La Toya Jackson

Boosted heavily by the presence of renowned players like Ray Parker, Jr., Patrice Rushen, Stevie Wonder and Emilio Castillo, LaToya Jackson became the fifth family member to record solo with this generally satisfying 1980 LP. She does best with uptempo numbers, with the straightforward romp "If You Feel the Funk" and the peppy "Save Your Love" serving as highlights. "If You Feel the Funk" is a well-chosen opener, with its enticing vocal arrangement, sturdy rhythm patterns and a memorable guitar solo from Parker seeping into the brain instantly; "Save Your Love" picks up the pace a little but is more concentrated melodically. Another primer is "Nighttime Lover," a softly seductive, simultaneously kinetic number produced by brother Michael. Otherwise, there aren't any other equally strong moments, though the snappy "Are You Ready," co-written and also recorded by Billy Ocean, is fairly impressionable. Vocally, Jackson doesn't have a lot of weight, but she has an obvious enthusiasm for the songs that comes through consistently. That factor, along with the strong cast of musicians and some memorable tunes, makes this an overall enjoyable set. The filler material is worth skipping past to soak in the finer moments. ~ Justin M. Kantor|