The cream cut comes in the form of "It Really Doesn't Matter" which has a guitar and keyboard so reminiscent of Leon Ware - and vocally Regis is a dead ringer for dear old Luther! The talented singer called Portia Griffin 'duets' with Howard on the ballad "You'll Never Need" and "Just A Chance" lifts the tempo and mood, jumping back into a classic 80s groove yet again. If "It Doesn't Really Matter" wasn't killer enough, check the chunky floater "King Of Fools" which is such a STRONG record complete with baseline and fender rhodes. Regis Branson is allowed control over this song and shows that he really can deliver the goods big time! You will also be aware of Will Downing's tasty version for GRP later that year! Following the cheerful dancer, "Every Little Thing" comes the gentle "Mystical Persuasion" which is simply delightful in every way. The closing song isn't the best uptempo cut here, but is a fairly decent closing song for a well balanced album of groove, seduction, rough and smooth vocals and that magic ingredient…Soul! Soul Japan was a label that promised a lot but has sadly disappeared into obscurity. Such a pity. If you see it, grab it.
Barry Towler
The Vibe Scribe