Released 50 years ago
Some People Can Do What They Like
Robert Palmer · 1976
38 min · 10 tracks · rock music
A vibrant fusion of rock, funk, and pop that showcases Palmer's dynamic vocals and eclectic musical influences.
Top tracks — play these first
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One Last Look Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Spanish Moon — This track stands out with its infectious groove and lyrical depth, capturing the essence of Palmer's ability to merge storytelling with rhythm.
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Man Smart, Woman Smarter — A clever reinterpretation of a traditional calypso song, this track showcases Palmer’s playful vocal delivery and highlights his knack for blending genres.
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Keep in Touch — The upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make this song a memorable highlight, reflecting Palmer's skill in crafting radio-friendly hits.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases a blend of rock and funk with dynamic vocals but lacks strong cohesion across its tracks.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a mid-tempo track that features layered instrumentation, gradually introducing funk elements by the third song.
- Several tracks incorporate call-and-response vocal patterns, particularly in 'Man Smart, Woman Smarter', enhancing the rhythmic drive.
- The final track, 'Some People Can Do What They Like', serves as a climactic finish, featuring a prominent brass section that contrasts with earlier songs.
- 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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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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5/10
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
- short, engaging listening sessions
- upbeat and rhythmic vibes
- playful, lively energy
- varied emotional expressions
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — This album helped establish Palmer's unique sound and transition to a solo career.
- Career context
- When Robert Palmer released Some People Can Do What They Like in 1976, he was transitioning from his earlier work with the band Vinegar Joe towards a more solo-focused career. This album followed his self-titled debut and marked an exploration of diverse genres, setting the stage for his future hits in the late '70s and '80s.
- Stylistic neighbors
- David Bowie· Duran Duran· Steely Dan
Tracklist
- 1 One Last Look Start here 4:23
- 2 Keep in Touch 3:07
- 3 Man Smart, Woman Smarter 2:36
- 4 Spanish Moon 6:02
- 5 Have Mercy 3:53
- 6 Gotta Get a Grip on You 4:01
- 7 What Can You Bring Me 3:45
- 8 Hard Head 4:29
- 9 Off the Bone 2:20
- 10 Some People Can Do What They Like 4:09
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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