Shake It Well (Expanded)

Shake It Well spawned two Top 20 hits on the R&B charts, the first being the gritty title track, led by Larry "Squirrel" Demps' innovative vocal delivery. The follow-up single, "Ocean of Thoughts of Dreams," an exquisitely mellow track, is inargubly the most enticing and comforting number on this excellent collection. With a sweet guitar introduction building next to a splendid string accompaniment, the tenor of Lenny Mayes takes center stage with precision. L.J. Reynolds displays his ever-impressive talent on the mid-tempo number "(I Like) Makin' You So Happy" and the slightly faster-paced "That Heaven Kind of Feeling." Reynolds is able to stretch his baritone to the level of a tenor, and instantaneously ignites with a surge of vocal energy. Ron Banks' falsetto on the mid-tempo "Spaced Out Over You" improves on a melody that is as enjoyable as the lead and background vocals. All selections showcase creative background arrangements. ~ Craig Lytle|

Shake It Well spawned two Top 20 hits on the R&B charts, the first being the gritty title track, led by Larry "Squirrel" Demps' innovative vocal delivery. The follow-up single, "Ocean of Thoughts of Dreams," an exquisitely mellow track, is inargubly the most enticing and comforting number on this excellent collection. With a sweet guitar introduction building next to a splendid string accompaniment, the tenor of Lenny Mayes takes center stage with precision. L.J. Reynolds displays his ever-impressive talent on the mid-tempo number "(I Like) Makin' You So Happy" and the slightly faster-paced "That Heaven Kind of Feeling." Reynolds is able to stretch his baritone to the level of a tenor, and instantaneously ignites with a surge of vocal energy. Ron Banks' falsetto on the mid-tempo "Spaced Out Over You" improves on a melody that is as enjoyable as the lead and background vocals. All selections showcase creative background arrangements. ~ Craig Lytle