LIGHT MELLOW - AOR Groovin' & Breezin' [Cool Sound Japan] (2000)

"Light Mellow" is a compilation series assembled by various Japanese labels featuring artists from their back catalog all revolving around smooth AOR / West Coast music.
So there's Light Mellow compilations made by Warner Bros Japan, BMG Japan, Universal Japan, etc, but I think the best of all it's the first appeared in 2000, initiated by specialized AOR label Cool Sound, a little company legendary for their pristine remasters of long forgotten albums.

That first CD was titled "LIGHT MELLOW: AOR Groovin' & Breezin' [Cool Sound Japan version]", including some hard to find true gems for the first time on CD, remastered, plus a couple of previously unreleased tracks.
Among the great artists featured here we have Sneaker, Heat, Paul Bliss, Bruce Gaitsch feat. Jason Scheff, King Of Hearts (Tommy Funderburk), Joseph Williams and Tony Scuito with his classic 'Island Nights' but in its impossible to find Alternate Mix.

However the real pearls on this release are the 2 previously unreleased tracks: one being 'Heart Don't Change My Mind' by master Robbie Buchanan featuring the awesome lead vocals of the late Warren Wiebe, and Greg Guidry's 'Goin' Down' in a newly re-recorded version of this tune exclusive to this CD.



Of course out of print now, "LIGHT MELLOW: AOR Groovin' & Breezin' [Cool Sound Japan version]" is a much sought after album not only for its quality and collectors item status, but mostly because the CD was strictly prohibited to be sold to foreign customers due legal reasons.
Smooth stuff of the highest quality. Rare.


01 - Heat
Don't You Walk Away
02 - Bruce Hibbard
Never Turnin' Back
03 - Rosie feat. Lynn Pitney
There's a Song In It Somewhere
04 - Robbie Buchannan (feat. Warren Wiebe)
Heart Don't Change My Mind
05 - Greg Guidry
Goin' Down
06 - David Diggs
Lonely Weekend
07 - Paul Bliss
How Do I Survive
08 - Tony Scuito
Island Nights (Alternate Mix)
09 - David Lasley
You Bring Me Joy
10 - Sibling Revelry
Consider the Greatest Love
11 - Kazu Matsui Project
Is That the Way to Your Heart
12 - Bruce Gaitsch feat. Jason Scheff
Letting Go
13 - Michael Gonzales
Love is Forever
14 - Sneaker
Did You Order One
15 - Joseph Williams
I Didn't Do It
16 - King Of Hearts
Lovin' Arms


LIGHT MELLOW AOR Groovin' & Breezin' [Cool Sound Japan]
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VON GROOVE - Von Groove [Japanese Edition] (1992)

Founded by Canadian vocalist / drummer Michael Shotten and bass player Matthew Gerrard (a songwriting duo contributing songs for Triumph among others) plus Croatian born guitarist simply called Mladen, VON GROOVE born in Gerrard's own basement recording studio in the early Nineties.
The tapes they recorded sounded so great that A&M Records signed the band and decided to release the material without modifications.

However A&M wanted some 'sure fire' potential single hits, so Von Groove agreed to re-record 4 of the songs in Los Angeles with super-drummer Deen Castronovo (Bad English, Hardline and now in Journey) and famous (and talented) Richie Zito producing.


Simply put, "Von Groove" is one of the greatest Melodic Hard Rock records ever made. Killer songs, superb performances and brilliant production turns this CD a classic for the genre.
Someone asked for a HQ Cdrip so here it is from the Japanese edition, including 2 bonus tracks and full art.
A Must !


01 - Once Is Not Enough
02 - Better Than Ever
03 - Can't Get Too Much
04 - Once In A Lifetime
05 - Every Beat Of My Heart
06 - House Of Dreams
07 - C'Mon, C'Mon
08 - All The Way Down
09 - Arianne
10 - Slave To Sin
11 - Love Keeps Bringing Me Home
12 - Smaug
13 - Sweet Pain
Japanese bonus tracks;
14 - Soldier Of Fortune
15 - King Of Your World (Live)

Michael Shotton - lead and backing vocals, drums
Matthew Gerrard - bass, backing vocals, keyboards
Mladen - guitars, mandolin, backing vocals
Deen Castronovo - drums
Norm Arnold - percussion
Scotth Humphrey - keyboards, digital edition
Tommy Funderburk, Al Langlade, Grant Cummings - backing vocals




VON GROOVE - Von Groove [Japanese Edition] (1992)
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OFF COURSE - Back Streets Of Tokyo (1985)

Re-posted as requested 'cos it's really hard to find (and good)

Regarded by the Japan press as one of the best native Westcoast AOR groups, OFF COURSE have recorded a handful of albums only released in Asia.
"Back Streets Of Tokyo" is their 'more international' effort, produced & mixed in Los Angeles with PETER WOLF (Chicago, Nielsen-Pearson, Jack Wagner) in front of the table to make them sound more 'Western'. All songs were carefully arranged in the L.A. Session style with some greats involved such as Tom Kelly or Tommy Funderburk (also providing backing vocals).



