Breakout

AMG Review of Breakout

Ron Wynn
All Music Guide

This session tried to strike a balance between commercial concessions and stylistic integrity. There were cuts with drum tracks and synthesizers, and others, like "War A Africa," with its simple rhythm backing, and a redone "Stepping Out Of Limbo," in which Cliff sounds almost as energized as on past numbers. He does include some strong political and message tracks, notably "Shout For Freedom," "I'm A Winner," "Peace" and "True Story." The final results are mixed; there's much to admire about the lyrics, and Cliff's voice hasn't lost much quality or fire, but this pales beside classic Cliff material.