Description

Working Week – Positive – 7 Inch Vinyl Record

Positive is a seven inch single by the British jazz-dance band Working Week, released in 1985. Known for their blend of jazz, funk, soul, and Latin influences, Working Week emerged from the vibrant London music scene of the 1980s. Positive showcases the band’s sophisticated sound, characterized by smooth vocals, intricate arrangements, and a mix of upbeat and mellow tracks.

The song is rooted in jazz-dance, a genre that combines elements of jazz with dance music. This style is characterized by complex rhythms, melodic improvisations, and a danceable groove. Working Week incorporates soul and Latin influences into their music, adding richness and diversity to their sound. This blend creates a sophisticated and cosmopolitan feel.

The lyrics touch on social and political themes, reflecting the band’s engagement with issues of the time. ‘Venceremos (We Will Win)’ is particularly notable for its political message. Other tracks explore personal and emotional themes, delving into love, hope, and resilience.

The production features sophisticated arrangements that blend various musical elements seamlessly. The use of horns, keyboards, and percussion is particularly effective. The sound is smooth and polished, characteristic of jazz-dance music, with clear vocals and well-balanced instrumentation.

Positive received positive reviews from critics, who praised its sophisticated blend of genres and the band’s musical prowess. The single contributed to the jazz-dance movement of the 1980s, influencing subsequent artists in the genre and helping to popularize the blend of jazz and dance music.

British jazz-dance outfit Working Week was formed in 1983 by guitarist Simon Booth and saxophonist Larry Stabbins, who previously teamed in Weekend. The duo debuted the following year with ‘Venceremos (We Will Win),’ a tribute to Chilean protest singer Victor Jara featuring vocal contributions from Robert Wyatt and Everything But the Girl’s Tracey Thorn; singer Julie Tippetts assumed the spotlight on the follow-up, ‘Storm of Light,’ with the full-length Working Nights appearing in 1985.

Guest singers continued revolving in and out of the Working Week lineup prior to the permanent addition of Juliet Roberts in time for 1986’s Companeros; in the wake of 1987’s Knocking on Your Door, however, Roberts left the group, with another round of guests lending vocal input to Fire in the Mountain two years later. New frontwoman Yvonne Waite was installed for 1991’s Black and Gold.

Positive by Working Week stands as a significant song in the jazz-dance genre, showcasing the band’s ability to blend jazz, funk, soul, and Latin influences into a cohesive and sophisticated sound. The album’s mix of socially conscious lyrics, smooth melodies, and intricate arrangements captures the essence of the vibrant London music scene of the 1980s. Positive remains a testament to Working Week’s innovative approach to music and their contribution to the evolution of jazz-dance, influencing a generation of musicians and continuing to be celebrated for its musical excellence and cultural relevance.

45 RPM single

Brand new, never played with some jacket wear from storage

Ten Records 1991

Song Listing
Positive – Remix John Waddell
Mafre – Mixed By Andres Rodriguez