Album Review: Walk On The Wild Side/OOO Baby Baby/Don’t Have To Shop Around/We Belong Together by Prime
Prime’s 1982 release, Walk On The Wild Side/OOO Baby Baby/Don’t Have To Shop Around/We Belong Together, is a hidden gem that blends Funk, Soul, and Rock with a touch of Doo Wop charm. Released under Clifton Records, this US-based album doesn’t scream for attention but instead sneaks up on you with its understated brilliance. It's the kind of record you’d stumble upon in a dusty bin at a thrift store and end up playing on repeat.
Let’s talk tracks. The standout for me has to be "OOO Baby Baby." It’s got that soulful vibe that feels like a warm hug on a cold day. The harmonies are tight—almost too tight, like they spent hours in a garage perfecting every note. And yet, it never feels forced. There’s a rawness to it, like the singers knew they were onto something special but didn’t overthink it. I remember this track because it’s one of those songs that sticks with you after just one listen. You find yourself humming it while waiting in line at the grocery store or zoning out during a boring meeting.
Another banger is "We Belong Together." This one leans more into the rock side of things, with gritty guitar riffs and a driving beat that makes you wanna tap your foot even if you’re sitting still. The vocals have this earnest energy, like the singer really means every word. It’s not overly polished, which works in its favor. Sometimes imperfections make a song feel more human, ya know? That little crack in the voice here, the slightly off-kilter harmony there—it all adds up to something real.
Now, let’s not forget the title track, "Walk On The Wild Side." While it doesn’t reinvent the wheel, it brings enough swagger to keep things interesting. The bassline grooves hard, and the whole thing has this laid-back confidence that’s hard not to admire. As for "Don’t Have To Shop Around," it’s a fun little number with a playful edge, though it doesn’t quite hit the same heights as the other tracks.
What strikes me most about this album is how unpretentious it feels. Prime wasn’t trying to change the world; they were just making music that felt good to them. And honestly, isn’t that what music should be about? It’s refreshing in an era where everything seems so calculated and market-driven.
Final thought: If you’re a fan of soulful vibes with a dash of rock ‘n’ roll grit, this album deserves a spot in your collection. Just don’t be surprised if you catch yourself randomly belting out “OOO Baby Baby” in the shower. Oh, and here’s the kicker—I kinda wish they’d thrown in a wild card track, maybe something experimental or totally left-field. Would’ve made this already-cool album unforgettable. Still, as is, it’s a solid ride. Check it out.
