Sequal

Of all the femme pop-dance outfits that garnered major-label deals in the late 80's, Florida-based Sequal was probably the most authentic, vocally talented act, armed with some of the strongest production and material of the bunch. Yet, unlike their peers Expose', The Cover Girls, Seduction, and Company B, none of their singles ever graced the pop charts. In a way, that's not surprising - for the songs here don't have the instant hooks of Expose's "Come Go with Me" or Seduction's "Two to Make It Right"; yet they are inherently more sophisticated in composition and delivery. Maria Christensen wails with studied yet fiery soul, while Angie finesses with sultry cooing. In fact, both of the girls get a solo number on the set. Production-wise, the sounds are variably flavored, thanks to a selection that culls from freestyle, house, and electro-funk meisters. This is another distinction from their peers' albums -- which all primarily relied on one stable of producers. The sonic palette here ranges from the understated midtempo groove of "Tell Him I Called," contributed by Stock-Aitken-Waterman; to the sprightly, R&B-induced jam "Took Another Chance" (headed by Mantronik and featuring background vocals by Nancy Martinez); and the straight-out freestyle killer "It's Not Too Late," which had been the duo's first independent single in 1985 and remains a sought-after 12" classic. Also enticing are the set's two charting single releases: "Tell the Truth" (#9 club) and "I'm Over You" (#11 club). All in all, Sequal is a thoroughly enjoyable dance collection offering not only solid beats and kinetic arrangements, but also grabbing vocals, enticing melodies, and even some impressive lyrics (in particular, check out the women's-liberation-themed CD bonus track, "Let It Go"). That the set didn't get more mainstream exposure is a shame; but Christensen went on to enjoy success in the 90's by co-writing "Waiting for Tonight," a song featured on her group 3rd Party's album Alive and turned into an international hit by Jennifer Lopez. ~ Justin M. Kantor, All Music Guide