Iconic soul collective The O’Jays deliver the perfect record for ‘times such as these’ on socially-charged single, “Above the Law.”

“So now man with pen in his hands / Changes the lay and the law of the land.” Man, oh man, what a great way to kick off the first verse from “Above the Law.” “Above the Law” is a new single from the iconic soul trio, The O’Jays.  If you have somehow managed to be unfamiliar with this legendary collective, they are responsible for gems including “Back Stabbers,” “Love Train,” and “For the Love of Money.”  On “Above the Law,” they prove that still have some of the old magic.

“Above the Law” has plenty of pros.  Among the selling points are the soulful, rhythmic drums that anchor the record.  Furthermore, there are some great instrumental ideas and riffs, specifically the use of dramatic strings to intensify the effect of the lyrics.  Speaking of the lyrics, they are thoughtful, politically, and socially-charged – built for ‘times like these.’  The chorus is the centerpiece, in all its catchy, memorable, and well-written glory:

“How much money would you give to live above the law?
How many souls would you sell to dwell above the law?
As long as it’s working in your favor, you love the law
Making our lives a living hell, above the law.”

Beyond the chorus, there are numerous lyrical high-points, including reference to Martin Luther King, Jr. and Abraham Lincoln on the first verse (“Abe helped out a bit, Martin did what he could / And it might’ve worked out but evil exists as well as good.”).  There’s also reference to slavery and poverty on the pre-chorus, while the second verse deal in equality and racial issues.  Notably on the bridge, The O’Jays proclaim, “The game is fixed, pure parlor tracks / Using religion as a deadly weapon / Dealing with me unrighteously.”

Final Thoughts

With all the positives surrounding “Above the Law,” could there be anything that ways this contemporary O’Jays showing down? Well, the quality of the production and vocal production are a bit questionable, even if the soul still comes through without a hitch.  Otherwise, hard to knock the messaging or the strength of “Above the Law.”

The O’Jays • Above the Law – Single • O’Jays Gigs, Inc. / S-Curve • Release: 10.19.18

Photo Credits: O’Jays Gigs, Inc. / S-Curve