Released on Arista records in 1981, “Mr. C” is for me the most consistent and soulful of all the works of the legendary Norman Connors. Featuring vocalists such as Beau Williams, Glenn Jones, Jean Carn and Derrick Hughes the album relies on mid tempo to up tempo grooves and is one for those who love their 80s tunes on the boogie side of the street. Beau Williams may have given himself over to the Gospel field now, but back in the day he was throwing down some killer dancers and the Benjamin Wright arranged and conducted “She's Gone” is sublime. There is no messing around with this song. Vocally and musically it is a perfect example of all that was great and good about 1981 and highlights what is missing today. The party grooves of “Party Town” - arranged by McKinley Jackson - and “Keep Doin' It” are seriously infectious and best of Norman Connors' grooves, the Starship Orchestra – featuring Duke Jones and Marion Meadows – lay down some right and proper tunes. The party does not stop there, and “Stay With Me” fires on all cylinders with a jazzy groove and plenty of drum work courtesy of Mr. C himself! How great this still sounds, and thanks again to Benjamin Wright for his competency at the helm. “Anyway You Want” does not disappoint either and the soulful backing vocals are full of sass, all thanks to the vocal direction of none other than Phyllis St. James! Fans of Glenn Jones will already love his faultless delivery of “Melancholy Fire” but do not look over this swayer called “Sing A Song Of Love”. When listening to this great singer's work I always return to the work of the early 80s. His style, along with real instruments and a strong summer-time groove really suits him. I'd love to hear Glenn return to this sound. Swirling strings and flute usher in the delightful pairing of Jean Carn and Derrick Hughes on “Love's In Your Corner” - this paving the way for Connors and Carn to work together on her Motown album but a year later. The album finishes with a more traditional Connors effort, the brilliant “Mr. C” with my favourite keyboards at the front of the queue and more horns than an enclosure of rhinos! The slap bass is also to die for, and in turn the Starship Orchestra arranged by Jacques Burvick, take turns to showcase their skills supported by Mr. C himself bashing the drum like there is no tomorrow. Superb, and definitely worth a purchase on reissued CD or on vinyl, depending on your taste. It doesn't matter. It's the groove that counts and “Mr. C” is chocca with them.
Barry Towler
The Vibe Scribe
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