Underdog

Opening with some horn fanfare from "Frere Jacques," the opening track to Sly & the Family Stone's debut album showcases the band's eclecticism and homespun soul. Sounding not unlike the Chambers Brothers tracks from the period, it owes greatly to Motown and Stax R&B sylings. With a tight rhythm section and funky, gospel-inspired vocals, it's a far cry from what the band would soon achieve. However, the slightly politicized lyric content is already in place, and the sense of urgency is undeniable.