This SUPERB 1982 album was re-released in 2001 on Jon's very own Sugar Apple imprint. Some songs remind me of songs such as Maxi Anderson’s "Lover To Lover" from 1977. The quality of this album is unsurpassable … let’s face facts here – with no less than the London, New York and Chicago Symphony Orchestras providing the swirling musical foundation this is one special recording. Add to this my favourite instrument, the Fender Rhodes piano, bass guitar and flute the scene is set for enchantment and magic. This is a CD that collectors, connoisseurs and fans will beg, borrow and scream for. Heaven sent! Of the 8 compositions on this album not one single song fails to disappoint me. I was always enthralled by the album from the opening bars of "Tender Love Of Mine" right through to "Too Damn Hot". As you can gather there are immense problems trying to pull out one favourite track from another … but at a push (and a hard one at that!) I plumb for these following gems, beginning with the enticing Rhodes laced string-laden lilting "Tender Love Of Mine" with its warm and fruity Caribbean flavour. In addition, "Together As One" is another quality song complete with arrangements by the Chicago Symphony directed by Richard Evans. This is the song that reminds me so much of the Maxi Anderson favourite, and is drenched with sensual backing vocals of female group Cinnamon – this group have the sort of harmony we can find on Lou Rawls’ "Close Company" or Ramsey Lewis & Nancy Wilson’s "The Two Of Us" sets. The brassy and uplifting LA flavoured "How ‘Bout Tonight" also features the wonderful Cinnamon as well as spacious production, rhodes, guitar licks and symphonic support. Another favourite is the GORGEOUS "Tell Me You Love Me" in which Jon’s vocals are as velvety as you like, and so caress the orchestral manoeuvring like the finest silk. As for other songs … I could go on, but I won’t! All I will say is that If you love Jon’s music and are a fan, a connoisseur of quality music or have any affinity, how beautiful real music then please do not overlook this album. It is CLASSIC, essential and not to be left out of your collection. Pure sophistication. I truly mourn the passing of this great man, and even though we have this glittering legacy, nothing can take away the sadness of not having a new Jon Lucien album to look forward to. Available on CD Baby.
Barry Towler
The Vibe Scribe
The Vibe Scribe
