Review

Deniece Williams: My Melody (BBR)

First released in 1981, this album was a huge success, passing gold status in the US of A alone. It also spawned a trio of moderate selling singles – 'It’s Your Conscience', 'Silly' and 'What Two Can Do.'

Cutting her teeth with Stevie Wonder’s Wonderlove, Deniece released her terrific debut album 'This Is Niecy' in 1976, from which the chart topper 'Free' was lifted. Her smash duet with Johnny Mathis followed, titled 'Too Much, Too Little, Too Late,' before she embraced the dance market – probably not willingly! She then met up with Thom Bell to work on this album.

Recording at the Sigma Sound Studios, the magic of that wonderful Philly Sound, has rubbed off on this project as Deniece works her way through her unique jazz/soul style that was so prevalent on her first album. With hand on heart, there’s not a poor track here. As the music and lyrics hug you, her voice melts and weaves against a sympathetic orchestra, comprising musicians like the mighty Bob Babbitt, Bobby Eli and Thom Bell himself. Loads of written notes to accompany the music notes! Beautifully timeless.
Words SHARON DAVIS