Ray Simpson

Tiger Love (LP)

Warner Brothers Records (US) / 1978 / BSK 3180
LP-album 33 ⅓ rpm vinyl record
Genre: Dance

This LP isn't bad at all. I mean, there's no really stupid or downright crappy tracks, and the production has been cared for. It just isn't one of those records you fall in love with from the first play, and there's not really a track that immediately stands out as a masterpiece.

However, after several playbacks, some tracks started growing on me:
"Good Naughty Night": a slow track. I really like the mix of strings, horns, and Ray's voice. Some really nicely arranged moments.
"You're the one" is a rendition of John Davis' track off "Up Jumped The Devil". The intro makes you beleive a fast-paced disco track is coming up; in fact, it's more like a ballad. Not bad, just a little sluggish, but it does have its good moments.
"I never thought I'd fall in love": I surprisingly like this ballad, for its mood, and Ray's smooth voice.
"My love is understandin'" is a vain attempt at a somewhat thrilling disco track. Both first tries left me bored, and having to fight the urge to get the record off the platter, and play Paul Vincent's "Super Elton" Instrumental instead. But on the 3rd attempt, I finally started caving in. It actually grows on you.

All in all, a record worth having if you're a collector, for the people behind it, and as a complement to your Ashford & Simpson and John Davis collections.

Submitted by KoolChris (178)

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