

Review by darkwaves Jul 24, 2008

referencing The Early Tapes · July/Aug 1980, CD, Album, 831 081-2

What this album may lack (slightly) in production polish more in evidence as the band matured, it makes up in a 'live' energy rare in studio recordings. A mix of instrumentals and songs, there are quite funky moments, some jazzy flavors, and not a little pop sensibility with a bit of a new wave vibe. A couple of spots are reminiscent of perhaps Spandau Ballet's funkier moments, albeit more articulate and syncopated. Love Meeting Love, a longer version than on "On A Level" compilation, is a standout laid-back groovy ballad, and I normally detest ballads! The songwriting is very good, and the arrangements still sound fresh.

I was quite glad when this reissue came out, as the LP had been a favorite: Level 42 stripped down to raw essentials.