Dan and Carl dive into 3 + 3, the 1973 soul-funk classic by The Isley Brothers—album #464 on Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. This episode explores the band’s transformation from their doo-wop roots to a fully self-contained funk powerhouse. From iconic covers like “Summer Breeze” and “Listen to the Music” to original gems like “That Lady” and “What It Comes Down To,” the hosts unpack the musicianship, harmonies, and sonic evolution that made this record a defining statement for the group. Expect laughs, deep dives into theory, and the usual mix of heartfelt appreciation and comedic tangents that make Backwards Beats a must-listen.

Key Points

• Album Context: Released in 1973, 3 + 3 marked The Isley Brothers’ creative rebirth, blending soul, funk, and gospel influences while debuting their expanded six-member lineup.


• Recording & Influences: Recorded at The Record Plant in Los Angeles, during the same era Stevie Wonder was working on Innervisions. The interplay between these artists helped define 1970s R&B sound design.


• Signature Sound: Features the legendary guitar tone of Ernie Isley—fuzzed-out, sustained, and way ahead of its time.


• Musicianship: The Isley Brothers’ self-contained approach shines—tight rhythm section, rich harmonies, and inventive chord work. Dan and Carl break down progressions, vocal textures, and clever rhythmic layering.


• Legacy: The album’s versatility—balancing hits, covers, and musical sophistication—cements it as a timeless entry in funk and soul history.


• Verdict: A unanimous “Would You Hit It? Absolutely.” Dan and Carl both praise the album’s cohesion, groove, and staying power.

Music Referenced

• Footsteps in the Dark by The Isley Brothers


• Innervisions by Stevie Wonder


• Songs in the Key of Life by Stevie Wonder


• Please Please Me by The Beatles


• Twist and Shout by The Beatles


• Rolling Stones


• Don't Let Me Be Lonely Tonight by James Taylor


• Dreams to Remember by Otis Redding


• You Are So Beautiful by Joe Cocker


• Let's Stay Together by Al Green


• Tell Me Something Good by Rufus


• Listen to the Music by The Doobie Brothers


• Queen of Hearts by Juice Newton


• Sunshine by Juice Newton


• Sunshine by Jonathan Edwards


• Summer Breeze by Seals and Crofts


• Reminiscing by Little River Band


• Boston


• Toto


• Gorillaz


• Sparks


• Big Girls Don’t Cry by Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons


• Sherry by Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons


• Fly by Michael Mayo


• Giant Steps by Michael Mayo


• Fore by Michael Mayo


• Nate Smith

💿 Next week: Eli and the Thirteenth Confession by Laura Nyro.

🕺 Salt your melons, and keep those grooves alive.