Category: Pop, R&B, Soul, & Dance

SUMMARY:                       RUNNING TIME: 4:11 Min.

From their 1997 self-titled album, Allure’s romantic R&B track features Nas.

REVIEW:

As a quartet, Allure’s sultry vocals prove ideal. It’s the best asset for this upbeat track. The disadvantage, however, is that their beguiling teamwork too often overshadow the song’s unremarkable lyrics.  A standard-issue ‘90s R&B melody can only do so much to hide this reality. Two rounds of solo rapping from Nas fail to bolster much of anything – “Head Over Heels” would have likely worked better without his involvement. In the end, the song makes a likable but not great R&B download 

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                        6½ Stars

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SUMMARY:                                         RUNNING TIME: 4:00 Min.

“Let Love Rule” is the mid-tempo title track for singer Ledisi’s same-named 2018 R&B album.

REVIEW:

“Let Love Rule” serves up a delightfully romantic tune from Ledisi (aka Ledisi Young).  As evidenced by this track, Ledisi’s smooth vocal talents puts her within range of Patti LaBelle and Anita Baker.  This song makes an ideal option for potential R&B and dance playlists.    

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                        8 Stars

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SUMMARY:                                       RUNNING TIME: 4:34 Min.

Released in 1990 off Wilson Phillips’ self-titled album, “Impulsive” was the trio’s third radio hit (including a MTV/VH-1 music video).  The tune has been subsequently re-released on its 2005 ‘Best of’ album and a ‘Greatest Hits’ compilation.  This song features Wendy Wilson’s first lead vocals for the group. 

REVIEW:

This upbeat and charming romantic tune ages surprisingly well, as Wendy Wilson’s appealing vocals benefit from an above-average melody.  Back-up vocals from Chynna Phillips and Carnie Wilson are well-utilized.  As a sample of vintage Wilson Phillips, “Impulsive” makes a fun download option for 90’s pop-dance playlists.   

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:               7½ Stars

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SUMMARY:                                RUNNING TIME: 4:27 Min.

Initially released in 1990 as the lead track off Wilson Phillips’ self-titled album, “Hold On” remains the signature tune of Chynna Phillips and The Wilson Sisters (Carnie & Wendy).  It also serves as the group’s debut MTV/VH-1 music video. The track has been subsequently re-released on a 2005 ‘Best of’ release and a ‘Greatest Hits’ compilation for this group.  This particular song features Chyna Phillips’ lead vocals. 

REVIEW:

Accompanying by a gentle melody, this upbeat track advocating emotional resiliency in a troubled relationship delivers Wilson Phillips at their best.  The effervescent vocals of Chyna Phillips, Wendy Wilson, and Carnie Wilson are superb.  “Hold On” is well worth downloading for Best-of-the-90’s pop playlists. 

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                             8 Stars

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SUMMARY:                                         RUNNING TIME: 3:42 Min.

Released in 2009, this duet pop track is performed by Liam Finn & Eliza Jane.  Finn composed the song.

REVIEW:

Initially bolstered by a fine melody, the breezy vocal chemistry between Liam Finn and Eliza Jane is entertaining enough.  That distinction at least applies to the song’s first half.  Later in the song, however, the squeaky background instrumentals are increasingly distracting and even higher-pitched, to the point that it just becomes noise. 

Unfortunately, this unforced error sabotages Finn’s decent solo vocals.  Another factor is that Finn’s song sounds better with Eliza Jane, as this track is really only a partial duet.  “Honest Face” is a modest coffee house tune worth hearing once, but it isn’t worth a download. 

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                    4 Stars

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