Expansion Records

The Product: The Aristocrats – Let’s Get Together Now / I’m On My Way Label: Expansion / Warner Bros. Format: 7" Vinyl Single (45 RPM) Catalog Number: EX7022 Release Year: 2018 Side A: "Let’s Get Together Now" Produced by the legendary Bobby Martin, this track is the gold standard of "Harmony Soul." It features a lush, orchestral arrangement with a mid-tempo "steppers" beat that has made it a favorite on the Modern Soul scene. It’s the kind of record that feels like a warm breeze—mellow, melodic, and perfectly balanced. Side B: "I’m On My Way" A faster, more traditional Northern Soul-style dancer. It provides the perfect flip to the A-side, showcasing the group's ability to handle up-tempo material without losing their signature vocal polish. Fascinating Collector’s Facts & Figures 1. The Bobby Martin "Philly" Connection The Aristocrats weren't just any vocal group; they were backed by the best in the business. The Fact: The tracks were produced and arranged by Bobby Martin, one of the key architects of the Philadelphia International sound. Martin worked on almost every major hit for The O'Jays, Billy Paul, and The Intruders. The Figure: You can hear the "MFSB" (Mother Father Sister Brother) influence in the orchestration—Martin used the same pool of elite session musicians who defined the Philly sound, giving this record a high-budget, world-class sheen. 2. The Warner Bros. Rarity While many soul groups found a home on small independent labels, The Aristocrats were signed to the giant Warner Bros. * The Scarcity: Despite the major label backing, these tracks didn't receive a massive push at the time. Original 1971 US copies of "Let’s Get Together Now" (WB 7514) were often discarded or returned, making them exceptionally hard to find in Mint condition today. The Figure: An original US stock copy can set a collector back £100–£150 ($125–$190), making the EX7022 reissue an essential purchase for those who want the music without the heavy price tag. 3. The "Crossover" Transition This record is a perfect example of what collectors call "Crossover Soul." * The Nuance: It bridges the gap between the 60s "Motown" style and the 70s "Philly" style. It’s too polished to be raw 60s soul, but too rhythmic to be pure 70s disco. This "in-between" sound is currently the most popular sub-genre among UK soul collectors. 4. The Mystery of the Group Unlike The Spinners or The O'Jays, very little is known about the members of The Aristocrats. The Fact: They are often confused with other groups of the same name (like the jazz-rock trio). This anonymity has added to the "cult" status of the record, as the music has had to speak entirely for itself on the dancefloor. Technical Specs for Collectors The Mastering: Expansion’s EX7022 was remastered specifically to highlight the vocal harmonies. In the original 1971 mix, the strings occasionally sat too high; this reissue rebalances the levels, ensuring the "Sweet Soul" vocals cut through the mix. The Label: This release features the classic Warner Bros. "Palm Trees" style label or the minimalist Burbank design, keeping the vintage aesthetic intact. Collector's Tip: "Let’s Get Together Now" is a staple at the Prestatyn Soul Weekender and other Modern Soul events. Its BPM (Beats Per Minute) makes it an ideal "warm-up" record to get people on the floor before the heavy disco-funk begins.