PATRICE RUSHEN ~ Now

Patrice Rushen ~ NOW (Or Any Other Time)!

This delightful funk/soul/pop recording opens up with the infectious "Feels So Real (Won't Let Go)" which was somewhat of a hit for Ms Rushen, or Baby Fingers as she will be forever known to diehard fans. Though it came after her dance smash (the often-covered/sampled) "Forget Me Nots", it was a testament that the artist was not "going anywhere" but forward. Known chiefly for her exceptional keyboarding skills (and these days a Musical Director of choice for television extravaganzas), Rushen is also a gifted vocalist with a unique breathy quality that stays pretty while not submitting to Madonna-like vapidness. There is art in her deceptively simple singing, superbly showcased on this collection of songs.

The groove that starts off "To Each His Own" reminds one of a Hall & Oats groove, but soon gives way to a great message: "...understanding is the real thing ..." Who says you cannot think while dancing?! I am STILL humming this one's chorous ...!

"My Love's Not Going Anywhere" is a sweeping mid-tempo adult "lullaby" about enduring love, while "Heartache Heartbreak" is a thoughtful piece on the downside of falling in love. This one is easy to relate to and consummately crafted. The honey-sweet melody is a keeper.

"Get Off (You Fascinate Me)" is a magnificently funky up-tempo number ... so very very funky!

"Superstar" is a tune about the kind of person now commonly known as a "Diva". The classical piano that pops up in the middle of the long workout of a song is simply incredible. Expert demonstration in the art of mixing. For a minute it is like two songs going on concurrently.

"High in Me" is heavenly, setting the mood for love.

Also noteworthy are the jams "Gotta Find It" and "Perfect Love" .

Bottom line: one of my favorite R&B albums.