This was a very odd album for the time, and to be honest I am surprised it was released at all. The album is really, really strong and rates as one of their best, most solid efforts but released in 1981 the set could easily have been recorded between 1974 and 1976. It really has that luxurious Philly feel to it from the start to the very end. Not a surprise when you see that the late, great Norman Harris, was responsible for production. Co-production comes from Then member of Love Committee, Ron Tyson. Recorded at Alpha International recording studios in Philadelphia the scene is set, and the stage is dressed with solid writing from the likes of Bobby Eli, Allan Felder, Richie Rome and Vernon Barrett. Quality assured. The dramatic opening song is worthy of any sweet Philly harmony group – the Delfonics would have been great on this! “The Oscar” thunders in with a crescendo of strings, then Ted Mills' sweet falsetto takes control over a very sweet Philly ballad.The uptempo Thom Bell-like “Feeling The Love” cannot be beaten and the Spinners inspired “Who Could Ever Leave You” contains a beautiful rhythm and is laced with some gorgeous Philly guitar. Fans of their “13 Blue Magic Lane” set will immediately warm to the zingy “Welcome Back”, the pounding beat and darting strings and flute add extra magic. “Land Of Make Believe” has some Thom Bell overtones to it, and really sounds out of place with what many artists were creating at the same time. Today though, the set sounds fantastic. Timeless. My favourite song is the beautiful “Standin' On The Edge Of A Love Affair” which lets the guys interplay their vocal skills nicely. “Let There Be Love” and “All I Need Is You” are also must-haves. Both are ballads of the highest order. Strings, incidentally, are courtesy of Don Renaldo and backing vocals from Philly's finest – Carla Benson, Phil Hurtt and Barbara Ingram! This is, without doubt brilliant Philly soul from 1981! Do not overlook this remarkable album.
Barry Towler
The Vibe Scribe
The Vibe Scribe
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