Review

Deniece Williams: Song Bird (BBR)

One thing you can say about this lady is that her 4-octave vocal range is amazing, and this late-seventies set shows this to full effect. It’s another in the re-mastered series and offers extensive notes including the lady’s personal input, plus a bonus track.

However, I can’t help thinking that the material could have been stronger. 'Time' really is a so-so dancer that chugs along with quaint vocals, a nightclub tone and presentation. The soul flavoured 'The Boy I Left Behind' raises the stakes a little with its Stevie Wonder feel. Not surprising because that’s where Deniece became recognised as part of his Wonderlove group, before moving on to a solo career.

Her debut album 'This Is Niecy', produced by Maurice White and Charles Stepney, was released in 1976 and featured her runaway international hit 'Free', co-written by ex-Supreme Susaye Greene. This then is her second with Maurice only – sadly Charles died from a heart attack – and his loss was obviously felt. Having said that, the release holds her third UK hit 'Baby Baby My Love’s All For You'. Yet, even with Maurice White’s input, I just feel she could have done better. Which of course she went on to do.
Words SHARON DAVIS