My mind boggles as to why this Lady was not a huge star. Such a lovely voice, the ability to turn her delicately tattooed hand to any style she so desired should have been a firm foundation for her. The rocket that should have launched her into stardom was production from the mighty Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. Past their prime, admittedly, and suffering from the identity crisis caused by the 1990s they still were able to create some magic and especially with such a talent as Angel. In places I can hear echoes of Marva King and Karyn White, both utterly amazing talents and both equally scrumptious! What this album does is work on many levels. It aims to appeal to many sets of ears and the opening song is one I can point to for an example. A gorgeous floater, soulful and drizzled with 70s styled keys, this is a perfect vehicle for Janet Jackson and SHOULD have been massive. Such a pity as this is one classy crossover track. The Sounds Of Blackness' "Big" Jim Wright contributes a lot to this set and he shares writing duty on many songs, including the feel-good "Knockin'", another cut that Janet should have been recording instead of the kiddies' R&B that she seems so intent upon. Fans of THAT spine-tingling Jam and Lewis sound should look no further than the painfully short "Om". You can see that this Lady is very spiritual and everything about her points towards a more New Age kinda girl, and the sentiments of the likes of India.Arie are predated by a few years here. This cut is GORGEOUS. Plenty of the old magic still there - even if it runs at a bare 1:59!!! This is a very short delve into the mechanics of guided meditation - though don't try it - I assure you it's like trying to pass your driving test theory by simply reading the front cover! Again, that old 80s magic appears again on the single, "Lil' Red Boat". Why was this not a radio hit?! The cut, though, that will have you clicking away like a thing possessed on the link below is the KILLER "Kisses Luv Lips". Play the link below and bask in the magnificence of this cut. It is AWESOME. There is so much to love about this track, the Fender Rhodes, handled by Big Jim are great and Paulinho Da Costa on percussion is subtle yet perfect. A sexy track, and one to really turn up loud. Worth a purchase for this song and this song alone. Don't let this one slip away.
Barry Towler
The Vibe Scribe
The Vibe Scribe
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