Freedom Means....

An impressive offering from the revered Dells, showcasing their collaboration with the esteemed arranger Charles Stepney and songwriter Terry Callier. This record marks a significant evolution from their early days harmonizing on street corners. The vocals are outstanding, exemplifying the Dells’ remarkable blend of deep tones and soaring highs that set them apart as one of the finest soul groups of the 1970s. Stepney’s arrangements, reminiscent of his work with Dionne Warwick and others, add sophisticated yet soulful layers to the music, creating a sound unmatched by any other. Terry Callier’s original compositions further elevate the album, with standout tracks including “The Love We Had Stays On My Mind”, “Freedom Means”, and “Rather Be With You”.

Formed in high school in 1953 under the name the El-Rays, The Dells emerged as an American R&B vocal group. Their journey began with founding members Marvin Junior, Verne Allison, Johnny Funches, Chuck Barksdale, and Michael and Lucius McGill. By 1954, they released their inaugural recording, followed by their first R&B hit, “Oh What a Night”, in 1956. A near-fatal car accident led to their disbandment in 1958, but they regrouped in 1960, with Johnny Carter replacing Funches. This lineup persisted until Carter’s passing in 2009. Honored with inductions into both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2004, The Dells continued to perform until illness compelled lead singer Marvin Junior and bass vocalist Chuck Barksdale to retire, concluding the group’s remarkable 60-year journey.