Glenn Jones

For any fans of male soul from the '80s, Glenn Jones should be included in the list of underrated vocalists. His pure, gospel-rooted approach is remarkable for its juxtaposition of sensitivity and grit. Whether he's delivering widely octave-spanning ballads such as "Show Me" or electronic dance grooves like "Finesse," he gives his all to each song and makes it a successful story. This CD release of his first two solo albums for RCA may surprise fans primarily familiar with later slow-jam hits like "We've Only Just Begun (The Romance Is Not Over)" and "Here I Go Again," as the bulk of the content here lies in R&B-driven club workouts. Certainly, some of the cuts get a bit repetitive and aren't melodically or lyrically challenging enough for Jones' able pipes, but there are some worthy moments, too. Highlights of the up-tempo selections include "Love Intensity"; the sprightly "Meet Me Half Way There"; and "Keep on Doin'," a duet with wife Genobia Jeter. Concerning the ballads, all four here exemplify the singer's genuine vocal power, from the simplicity of "Thank You for the Love" to the sultriness of "Everlasting Love." Though non-fans of dance-driven R&B may be unimpressed by much of the production and material here, this reissue deserves a spot in the collection of any serious fan of top-notch soul vocalists. ~ Justin M. Kantor, All Music Guide