Luther Vandross (CD)

R&B superstar Luther Vandross continues his incredible crossover success with the release of Luther Vandross. His historic partnerships with greats such as Aretha Franklin, Mariah Carey and Janet Jackson have helped keep Vandross in the tops of the charts. For Luther Vandross, he turns to two big names in music: Jon Bon Jovi for backing vocals, drum programming, keyboard programming and production. Babyface joins the party on guitar, backing vocals and production, too.

The first track on the disc, "Take You Out," has an honest groove that implies great confidence. Vandross asks for a date with true humility, pleading even, showing the utmost respect for the available woman. He has intelligence, courteousness and depth of emotion. He later sings with style and dignity,"I wouldn't let her get away / Not until she heard me say / . . . Can I take you out tonight."

"Like I am invisible" is about a boyfriends stifled desire for recognition, and its fulfillment, at the expense of a tough loss. "I wish you could see the way she looks at me / She don't keep me insecure or treat me lovelessly / She don't hide me from her friends when we have company / And she never ever makes me feel / Like I'm invisible." His new woman recognizes the greatness in him, helps him support his inner pride. Blues and gospel-tinged, "Like I Am Invisible" is a joy. It is a triumph of a man's self-hood, his pride.

"Say It Now" whistles us into into the world of disco. Where else will you hear a whistle reminiscent of YMCA? This disco-fied track is packed with energy for the dance floor. A gospel-joy infuses the track that admonishes lovers not to make the mistake that Vandross made. He pleas to all who will hear, "(It's all right) to say I love you out loud / (And it's all good) so don't you keep it inside / (Let it out) do it today no no no / Don't you wait, 'cause it just might be too late / To say I love you."

Also check out Cissy Houston backing Vandross on "Hearts Get Broken All The Time" and "Any Day Now." Get with the groove with the liberating and danceable "How Do I Tell Her." This is an excellent offering from Vandross. His incredibly elastic tenor sooths the soul and makes life seem warmer. What do you expect from a legendary R&B singer?

By Steffan L. Dye