GO FOR YOUR GUNS

Also available in a 3-pack with THE HEAT IS ON and BETWEEN THE SHEETS. The Isley Brothers: Ronald Isley, Kelly Isley, Rudolph Isley (vocals); Ernie Isley (guitar); Chris Jasper (keyboards); Marvin Isley (bass). Personnel: Ernie Isley (guitar, drums); Chris Jasper (keyboards); Marvin Isley (bass guitar); Everett Collins (congas). On 1977's GO FOR YOUR GUNS the Isley Brothers can be heard modifying their sound yet again to suit the times. The group's usual wild-card eclecticism is streamlined here, through their previous incarnations as smooth soulsters, purveyors of guitar-based psychedelia, and edgy funk-rockers can be heard on "Footsteps in the Dark," "Voyage to Atlantis," and "Livin' in the Life," respectively. What marks GO FOR YOUR GUNS is the unified sound and clean production of the album, which brings the band's diverse styles under one aesthetic umbrella. The opening cut, "The Pride," has a steady, four-on-the-floor beat with a bit of disco-funk sheen, and sets the tone for the album. Thumping, popping bass and tight, rhythmic grooves are at the forefront here, but the Isleys still surprise, especially with secret weapon Ernie Isley on board throwing out blistering, Hendrix-inspired guitar leads (as on "Climbin' Up the Ladder" and the driving instrumental title track). As always, there is plenty of soulful singing to be found; the Isleys' vocal style has lost none of its luster here. This is a fine album of classic late-'70s funk from one of music's most talented, enduring families.