"Back Streets Of Tokyo" is a smooth record were melodies abound, you have nice guitars, pretty good choruses and an overall polished product, wrapped by a pristine mix and production.
Reissued on CD in 1994 - only Japan, again - it has become a hard to find collectors item.


1. Fool (What Does a Fool Do Now)
2. Second Chance
3. Love's Determination
4. Her Pretender
5. Eyes In The Back Of My Heart
6. Melody
7. Love's On Fire
8. Endless Nights

Kazumasa Oda: vocals, keyboards
Hitoshi Shimizu: bass
Jiri Oma: drums, percussion
Kazuhiko Matsuo: guitars
Peter Wolf: keyboards, arrangements, production / mix
Tom Kelly, Tommy Funderburk: backing vocals, arrangements


OFF COURSE Back Streets Of Tokyo HQ
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KADOMATSU T's SONGS FROM L.A. - The Ballad Covers Collection (2004)

Japanese multi-instrumentalist, composer, arranger and orchestrator Toshiki Kadomatsu has been very popular in Asia since the early '80s creating music for other artists and recording his own albums in a Westcoast / AOR / Pop style, with many American musicians as session players.
During the '90s, and due the musical climate in the US, top artists from the genre found refugee in the Japanese market, always eager for delicate sounds and melodies.

Then Kadomatsu had the idea to re-work his most popular Japanese songs to be performed by US musicians, and moved to California to record this "KADOMATSU T's SONGS FROM L.A. - The Ballad Covers Collection" after the other volume including more poppy songs, previously featured here on the blog.
The best L.A. session cats were part of the project, including superb guitarists Jay Graydon & Michael Landau, alongside other monsters like Brett Raymond, Gino Vannelli, Tom Keane, Abraham Laboriel and more.



As on the previous volume the vocalists involved are top notch too: again Joseph Williams (Toto), Chicago's Jason Scheff and the great Tommy Funderburk, but now featuring the likes of Richard Page (Mr. Mister) and talented Brett Raymond doing lead vocals apart of playing keyboards and programming.
All singers did the lyric adaptation to English language and Kadomatsu the arrangements to fit the new versions. As you could imagine, this is a bunch of excellent material spotlessly clean produced and rich in smooth melodies all over.
Delicious CD only released in Japan, now out of print.


01 - Gino Vanelli - Still I'm In Love With You
02 - Michael North - Midnight Girl
03 - Jessica Sheely - You're My Only Shinin' Star
04 - Richard Page - Desire
05 - Lea Herman - August Rain
06 - Jason Scheff - Distance
07 - Henry Kapono - It's Hard to Say Good-Bye
08 - Presley Tucker - Mermaid Princess
09 - Brett Raymond - Let Me Say...
10 - Tommy Funderburk - Ramp In

Jay Graydon: Lead & Rhythm Guitars
Michael Landau: Lead & Rhythm Guitars
Toshi Onikuza: Lead & Rhythm Guitars
Tak Akimoto: Lead & Rhythm Guitars
Grant Geissman, Abraham Laboriel: Acoustic Guitars
John H. Wayne, Jim Stout: Bass
Todd Sorensen: Drums
Gino Vannelli: Piano
Brett Raymond: Keyboards & Programming
Tom Keane: Keyboards
Michael Binikos, Tak Akimoto: Keyboards, Programming
Marco Tessier: Programming
Richard Beaudette: Sax
Larry Lunetta, Andy Suzuki, Alex Ailes: Horns
Jason Scheff, Joseph Williams, Marilyn Martin, Tom Keane, Margaret Linn, Mary Linn, Michael North: Background vocals


KADOMATSU T's SONGS FROM L.A. Ballad Covers Collection
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KADOMATSU T's SONGS FROM L.A. - The Pop Covers Collection (2004)

Japanese multi-instrumentalist, composer, arranger and orchestrator Toshiki Kadomatsu has been very popular in Asia since the early '80s creating music for other artists and recording his own albums in a Westcoast / AOR / Pop style, with many American musicians as session players.
During the '90s, and due the musical climate in the US, top artists from the genre found refugee in the Japanese market, always eager for delicate sounds and melodies.

