JDIZZY's 365 # 62: Ball Of Confusion ( That's What The World Is Today)

Ball Of Confusion (That's What The World Is Today) - The Temptations (1970)

Psychedelic Soul, for lack of a better word, is a cool genre. For a brief period of time, no one did it better than Motown's Beatles, The Temps. Following up the success of the "Psychedelic Shack" single, They hit a career high in a career made out of nothing but high spots with this caustic tale of the state of the world. Not since Dylan's "Masters Of War" had protest been so raw, visceral and powerful. However, Dylan wasn't afforded the studio mastery that Motown had at its disposal at the beginning of the decade. The strings, horns, rhythm section and vocals seem to be at war themselves, fighting together in a cacophony of perfected sound. And Melvin Franklin's delivery of "...and the band played on.."? Chills, I tell ya, chills! The Temptations would hit on this style for one more master class moment. However, no matter how short-lived the sound was, its influence has inspired some incredible modern soul and hip-hop. Put on some headphones that fit over your ears and get inspired yourself.



Tina Turner got her "comeback" deal with Capital in the 80's because of this cover. I told ya this song was special!