Original Invictus Recordings from 1972-1974
Sanctuary Records Group Ltd.
A Sequel Production
Fold out insert with an introductory note by Brian Holland and further notes by Lewis Dene
ReviewThis is an anthology of recordings made by legendary former Motown songwriters/producers Holland, Dozier, Holland (brothers Brian and Eddie Holland plus Lamont Dozier). It is essentially an expanded re-issue of a compilation issued by Deep Beats in 1997 (Cat #DEEPF 003) and uses much of the same artwork and insert/booklet notes.
It contains tracks from 1972-1974 that were recorded for their own Invictus record label. The original Invictus releases had artist credits that were variously "Holland-Dozier", "Holland Dozier featuring Lamont Dozier", "Holland-Dozier featuring Brian Holland" or "Brian Holland".
The title track is their unlikely 1972 UK Top 30 chart entrant "Why Can't We Be Lovers", the biggest US hit on here is "Don't Leave Me Starving For Your Love", a #52 BB Hot-100 hit early in 1973.
Musically the tracks are similar to those made by other Invictus artists such as The Chairmen of The Board or The Barrino Brothers, which is hardly surprising as Holland-Dozier-Holland were involved in producing those acts. Expect plenty of thumpy tunes with memorable hooklines and sophisticated arrangements.
One of my favourites on here is "I'm So Glad" (a Brian Holland solo effort) which the Holland brothers later re-recorded on Junior Walker.