Mon. Sep 16th, 2024

Reissue Review: The Supremes – “I Hear A Symphony”

  1. Stranger In Paradise
  2. Yesterday
  3. I Hear A Symphony
  4. Unchained Melody
  5. With A Song In My Heart
  6. Without a Song
  7. My World Is Empty Without You
  8. A Lover’s Concerto
  9. Any Girl In Love (Knows What I’m Going Through)
  10. Wonderful, Wonderful
  11. Everything Is Good About You
  12. He’s All I Got

The Supremes’ “I Hear A Symphony” is a classic 1965 album by one of Motown’s most iconic girl groups. Known for its blend of pop, soul, and R&B, the album features hits like the title track “I Hear A Symphony” and “My World Is Empty Without You.” This reissue on green 140-gram vinyl offers both a nod to vintage aesthetics and a modern touch for audiophiles.

Packaging and Presentation

The album cover for this reissue retains the original artwork, featuring the original photograph of The Supremes.

The 140-gram vinyl is a good choice for durability and sound quality. While it’s slightly lighter than the standard 180-gram vinyl, it still offers a robust and reliable surface that minimizes warping and provides a smooth playback experience. The green color adds a visually appealing element without compromising the audio quality.

Sound Quality

The pressing quality of this reissue is commendable. The sound is clear and well-balanced, with the highs and mids prominently featured, which is crucial for appreciating the intricate vocal arrangements and orchestral backing of The Supremes’ music. The low end is solid but not overpowering, maintaining the classic Motown sound without overwhelming the other elements of the mix.

Given that it’s a reissue, the pressing quality is crucial. This green vinyl offers minimal surface noise and a well-defined soundstage. The quiet background ensures that the dynamic range of the music is preserved, allowing listeners to enjoy the subtle nuances of the tracks.

Track Highlights

“I Hear A Symphony”: The title track is a showcase of The Supremes’ vocal harmony and the lush orchestration characteristic of Motown. The reissue allows the string arrangements to shine, making this classic sound as vibrant as ever.

“My World Is Empty Without You”: This track features a rich arrangement and emotional vocal delivery. The reissue captures the depth and resonance of Diana Ross’s voice, highlighting the track’s melancholic beauty.

“Everything Is Good About You”: A slightly more upbeat number, it demonstrates The Supremes’ versatility and the lush production typical of Motown. The clarity of the reissue ensures that every instrument is distinct and well-defined.

“Unchained Melody”: Known for its timeless appeal, “Unchained Melody” allows The Supremes to showcase their emotional range and vocal strength. The reissue provides a beautifully clear and immersive listening experience, with the lush orchestration and Diana Ross’s poignant delivery creating a memorable performance.

Conclusion

The Supremes’ green 140-gram vinyl reissue of “I Hear A Symphony” is a worthy addition to any vinyl collection. It successfully marries nostalgic appeal with modern audio fidelity, offering both visual and auditory pleasures. For fans of The Supremes or collectors of Motown records, this reissue provides an opportunity to experience a classic album in a fresh and stylish format. The attention to detail in the pressing quality and the unique green vinyl make this reissue a standout choice for both casual listeners and dedicated audiophiles.