Then Kadomatsu had the idea to re-work his most popular Japanese songs to be performed by US musicians, and moved to California to record this "KADOMATSU T's SONGS FROM L.A. - The Pop Covers Collection", and another volume but focused on ballads.
The best L.A. session cats were part of the project, including superb guitarists Michael Landau and Tim Pierce, alongside other monsters like Brett Raymond, CJ Vanston, Tom Keane, Vinnie Colaiuta, Abraham Laboriel and more.
And the vocalists involved are top notch too: Joseph Williams (Toto), Starship's Mickey Thomas, Mike Reno (Loverboy), Chicago's Jason Scheff, the great Tommy Funderburk... just to name some.



All singers did the lyric adaptation to English language and Kadomatsu the arrangements to fit the new versions.
As you could imagine, this is a bunch of excellent material spotlessly clean produced and rich in smooth melodies all over.
Delicious CD only released in Japan, now out of print.


01 - Kadomatsu T - Sea Line
02 - Jason Scheff - I Don't Want Let You Go Again
03 - Mickey Thomas - Never Touch Again
04 - Tommy Funderburk - Take It Away
05 - Will Champlin - City Nights
06 - Joseph Williams - Secret Lover
07 - Patrice Rushen - Take Me Far Away
08 - Buzz Feiten - After 5 Crash
09 - Pauline Wilson - Summer Babe
10 - Mike Reno - Can't You See

Michael Landau: Lead & Rhythm Guitars
Tim Pierce: Lead & Rhythm Guitars
Ray Fuller: Electric Guitar
Grant Geissman: Acoustic Guitars
Brett Raymond: Keyboards, Programming
CJ Vanston: Keyboards, Programming
Tom Keane: Keyboards, Programming
Mark Portmann: Keyboards
Tom Washington: Piano
John Pena, Abraham Laboriel, Leland Sklar: Bass
Curt Bisquera, Abraham Laboriel Jr.: Drums
Vinnie Colaiuta: Drums, Percussion
Andy Suzuki: Tenor Sax
Wayne Bergeron. Larry Lunetta, Alex Ailes: Horns
Jason Scheff, Joseph Williams, Bernie Barlow, Bill Champlin, Tamara Champlin: Background Vocals


KADOMATSU T's SONGS FROM L.A. Pop Covers Collection
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V.A. - Voices (1987) [Japanese CD reissue COOL-089]

Christian (CCM) albums / artists sometimes overwhelm secular listeners with their religious lyrics. But many of them have released wonderful albums musically speaking, especially in the during the '80s and early '90s.
In the case of this Various Artists compilation called "Voices", the result is excellent.

"Voices" was a charity project that brought together the cream of the CCM AOR scene, performing songs specifically composed for this album released in 1987 via the legendary Christian label Myrrh and conducted & produced by Mike Mierau (Petra, Halo, Mastedon, Guardian, etc.).
Mierau's liner notes words:
"There are certain singers which voices are instantly recognizable. The minutes you hear them, you know they're one of your favorites. Here on this record are ten new songs by ten great singers. It's a collection of amazing talents."

The main focus of this album are, obviously, the voices. We have beautiful performances by the likes of the exquisite Tommy Funderburk, Bob Carlisle, John Elefante, Rick Riso, etc, all highly respected singers from the AOR / WestCoast golden age.
There's smooth arrangements, elegant instrumentation by renowned session musicians and well crafted songs. My favorite is John Elefante's track, penned with his bro Dino, and of course, the mighty Tommy Funderburk, one of the greatest AOR singers of all time, forever in my top 5.

Fortunately reissued on CD for the first time some years ago by specialized Japanese label Cool Sounds (but largely out of print), "Voices" is a little gem, nowadays a true rarity.
Very Nice.


01 - Tata Vega - In Your Light
02 - Bob Carlisle - Heaven Is Waiting
03 - Bryan Duncan - Come as You Are
04 - Matthew Ward - Light of the World
05 - Howard McCrary - In Your Presence
06 - John Elefante & Kim Boyce - Helpless
07 - Rick Riso - Heaven Must Have Sent You
08 - Bob Carlisle - Teach Me How
09 - Benny Hester - Then You Call My Name
10 - Tommy Funderburk - Lift Up My Voice

Guitars: Michael Hodge, Terrance Elliot, Dino Elefante
Bass: John Pierce, Michael Hodg
Keyboards: J. Schreiner, James Raymond, John Elefante
Drums: Rick Thomson
Programming, Overdubs: Rick Thomson, Mike Mierau
Sax: David Hlebo, Warren Ham
Horn Section: The Martin Brothers
Orchestration: Bill Kilpatrick
Produced by Mike Mierau, Rick Thomson & John Elefante


V.A. Voices (1987) [Japanese CD reissue COOL-089]
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JOSEPH WILLIAMS - Joseph Williams [Complete Edition +3] Cool-092 (2002)

Son of one of the most important film score composers in Hollywood's history, JOSEPH WILLIAMS started his musical career in the seventies singing singles, backing vocals as sessionist and recording countless demos.
John became famous, of course, as Toto's lead singer since 1986, but he recorded his first, self-titled solo album in 1981-82.

