The late 80s was party to some serious, classy, adult soul music which today still sounds as fresh as a daisy. Defying trends and demanding nothing but quality from all who participate, when soul is at it's peak then nothing in the world can dent or scratch it. Leata Galloway is a classicly trained singer who had previously worked with the London Philarmonic Orchestra. So you know what caliber of singer we are dealing with here. Her vocal range is simply stunning, awesome and sets her high above many female vocalists then and today. God, she certainly takes most of today's 'talents' and knocks them into a cocked hat. That is no understatement. The album, I have to say, was not given a warm reception as it was ballad orientated and - let's not beat about the bush - too classy for those who cannot see past thelatest fad. Production was handled expertley by Nick Martinelli, Preston Glass and Allan Roy Scott and I would argue that this comprises their best ever work - it really is a classy statement of what the right producer, the right singer and a label run by grown-ups can deliver! I adore seven tracks on here - the first being the haunting and atmospheric "Fascination". The jaw-dropping opening and Leata's stellar vocal range should be enough to catapult her into the league of greats. But where is she today??? Similarly, the track ends on such a note that my chills get chills! If cold chills are your bag then the KILLER "One Of These Nights" will have yopu changing your underwear, the french horns and strings plus Randy Bowland's guitar work make this a cut to die for. "Shades Of Blue" should ring your bell if you are a fan of Regina Belle, and Ron Kerber's sax is great as are backing vocalists Cynthia Biggs and James King! "Heartache (Don't Discriminate)" is a top Preston Glass cut which, I feel, could easily be taken up by the Stylistics. Such is the melody and phrasing that Russell Thompkins, Jr could work well here. Two covers of note too - "You'll Never Get To Heaven" and "Cry Me A River", both superb and the latter favoured by DJ Andy Peebles on his Soul Train show. "I'm Scared Of You" and "The Naked Truth" are awesome slow jams courtesy of messrs Martinelli and Glass. One of the 80s hidden gems, if you are into the finest of the finest in quiet storm soul then this album is a real must.
