Natural Resources
Martha and the Vandellas · 1970
34 min · 12 tracks · rhythm and blues
A vibrant blend of soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics that encapsulates the essence of early 70s rhythm and blues.
Top tracks — play these first
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People Got to Be Free — This track stands out for its anthemic quality, directly addressing themes of liberation and social justice that were prevalent during the time. Its infectious chorus makes it a rallying call for change.
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I Should Be Proud — The song poignantly reflects on personal pride amidst societal challenges, showcasing the group's ability to blend emotion with powerful vocal performances. It encapsulates a sense of resilience in uncertain times.
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Hurt Is Over (Since I’ve Found You) — This track highlights the group's signature harmonies with a narrative of overcoming heartache, offering a deeply personal touch that resonates through its melodic structure.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases solid songwriting and performance but lacks standout tracks that elevate it beyond its era.
What we noticed
- Several tracks feature call-and-response vocals, enhancing the communal feel typical of rhythm and blues.
- The last three tracks slow down the tempo significantly, creating a reflective atmosphere as the album concludes.
- Composition 25% of the score
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6/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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5/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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5/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady mid-tempo groove
- uplifting melodies for positivity
- soulful reflections on love
- short tracks for quick enjoyment
- sing-along moments with friends
Maybe skip if you
- prefer slow, soundscapes
- seek lengthy, complex compositions
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released on September 8, 1970, 'Natural Resources' marked Martha and the Vandellas' transition into the new decade as their fifth studio album. By this time, the group was navigating a changing music landscape after their initial successes in the 1960s, showcasing a maturing sound while aiming to maintain relevance amidst changing musical trends.
- Stylistic neighbors
- The Supremes· The Shirelles· The Ronettes
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Something 2:52
- 2 Easily Persuaded 2:49
- 3 Didn’t We 2:45
- 4 I’m in Love 3:18
- 5 Love, Guess Who 3:11
- 6 Everybody’s Talking 2:55
- 7 Put a Little Love in Your Heart 2:32
- 8 Hurt Is Over (Since I’ve Found You) 3:02
- 9 Take a Look Around 2:20
- 10 Won’t It Be So Wonderful? 2:35
- 11 I Should Be Proud 3:01
- 12 People Got to Be Free 2:40
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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