1986 was a classy year, there is no two ways about it. That particular year was crammed full of quality releases, and to me 1986 was the pinnacle of well-crafted adult-orientated RnB. take this set for Jive Records for example. I remember one Sunday night listening to Robbie Vincent and along came his 'music for a candle lit dinner' segment. To hear this particular song was jaw-dropping in two distinct and definite ways. Firstly here we had the no-nonsense Millie Jackson in full clean-mouthed and non-rappin' mode and secondly the track was the best thing she had ever laid down on vinyl. I was bowled over and immediately bought the LP. Twenty-three years on "I Fell In Love" still makes the hairs on my arms stand up. Now THAT is quality that stands the test of time. In fact, I'd go as far as saying this Lady has NEVER bettered this song and that's no indictment on her talents, it's just homage to a wonderful song.The LP also benefited from a cover of Prince's 1978 single "Wanna Be Your Lover" - a fair interpretation and well pitted against Millie's undoubted skills behind the microphone, but not as earthy or special as the original. "Love Is A Dangerous Game" is also another goodie to pick out. For such a sassy and forthright Lady I can hear the sheer joy she had in recording and performing this material. This is delivered with a BIG smile and Millie is one Lady with one big smile. The single, "Hot! Wild! Unrestricted! Crazy Love" made some impact here in the UK, and established Millie on a new path following the ending on her career with Spring. Jive was quite a perky little label in the 1980s and very early 1990s and "An Imitation Of Love" was made in the spirit of that label at that particular time. If you have only heard this Lady at her most ferocious, her most raucous and firebrand then this set will be like cold ointment on a bad sunburn. To me the album IS the "I Fell In Love" track, and to this day I cannot rate the song highly enough.
Barry Towler
The Vibe Scribe
The Vibe Scribe
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