Chris Jasper mainly writes non-secular material now, and he's still making some great tunes even, if like me, you are not at all religious. Chris was a staple part of the Isley Brothers from 1973 til 1984 and he then went on with a run of 3 albums with brothers Ernie and Marvin, spawning some great songs and a huge US hit with "Caravan Of Love". If you loved that style that the Isley Brothers and Isley Jasper Isleyadopted in the 1980s, then you will love the solo efforts from Chris, and this album in particular. The LP hit our import specialists early in 1988 and was a resounding success, with the gorgeous track "Like I Do" and the single, "Superbad" being rightly championed by Radio One's Soul Train programme, steered by Andy Peebles. Chris is a real talent and a powerhouse of accessible yet quality songs that stand the test of time. Some say his style has changed little from the early 80s, and to that I counter with "so what?!" I love that sound - it is Chris Jasper doing what he does best, and when a sound or an artists is timeless it really does not matter. Long may he continue! The lead single was "Superbad", a seriously hook-driven and funky number that even contained children as backing singers - and it didn't sound at all bad. Chris is a very upbeat and positive soul and what he was doing was giving a positive message to the kids. If people did this more often and not browbeat them, then they may feel more self-worth. Rant over! I really love "Giving My All", which is CLASSIC Chris Jasper, and I'm sure his wife, Margie, was definitely in mind when he penned this gem. The dramatic "One Time Love" with great harmonies is strong, as is the rough and funky "Dance For The Dollar" but my favourite song EVER of Chris' is "Like I Do". I melted when I heard this wonderful song, and I have never tired of playing it. The synth he uses is enough to make the hairs stand up on my arms, and the lyrics are very personal, I am sure, and it's this real, genuine, emotion that has gone into the writing, crafting and execution that seals this song's fate as an all-time classic quiet storm tune. Amazon still have copies of this, so if you like the sound of this album, then snap it up on CD now before it's too late!
Barry Towler
The Vibe Scribe
The Vibe Scribe
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