
When, back in the 1990s, Lou was asked about his 3 albums for Epic he was quick to respond in that they were his 'hidden gems'. Lou is well known for his outstanding earlier works with David Axelrod, Capitol and Philadelphia International and rightly so, but his 3 Epic LPs released in 1982, 1984 and 1986 were also of a high quality and both “Now Is The Time” and “Close Company” should really have been on Philadelphia International. Look at the producers, arrangers and musicians – all from that wonderful musical stable. This album was the first to be released in 1982 and is the most consistent of the trio concerned. There are two reasons for this, chiefly, three if you count Lou Rawls in himself. These being Mtume and Lucas on three tracks, and Thom Bell commanding the Lion's share of the rest. Listen to the album yourself and see what I mean.
All nine tracks are essential. The opening song is very 80s Thom Bell and fits Rawls style like a glove. The strings, arranged by Dunn Pearson, are spot-on and Bobby Eli provides guitar licks. Nice. I jump quickly to the so, so sweet strings and swirling Philly magnificence of “Ain't That Love, Baby”. I can see the PIR logo going around as I type! Tawatha Agee oversees the backing vocals and refrains on the huge Mtume number, “Now Is The Time For Love” which is as good as anything committed by the likes of Marc Sadane or Sunfire at the same time. The next Mtume cut is the stupendous ballad “It's Too Late (To Say Goodbye)” and I also want to draw your attention to “Back To You” which along with the title song featured on the recent Expansion 'Best Of Mtume and Lucas.” “Watch Your Back” is a great little number co-written between Thom Bell and Deniece Williams, the two having worked together on her past 2 albums for Columbia. Closing the set is the Johnny Mathis-ish Philly ballad “This Love”. I have always cherished this album, and if you have not heard it yet I too hope that you will also take it to heart too.
Barry Towler,
The Vibe Scribe
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