Arnold, Calvin: Funky Way - Venture Recordings 1967-1969 (Vinyl LP)

This is the first album of Mickey Stevenson’s Venture material. Funky Way was the label’s first release and a hit in 1967, despite limited airplay due to having the word “funky” in the title. It went on to become an early funk classic, covered by Rufus Thomas for Stax, Tommy Strand for Fame, Jimmy Bee for Kent, Ray Johnson and others.

Though mainly recorded in Los Angeles, Calvin Arnold was a southern soul singer from Atlanta, Georgia and the material is in that vein – there are Mighty Hannibal produced tracks, recorded in Atlanta. Apart from the eight released sides, Mickey Stevenson’s tapes have provided five previously unreleased numbers including the up-tempo mover ‘Your Love Is Too Much’ and the superb southern funk grooves of ‘Trying To Fly My Kite (In Rainy Weather)’ and ‘Fool Me Baby’.

The package features never before seen photos and a 5,000-word biography of the revered singer from Atlanta musicologist Brian Poust.

1. Funky Way
   
2. Tryin' To Fly My Kite [In Rainy Weather]
   
3. Snatchin' Back
   
4. Your Love Is Too Much
   
5. You Got To Live For Yourself
   
6. Messin' With The Old Folks Home
   
7. Mama-In-Law
   
8. Lovely Way To Go
   
9. Fool Me Baby
   
10. Scoobie Doo
    
11. Mini Skirt
    
12. Mo Jo Hannah
    
13. Just A Matter Of Time