Back at You

AMG Review of Back at You

Andrew Hamilton
All Music Guide

This Marlon Jackson production recorded in Jamaica hits on all cylinders. "Burning Desire," a Marlon and Tito Jackson song exploits the disco groove in an infectious way, the rhythm track, and trappings including Luther Vandross on backing vocals will set you right. I'm down with "She's Older Now," with its subtle reggae groove, Betty's sweet vocal, and the squalls that I never heard her do before; Vandross, again contributes behind the groove. "Be Your Friend," the third straight winner, shuffling beat and poly rhythms invite your best dance moves. Marlon duets with Betty on "I Promise You," a floater, accented by a strident sax, and romantic lyrics. An enthusiastic "Live, Love, Rejoice" continues the winning tradition, the title is sung like a cheerleading chant, with a tight guitar adding seasoning. Marlon, Randy, Tito, and Jackie Jackson wrote "Special Love," which Betty starts in an airy falsetto like Jackie Jackson's; the reggae rhythms' makes this work, and Wright's singing toughens as the tape rolls. "Show Me," "Gimme Just Another Try," and "Reggae This Way, " meshes American soul with Jamaican reggae.