EARTH WIND & FIRE - That's The Way Of The World [180-Gram Black Vinyl] [Import]

(180 Gram Vinyl, Black, Holland - Import)

Earth, Wind & Fire – That’s the Way of the World (180-Gram Black Vinyl) [Import] (2021)
Album: Studio Album | Originally Released: 1975 | Reissue: 2021
Label: Music On Vinyl
Genre: R&B, Funk, Soul, Disco

Released by Music On Vinyl in 2021, this reissue of Earth, Wind & Fire's seminal 1975 album That’s the Way of the World is a high-quality pressing on 180-gram black vinyl, offering an audiophile-grade listening experience that captures the rich warmth and depth of the original recording. Music On Vinyl, known for its attention to detail and commitment to high-quality pressings, has ensured that this version delivers the smooth, dynamic sound Earth, Wind & Fire intended, while preserving the timeless vibe of the classic album.

That’s the Way of the World is widely regarded as one of the band’s most influential works, blending funk, disco, soul, and rock with intricate arrangements, smooth vocals, and sophisticated orchestration. The album features some of Earth, Wind & Fire’s most memorable tracks, including the iconic hits "Shining Star" and "That’s the Way of the World," both of which have remained staples in the band’s catalog for decades.

The 2021 Music On Vinyl reissue not only brings the album to new listeners but enhances the listening experience for collectors and audiophiles, preserving the sound quality of the original release and providing the album in an elegant, premium format.

Track Listing:

Side A:

1. "Shining Star"
2. "That's the Way of the World"
3. "Happy Feelin'"
4. "All About Love"

Side B:

1. "Yearnin' Learnin'"
2. "Reasons"
3. "Interlude"
4. "Devotion"

Album Highlights:

• "Shining Star"
  Perhaps the most recognizable track from That’s the Way of the World, "Shining Star" is an upbeat anthem that blends funk grooves, horns, and catchy vocals into a song that remains a dancefloor favorite. Its infectious energy and uplifting message earned Earth, Wind & Fire their first Grammy Award, and it remains a landmark song in their career.

• "That's the Way of the World"
  The title track is a smooth, introspective ballad with lush strings and a reflective quality. The powerful lyrics about life, love, and unity resonate deeply, and the production—with its intricate arrangements—showcases the band’s skill in merging soul and orchestral elements.

• "Reasons"
  A fan favorite and one of the band's most emotionally charged tracks, "Reasons" is a heartfelt ballad that blends lush instrumentation with Maurice White’s soulful vocals. The song builds steadily, allowing the listener to be swept up in its emotional resonance.

• "Happy Feelin'"
  With a more upbeat, danceable vibe, "Happy Feelin'" features tight rhythm guitar and horns, creating a lively atmosphere. The song captures the optimism of the 70s and remains a feel-good anthem in Earth, Wind & Fire's catalog.

Sound and Production:

The 180-gram vinyl pressing by Music On Vinyl offers superior sound quality, emphasizing the richness and depth of the original recordings. The analog warmth of the vinyl brings out the full spectrum of Earth, Wind & Fire's arrangements, from the intricate horn sections to the smooth, soulful vocals. The mastering has been done with great care, allowing for a more dynamic listening experience that highlights the album’s orchestral elements, rhythmic grooves, and detailed production.

The vinyl presentation is also designed with audiophiles in mind, providing a more immersive listening experience than digital versions, and offering crystal-clear highs and warm, full-bodied lows. The smooth, weighty pressing ensures minimal surface noise, allowing listeners to enjoy the album's full sonic range.

Critical Reception:

Upon its original release in 1975, That’s the Way of the World was both a commercial success and a critical triumph. The album topped the Billboard 200, achieved multi-platinum status, and was hailed for its innovative blend of soul, disco, and funk, with orchestral arrangements that set Earth, Wind & Fire apart from other acts in the genre. Critics praised its musical complexity, the band's versatility, and the way they seamlessly merged various genres to create something uniquely their own.

The 2021 Music On Vinyl reissue has received praise for its faithful reproduction of the album’s original sound, with fans and critics alike appreciating the clarity and depth of the vinyl pressing. The album’s enduring appeal, coupled with the superior sound quality of the 180-gram vinyl release, has made this reissue a must-have for both longtime fans and collectors.

Conclusion:

The 2021 Music On Vinyl reissue of That’s the Way of the World is a fantastic opportunity to experience this classic Earth, Wind & Fire album with enhanced sound quality and a premium presentation. The 180-gram black vinyl pressing allows the album to be appreciated in all its sonic glory, with each track sounding as fresh and vibrant as when it was first released.

For fans of soul, funk, and disco, this reissue offers the perfect way to rediscover the band’s iconic 1975 album. That’s the Way of the World remains a cornerstone of Earth, Wind & Fire’s legacy and a definitive statement in the history of R&B. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the band or new to their sound, this vinyl edition is a treasure that will stand the test of time.