Reception
Mr. Natural generated no global hits, but represented an important step in The Bee Gees' evolution into something more than simple pop balladeers. The album shows a strong Philadelphia soul influence in tracks like "Throw a Penny". Other highlights include "Mr. Natural", the infectious hard rock tunes "Down the Road" and "Heavy Breathing", and the power ballad "Charade". Despite the fact that the Bee Gees and Mardin point to the background vocal session for "Nights on Broadway" as the genesis of the trademark Bee Gee falsetto, those with keen ears can hear a distinctive (albeit subtle in comparison to later recordings) Barry Gibb falsetto in the backing vocals of "Dogs".
The gospel-tinged song "Give a Hand, Take a Hand" was written in 1969 (hence Robin's lack of writing credit, he wasn't working with his brothers at the time) and originally recorded for their 1970 album Cucumber Castle but was not released and was used by P.P. Arnold, and her version was released as a single in September 1969 which was produced by Barry Gibb.
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| Allmusic | link |
| Rolling Stone | (not rated) link |
Read more about this topic: Mr. Natural (Bee Gees Album)
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