You Might Be Surprised [Bonus Tracks]

When came out in 1985, wasn't having as many hits as he had enjoyed in the late '70s. The R&B landscape had changed a lot since the days of (1976) and (1978). knew that if he didn't want to be accused of sounding dated, he needed to appeal to the urban contemporary tastes of 1985, so on this album he manages to update his approach without being untrue to himself. The production (some of it by , some of it by himself) is high-tech and hip-hop-influenced -- synthesizers and drum machines are prominent, and there are few horns and no strings. But still sounds distinctive on material that ranges from the clever single and the funky to the playful title song (a duet with singer ). The opener has some / influence, but without obscuring ' own identity. This time, there are a few likable, if unremarkable, jazz/R&B/pop instrumentals, which include and (a tune that employs on tenor sax). isn't among ' essential albums, but all things considered, it was a respectable addition to his catalogue. ~ Alex Henderson