Album Info
| Artist: | Marvin Gaye |
| Album: | In Our Lifetime |
| Released: | Europe, 27 May 2016 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Praise | |
| A2 | Life Is For Learning | |
| A3 | Love Party | |
| A4 | Funk Me | |
| B1 | Far Cry | |
| Arranged By - Frank Blair | ||
| B2 | Love Me Now Or Leave Me Later | |
| B3 | Heavy Love Affair | |
| B4 | In Our Lifetime |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne, Australia (North of Northcote, between Thornbury & Reservoir)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
- Free Shipping for orders $150 and over.
- You can also pick up your order in store, just select Local Pickup at the checkout.
- We also ship internationally - prices vary depending on weight and location.
- We ship vinyls in thick, rigid carboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- In stock vinyl is usally shipped next business day, please check the availability field at the top of the product page to see whether the record is currently in stock or if it is available from the supplier as well as estimated shipping times.
- If you order an in stock item together with a pre order or back order (listed as available from supplier rather than in stock) then the order will be shipped together when all items arrive. If you would like the in stock items shipped first please place two separate orders or contact us to arrange shipping items separately.
- We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn't arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record.
- If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store.
- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Description
Marvin Gaye's "In Our Lifetime" is a compelling and complex album that showcases the artist's profound ability to blend personal introspection with broader social commentary. Released on January 15, 1981, by Tamla Records, a subsidiary of Motown, this album stands as Gaye's final project with the iconic label before his departure to Columbia Records.
The creation of "In Our Lifetime" was fraught with challenges, reflecting the turbulent period in Gaye's life. The album was recorded between 1979 and 1981, a time marked by Gaye's struggles with substance abuse, financial difficulties, and a tumultuous personal life. Despite these hardships, Gaye managed to produce an album that is both innovative and deeply reflective.
Musically, "In Our Lifetime" is a rich tapestry of funk, soul, and jazz influences, with Gaye's signature smooth vocals weaving through complex arrangements. The album opens with "Praise," a track that immediately sets a spiritual and introspective tone. The song's upbeat tempo and celebratory lyrics are juxtaposed with Gaye's contemplative delivery, creating a sense of searching and yearning.
One of the standout tracks on the album is "Love Party," which features a funky groove and showcases Gaye's ability to craft infectious melodies. The song's lyrics, which explore themes of love and connection, are delivered with a sense of urgency and passion that is quintessentially Marvin Gaye.
"Life Is for Learning" is another highlight, with its introspective lyrics and intricate production. The song delves into Gaye's personal philosophy and his quest for understanding and meaning in life. The track's layered instrumentation and Gaye's emotive vocal performance make it a poignant and thought-provoking piece.
The title track, "In Our Lifetime," is perhaps the most reflective song on the album. It addresses themes of mortality, legacy, and the passage of time. Gaye's lyrics are both personal and universal, touching on his own experiences while also speaking to broader human concerns. The song's haunting melody and somber tone underscore the weight of its subject matter.
One of the most interesting aspects of "In Our Lifetime" is its production history. Gaye originally intended the album to be a double LP titled "Love Man," but Motown decided to release it as a single album without his final approval. This decision led to a rift between Gaye and the label, as he felt the album was incomplete and not representative of his artistic vision. Despite this, "In Our Lifetime" remains a powerful and cohesive work that captures Gaye's creative genius.
The album's cover art, which features a painting of Gaye as a superhero-like figure, adds another layer of intrigue. The artwork, created by artist Neil Breeden, reflects Gaye's self-perception and his desire to be seen as a larger-than-life figure. It also hints at the album's themes of personal struggle and triumph.
"In Our Lifetime" received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics praising its ambition and depth, while others felt it was uneven and lacked the polish of Gaye's earlier works. However, over time, the album has come to be appreciated for its raw honesty and its exploration of complex themes.
In conclusion, Marvin Gaye's "In Our Lifetime" is a deeply personal and introspective album that captures the artist at a pivotal moment in his life. Its blend of funk, soul, and jazz, combined with Gaye's emotive vocals and thought-provoking lyrics, make it a standout work in his discography. Despite the challenges surrounding its production, the album remains a testament to Gaye's enduring talent and his ability to create music that resonates on both a personal and universal level.
