Consumer Guide Album

Edwin Starr: Involved [Gordy, 1971]
Starr is more naturally strident than any of the Temptations, which suits both "War," a song he simply takes away from them, and "Stop the War," Barrett Strong's most strident protest yet. But he can also bring off the peaceful denouements Motown-political requires: Smokey's "Way Over There" changes the pace, and then "My Sweet Lord" helps you forgive "Stand!" Although he wastes twelve minutes on "Ball of Confusion," this is Norman Whitfield's peak production. B+