Tuesday, 3 February 2009

Bobby Glover - Bad Bobby Glover - 1984 - Columbia

Bobby Glover is a singer in the traditional sense - undoubtedly he found his footing in the non-secular world and his firebrand style vocals are raw and cutting enough to shred ribbon. This rough, impassioned vocal style is drenched in soul and the man is met head on by a bubbly and funky Roger Troutman and Zapp who know how to wrap the funky tunes around him, deploying a fiercely funky set that will appeal to devotees of the Funk as well as classy 80s balladry. You may recall the short-lived 3-Way record label released a compilation in 1988 called "Time Is Right" which was comprised of many a Columbia gem from the 70s and 80s. Well, "It's My Turn" was the choice included on that set and an inspired choice it was too. This particular song is summery, downtempo, and so soulful that it hurts. Roger and the gang have done a great job here, and on this cut the amazing Shirley Murdock can be heard doing what she does best.

"Your Spell" is a tune that should do well on radio and dancefloors even today, the slinky, funky rhythm is not over the top, yet the clapping beat and quirky keyboards and dominant bassline should get a few feet on the move. Total class. The Zapp-like "So Mean" is quirky, freaky and funky but at no point does the famous talk-box come into play, instead some ripping synth and horns - fans of New Horizons will get to grips with this easily. There is a cut called "Happy" which really proves to be a great vehicle for Bobby's smoother side, and the Ohio Players-ish "Bright Skies, Sunny Days" has Dayton, Ohio stamped all over it - a loose, summery melody and stylish 80s keyboards are the order of the day. Those already exposed to "It's My Turn" will no doubt take a shine to the similarly smooth "I Love You" and "I Can't Stand The Pain". It's a pity we had but one album for this gentleman. Such a powerful, soulful vocalist and one that should have had a greater career. Mind you, these days who knows who will show up and when!