In the '70s,
the Three Degrees bridged the gap between Philly soul and disco, moving from lush soul to seductive dance music within the course of their career. Although they had a few hits in the mid-'60s as an R&B vocal group, their career didn't really take off until the mid-'70s, when they signed to Philadelphia International and Gamble & Huff began producing their records.
The Best of the Three Degrees: When Will I See You Again covers the trio's time at Philadelphia International, when they had a number one pop hit with "TSOP (The Sound of Philadelphia)" and a number two pop hit with "When Will I See You Again," in addition to a string of minor R&B hits. Although their sound was always pleasing,
the Three Degrees didn't have quite enough depth in material to make this 14-track compilation consistently engaging. There are a couple of forgotten gems -- including the minor hit "Love is the Message" -- but the collection feels too comprehensive for some listeners. Still,
When Will I See You Again is the ideal starting point for anyone interested in
the Three Degrees -- it boils down their best moments, from both singles and album, to one disc. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine