Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

Working at the intersection of R&B, jazz and, in this case, a touch of disco, this release on A&M in 1979 was meant to be Seawind's breakthrough record. After their self-titled debut and the 'Window Of A Child' set were issued on a small label, A&M spotted this hugely talented six-piece. The group, featuring the delicious vocals of Pauline Wilson, were something special although after the creative extravagances of some of their earlier material, this feels tame by comparison with songs shorter, sharper and more commercial. That's not to say there isn't a huge amount to enjoy here but as one who enjoyed their jazzier blow outs, this was a slight disappointment. "Hold On To Love" gets you quickly into the album with a catchy bit of pop jazz funk. The impressive thing is how easily this band settle into a groove so even the simplest songs have an undercurrent of complex instrumentation. They are a class act even if they're not hitting the creative peaks here. But hold on. There is one absolute classic here when Pauline shimmers her way through the delightful soul ballad "Follow Your Road". This gem has stood the test of time very well. Elsewhere, "Free" with its Latin percussion and whistles falls into the classier end of the disco era to be filed next to the Brothers Johnson. Coincidentally, like Louis Johnson, 1979 would see members of the Seawind horn section playing on Michael Jackson's breakthrough album 'Off The Wall'. Sadly, that high profile work didn't lead to major recognition for this band though A&M had enough faith to invite them back to the party for a further release. These days, this album is much prized by jazz funk devotees though hard to find. And if you do locate one you may have to shell out for a Japanese import!

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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