There's something magical about finding a piece of music that defies time, speaking both to its era and to generations that follow. Such is the case with "Another Side," the groundbreaking album by Fingers Inc., released in 1988. This seminal work introduced the world to a new voice in the house music genre, crafted by the talented duo Larry Heard and Robert Owens. The album emerged from the thriving music scene in Chicago, a city that was emerging as the cradle of house music, forever changing the sound of the dance floor.
"Another Side" wasn't just another house album; it was a storytelling masterpiece. At the heart of its innovation was Larry Heard, a man who wore many hats as a producer, composer, and DJ. Combined with the soulful, emotive vocals of Robert Owens, the album forged an emotional connection that few records of the time achieved. Their collaboration was a confluence of creativity, resulting in a work that could make you move your feet while also pondering life's complexities.
The creation of "Another Side" occurred in a period of cultural experimentation and fervent musical exploration. The late 1980s were tumultuous and transformative, with conservatism clashing against progressive ideologies, much like today in many respects. Fingers Inc.'s sound was part of a larger movement that was pushing boundaries, hoping for a world that resonated with harmony, diversity, and unity. Within that context, "Another Side" was speaking directly to those seeking escapism, joy, and, perhaps most importantly, a connection to others amidst society's upheaval.
A notable track, "Can You Feel It," blends a deep, enchanting bassline with Owens' stirring voice, inviting listeners to a space where emotions are raw and unfiltered. It's as though Fingers Inc. was reaching out to listeners, daring them to feel and not just listen. The song's influence stretched far beyond the dance music scene, and its call for empathy and unity remains relevant even today. Many Gen Zs may not have experienced it firsthand upon release but have likely encountered its spirit in today's music.
The album is layered with varied themes, a tapestry woven with threads of love, longing, and resilience. Tracks like “Mystery of Love” and “A Path” navigate the complexity of human relationships, encapsulating the desire for solace and understanding. It's in these messages that Fingers Inc. transcended being mere entertainers; they became something more akin to poets with beats, carving out a space for introspection amid the ecstatic groove of house.
Yet, what Fingers Inc. achieved wasn't without its challenges. The environment they were creating in was a tapestry of diverse, sometimes conflicting influences: jazz, soul, funk—all bubbling beneath the surface of Chicago's pulsating urban landscape. In a sense, "Another Side" served as an aural mosaic, pieced together from different cultural expressions, all coexisting harmoniously within its tracks.
Some critics argue that the simplicity of the lyrics compared to the infectious beats and rhythms might obscure the lyrical depth that the duo intended. There's a point to be made there, as house music traditionally prioritizes rhythm. However, it’s worth noting that house music gives listeners freedom. The absence of cluttered narratives allows listeners to find their story within the music, and perhaps this abstract simplicity is what allows "Another Side" to endure.
Today, the legacy of "Another Side" can be seen in myriad places. From festivals dedicating space for house music to artists sampling and reinventing its tracks, the album's influence remains palpable. Fingers Inc. might not have garnered commercial accolades at the time, but they laid the groundwork for the genre’s future trajectory, influencing modern music creation significantly.
For Gen Z, who are inherently digital, discovering "Another Side" might seem like unearthing a relic. Nevertheless, it’s a vital musical artifact, one that ignites a sense of belonging to something grander—a shared musical heritage that spans decades. Whether you're tuning into a vinyl record or streaming an online playlist, the album’s heartbeat continues to sync with our times. It speaks to a universal yearning for connection, to see another side of life through the empathetic lens of sound.
Learning about "Another Side" encourages us to reflect on our own cultural narratives. It opens doors to understanding the diverse, interconnected path that music history offers, urging us to appreciate both its innovative depths and the broader, inclusive community it strives to foster.