If you're a huge fan of Billy Griffin, and simply love the production work of John Barnes then look no further for double satisfaction in the shape of this tasty album from 1983. Our good friends at Sony, Japan re-released this title on CD in the late summer of 2001 and I am very pleased to say that it's still available today. Expansion recently released a 'Best Of' compilation of this Great Man, and to be honest, I would have preferred a release of a 3-on-2 set as Edsel have done with many of the Philadelphia International releases. One compilation alone4 cannot do justice to such a talent so I'm hoping that Systematic sees the light of day, as well as a LEGAL reissue of "Be With Me". We must remember that the artists pour their heart, soul and resources into these sets and when we go hunting for music it's only right and proper that the artist gets their dues.This is what you'll be doing when you lay your hands on this tasty morsel. A solid album with plenty to hold your attention, "Respect" works well on many levels and thanks to the wonderful magic that is generated when Billy works with John. The header track is one that would not have been out of place on a later album, had there been one, in the late 80s, and the bassline in tune with what we may expect out of Minneapolis. My favourite tracks follow on from this foot-tapper and these are "Don't Stop Lovin' Me" and "Serious". These are, for all intents and purposes one track, and they segue beautifully. The former is a dreamy, Serene and fully ensconced track; Barnes' synths add real splendour and majesty, the bridge between the two songs spine-tingling..."Serious" seamlessly kicks in and ups the ante. A bubbling, midtempo cut featuring exactly the type of 80s Rhodes keys that send me to seventh heaven. 80s soul, again, proves that it was not the crass, synthesised decade many make out. The dancer, "Save Your Love For Me" is a great showcase for Billy's vocals and has echoes of "Hold Me Tighter In The Rain". So many wonderful tracks to tell you about! I simply have to highlight "Don't Ask Me To Be Friends", a dangerously hot and sexy midtempo number, complete with brass, Rhodes and killer synth lines. "So Many Ways" is a little different with a mere ghost of a reggae groove between the lines - don't let this slip by. I finish my heap of praise with the sublime "Dreaming" which has a Gary Taylor feel to it. The melody and use of percussion is right out of Gary's "Compassion" album (see review.) Japanese albums don't usually last for long...do not let this slip away.
Barry Towler
The Vibe Scribe
The Vibe Scribe
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