DiscoMusic.com

This is one fantastic album by producer Jacques Fred Petrus and arranger Mauro Malavasi who turned out one spectacular record after the other in the early 80s. This debut album by BB&Q Band, along with Change's first two albums "The Glow Of Love" (1980) and "Miracles" (1981) is one of their very best. Obviously inspired by CHIC, they headed for the same sleek production, focusing on tight rhythms, piano and strings, and added a touch of Italian elegance (the music was recorded in Italy, the vocals in New York). The end result sounded even better than CHIC themselves in this period. "On The Beat", although a modest UK hit (#41), is a powerhouse dance anthem with an irresistible chorus and has proved consistently popular over the years. "Time For Love" is one of those gorgeous songs that just has CHIC's trademark sound written all over it. A mellow yet funky groove with a dreamy, whispery choir and a soulful lead vocal by Ike Floyd. It features a great and effective break! "Don't Say Goodbye" is a more average ballad before another highlight of the album, the excellent "Starlette" with ultra-sharp staccato vocals kicks in, followed by "Mistakes" which keeps the pace. "Lovin's What We Should Do" is a beautiful very CHIC-style (again) ballad, "I'll Cut You Loose" - the obligatory reggae-track of the early 80s - is less spectacular. The album is highly recommended for "On The Beat", "Starlette" and "Time For Love" in particular, and Change's "Miracles" album from the same year is even better.