What makes Soul on the Rocks by The Isley Brothers notable?

This album is notable for its fusion of classic R&B with emerging soul elements, reflecting the changing landscape of popular music at the time. It features the hit single 'That’s the Way Love Is', which received significant radio play and contributed to the band's continued success in an era dominated by Motown artists. By 1967, The Isley Brothers were transitioning from their earlier doo-wop influences into a more mature soul sound. 'Soul on the Rocks' marks their first album after signing with Motown, showcasing their evolving artistry and a departure from their earlier hits that defined the 1960s.

Who is Soul on the Rocks for?

Soul on the Rocks works well if you're into steady groove for relaxed moments, short tracks for quick enjoyment and soulful melodies that uplift spirits.

How many songs are on Soul on the Rocks?

Soul on the Rocks has 12 tracks, running approximately 31 minutes.

Soul on the Rocks

The Isley Brothers · 1967

31 min · 12 tracks · rhythm and blues

Soulful melodies intertwine with heartfelt lyrics, capturing the essence of love’s complexities in vibrant arrangements.

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Top tracks — play these first

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That’s the Way Love Is — This track exemplifies the album's emotional depth with its poignant lyrics about love's trials, underscored by smooth harmonies that highlight the group's vocal prowess.
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Behind a Painted Smile — The song stands out for its narrative of hidden emotions, presenting a contrast between upbeat instrumentation and introspective lyrics that reveal deeper struggles.
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Whispers (Gettin’ Louder) — With its infectious groove and catchy chorus, this track showcases The Isleys' ability to blend rhythm and melody while addressing themes of longing and desire.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting and production, reflecting the Isley Brothers' transition into a more mature sound.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of lush string arrangements that complement the vocal harmonies throughout its tracks.
Several songs employ call-and-response techniques, enhancing the interaction between lead vocals and backing harmonies.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

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 groove for relaxed moments
short tracks for quick enjoyment
soulful melodies that uplift spirits
consistent flow for easy listening

Maybe skip if you

prefer lengthy, complex compositions
seek high-energy dance tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — First album after signing with Motown, showcasing a shift to a mature soul sound.
Career context: By 1967, The Isley Brothers were transitioning from their earlier doo-wop influences into a more mature soul sound. 'Soul on the Rocks' marks their first album after signing with Motown, showcasing their evolving artistry and a departure from their earlier hits that defined the 1960s.
Stylistic neighbors: Earth, Wind & Fire· The Temptations· Marvin Gaye