Smokey Robinson - Essar (1984)

Smokey's a little bit off course here -- heading into a range of mellow pop soul styles that are clearly inspired by artists who were inspired by Smokey's own majestic solo turn in the 70s -- but who never manage to match his quality. And since Smokey's taking inspiration from the uninspired, there's also a quality to this set that feels the weight of that choice. The vocals are fine enough, but perhaps a bit too overly emotive on the ballads -- especially for smooth Smokey. The more upbeat numbers have a feel that's trying too hard for a crossover -- and even the title (which is a play on Smokey's initials, "SR") is kind of a deal-breaker. Titles include "Train Of Thought", "I Can't Find", "Gone Forever", "Close Encounters of The First Kind", "Little Girl Little Girl", "Girl I'm Standing There", and "Driving Thru Life In The Fast Lane". (Cover has a cutout notch.)pascal.gf.
tracks
And I Don't Love You
Train of Thought
I Can't Find
Why Are You Running From My Love
Gone Forever
Close Encounters of the First Kind
Little Girl, Little Girl
Girl I'm Standing There
Driving Thru Life In The Fast Lane