Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

Sweet Comfort Band greeted the '80s with a change of style which was matched by the brash colourful and not very subtle album cover. Losing some of their fluid funkiness and embracing a slightly rockier style, there are certain elements still in place - the stylish vocal performances, Randy Thomas' fine guitar work, Bryan Duncan's excellent keyboard playing and one of the tightest rhythm sections around. Having said that "Feel Like Singin" feels like classic SCB and stands out above everything else with its horn section and a guest appearance on bass from funk legend Louis Johnson (Brothers Johnson) and Bryan Duncan letting loose vocally. And the opener "Isabel" features some scorching guitar work from Thomas. I always think this band is at its best when it's being funky but sadly this is a little more straight forward pop/rock in a lot of places which doesn't allow the band to demonstrate what makes them unique. No one can deny the band's superb musicianship but there's a sense of dumbing it down on this album.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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