The Jackson 5: ABC - 1970
Now came an album that was basically a fun, enjoyable teenage (almost sub-teenage) offering. It is excellent, invigorating, effervescent quality Motown pop, however and should be assessed positively as such.
It is simply an enjoyable half hour's listen that will put you in a better mood for the day. The hit singles The Love You Save and ABC follow that bubblegum-ish formula, but they are classic infectious, singalong pop, as too is the very similar One More Chance. 2-4-6-8 is another playground-inspired song to win over a young audience.
There is also some good soul material on here too - (Come Round Here) I'm The One You Need, Never Had A Dream Come True and True Love Can Be Beautiful. Michael could carry a soul song, even at such a young age.
The cover of The Delfonics' La La Means I Love You is convincing and I'll Bet You is a surprisingly funky, horn-driven Temptations-esque number that is delivered in a mature style beyond their energetic years. The equally impressive Found That Girl has Jermaine on lead vocals and also has a solid soulfulness.