Human Nature - The Motown Record

Text: Sherman Yang

Without any instruments to cover up any possible vocal flaws, Human Nature pulls off two stunning a cappella tracks ‘Ooo Baby Baby’ and ‘Just My Imagination (Running Away With Me)’ with just their voices. The doo-wop take on these classic Motown songs has stunning vocal harmonisations and are great renditions of the songs.

‘Get Ready’ was written by Motown legend Smokey Robinson and originally recorded by the Temptations. Robinson lends his voice this time, but overshadows Human Nature in this track which is given a slightly more pop treatment.

While Human Nature manages to put their own spins and harmonies into the songs, it is very difficult to outdo original versions of classics such as ‘Stop In The Name Of Love’ by the Supremes, the Temptations’ ‘My Girl’ and ‘Ain’t No Mountain High Enough’, which has been covered by many notable artists over the years.

On the whole, it is difficult to point out a bad track in the 12-track The Motown Record. Human Nature’s perfect harmonisations prove that the quartet is vocally talented. Unfortunately, the group has very big shoes to fill, since the original songs are mostly huge hits that would undoubtedly be cause for comparison.

Recommended tracks: ‘Ooo Baby Baby’, ‘Just My Imagination (Running Away With Me)’, ‘Get Ready’