AMG Review of Back to Front

Steven McDonald
All Music Guide

After several years' hiatus, Richie is back with a greatest-hits package that includes three brand new tracks. Most of the expected material is there, including several Commodores tracks (reminding just how brilliant a ballad "Easy" really is), so fans aren't going to be disappointed. Of the three new numbers, "Do It to Me" is the standout, with "Love, Oh Love," practically a "Lady" clone, being fairly forgettable. Proof positive, all told, that even at his sappiest ("Endless Love"), Richie is a master of the mellow ballad.