October 19, 1976 BLACK INK 9
Critic’s Corner
by Stanley Brooks
Labelle needs no introduction because
they are the only black, female recording
group to go beyond mediocrity to express
their views on life, love, and politics.
On “Chameleon,” Labelle revives the
spirit, drive and dedication expressed so
masterfully on the “Nightbirds” Ip.
Chameleon has great songs and the best
singing by any female group in quite a
while. However, it is the songs that make
the album.
All the songs are long, averaging four
minutes, but the vast majority of the songs
are enhanced by the extensions. Four of
the six best cuts are Nona Hendryx
originals. These include “Who’s Watching
the Watcher,” “Come into my Ufe,”
“Chameleon,” and the sensual “Going
Down Makes Me Shiver.”
The two most outstanding non-Hendryx
tunes are Joe Crane’s “Get You Somebody
New” and Randy Edelman’s “Isn’t It a
Shame.” These two cuts, like all the rest,
are sung with a restrained but electric
energy that is uniquely Labelle. This is a
good one by the best vocal trio around.
For those who have not heard, Jermaine
Jackson is no longer a member of the
Jackson 5 musical group. He, unlike the
rest of his musical family, decided to
remain at Motown Records when
Columbia-Epic enticed them late last year
with lots of money.
Although he has played and sung for
years, “My Name is Jermaine,” signals
his debut as a solo performer. The album’s
executive producer is Berry Gordy and it
is obvious that this Ip is of major im
portance to the people at Motown.
The album itself contains songs of
several musical veins. It includes light,
contained disco, mellow ballads, love
songs and even an instrumental.
Highlights on the album include hi? new
single, “Let’s Be Young Tonight.” Other
pieces are “Stay with Me,” and “I Just
Want to Take this Time.” The most
arresting piece on the album is “My Touch
of Madness.” Jermaine sings each song
with conviction and feeling that transcend
his youth.
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