:: Dance With My Father

Luther Vandross

The intricacies of life, love and relationships are most soulfully and touchingly rendered by Luther Vandross in his latest album. It is an interesting album, as it seems to go in different directions as if Vandross is trying to appeal to a wide audience. There’s rap and hip-hop with Queen Latifah on “Hit It Again” and Foxy Brown lends her brassy voice in “If It Ain’t One Thing”. The collaboration produces a groovy R& B turn but hardcore R& B fans will object. Vandross’ duet with Beyonce Knowles on their take of “The Closer I Get To You” is vintage smooth R&B. Fans will recognise Stevie Wonder’s harmonica solo with Vandross in “Once Were Lovers”. It’s a signature performance from two R& B veterans. But Vandross is at his best when given space as he demonstrates with his smooth phrasing and artful interpretation of lyrics in “Dance With My Father” and “Apologise”. The former is truly heartfelt. The only letdown track in the album is Busta Rhyme’s languid interpretation of “Lovely Day”.