The Fuzz [1971] - Ooh Baby Baby [Calla SC-2001]

A superb version and completely different arrangement to Smokey's classic.  Released in 1971 on their, self-titled, only album.

Sheila Young, Barbara (aka Roberta) Gilliam and Val Williams were a female vocal trio from Washington, D.C. They were originally called The Passionettes who changed their name to The Fuzz when they signed to Calla in 1971.

Discogs states that The Passionettes were formed in 1970, but I believe that this may be incorrect as there is another group called The Passionetts (without the 'e' at end) who recorded 2 45s in the 60s 'My Fault' / 'My Plea' on Path in 1965 (My Fault was played in mid 80s on NS scene covered up as Norma Jenkins & The Dolls) and 'My Life Depends On You'  / 'I'm Not In Love With You Anymore' in 1969 on Soul Burst (the only 45 listed for the label).  Listening to these tracks, they do sound like it may be the same group. What do you think?

As The Passionettes, they recorded only one 45 on Uni, 'Sister Watch Yourself' (a sister funk track also recorded by The Mirettes on Uni on their Midnight Hour album in 1969) / 'Stand By Your Man'  originally written and recorded by Tammy Wynette  of course, and also recorded by The Mirettes on Uni  in 1969 and released as a single.

The Fuzz is best known in Northern Soul circles for their 1971 Calla 45  'I'm So Glad'.

They have slightly raised the tempo of the original and it has an almost reggae/lovers rock feel about it.