"Joseph Williams", the LP, is a faithful representative of the L.A. session / AOR Westcoast sound of its era, featuring excellent musicians like Michael Landau, Steve Lukather, Robbie Buchanan, Jay Gruska and many more.
Strangely, it wasn't pressed on CD until Japanese label Cool Sound reissued the album in 1998, on one of their first efforts as 'record reissue' company. It was augmented by themselves in 2002, with this "Joseph Williams [Complete Edition +3]" including three bonus tracks.



Although not reaching the full vocal potential he developed later in Toto, this 1981 recording shows Joseph Williams colourful set of pipes and great sense for melodic harmonies.


01 - What Is She Hiding
02 - That First Night
03 - Takin' It
04 - One More Chance
05 - I Didn't Do It
06 - This Girl
07 - Something Special
08 - Nothing's Lost
09 - Make Some Time
10 - Anything You Say (bonus track)
11 - You Forever (bonus track)
12 - I Didn't Do It [Alternate Take] (bonus track)

Vocals: Joseph Williams
Keyboards: Robbie Buchanan, David Garfield, Michael Omartian
Guitars: Steve Lukather, Michael Landau
Bass: Jay Gruska, Dean Cortez Moog
Drums: Mark T. Williams
Percussion: Lenny Castro
Sax: Steve Tavaglione
Horns: Jerry Hey, Chuck Findley, Larry Williams, Jim Horn
Background Vocals: Richard Page, Steve George, Tommy Funderburk




Joseph Williams [Complete Edition +3]
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AIRPLAY - ST (1980) Japanese remaster

Well, this is really simple to describe: none AOR collection is complete without AIRPLAY sole release from 1980. And this site not deserves to be called AORheaven without it.
A gem concocted by the genius of Jay Graydon, David Foster and the incredible Tommy Funderburk, featured as backing session musicians almost the entire Toto; Jeff Porcaro, Steve Lukather, David Hungate, Steve Porcaro among other beasts like Mike Baird on drums or Bill Champlin doing backing vocals.



This remastered, Japanese 30th Anniversary Edition Blue-spec CD, needless to say, really makes justice to this awesome record. Mini LP replica with all the original artwork.
As said, essential in your collection.


01 - Stranded
02 - Cryin' All Night
03 - It Will Be Alright
04 - Nothin' You Can Do About It
05 - Should We Carry On
06 - Leave Me Alone
07 - Sweet Body
08 - Bix
09 - She Waits For Me
10 - After The Love Is Gone

Tommy Funderburk: vocals
Jay Graydon: guitar, vocals
David Foster: keyboards

Jeff Porcaro, Mike Baird: drums
David Hungate: bass
Steve Lukather: add. rhythm guitars
Steve Porcaro, Pete Robinson: synthesizer
Ray Parker, Jr.: additional rhythm guitars
Jerry Hey, Gary Grant, Steve Madaio & more: horns
Bill Champlin, Tom Kelly, Max Gronenthal: backing vocals




AIRPLAY 1980 remastered
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V.A. - E35, Let's Sing J-Pop In English (2008)

In upcoming posts will be featured (and briefly reviewed) many albums originally requested and fulfilled into the "Request & Fill Corner" section, but not available anymore.

Let's start with the beautiful Japan-only 3CD compilation "E35, Let's Sing J-Pop In English".
As the title indicates, these are covers of Japanese Rock&Pop hits performed by well known AOR / Westcoast stars.
All these songs were recorded between 1991 / 1994, only appeared in Asian V.A. albums as the 'Love Stories' series, "Goody's" and many other rarities.
Some tracks are boring (particularly the ones sung by a few unknown vocalists), that's normal in huge compilations.

But who cares when you have awesome songs never published outside Japan and performed by such luminaries as Jason Scheff, Tommy Funderburk, Joseph Williams, Peter Beckett, Bobby Kimball, Jay Graydon and many more.
Remarkable is the inclusion of one of the few songs officially published/recorded as lead vocalist by the late Warren Wiebe, a gifted singer that never got the chance to release his own solo album.

"E35: Let's Sing J-Pop In English", compiled by the specialized Japanese label Avex, fetch exorbitant prices, as all imports.
Do not miss this unique opportunity...


CD 1
01 - Jason Scheff - Say Yes
02 - Ned Doheny - Suddenly (Love Story)
03 - Tommy Funderburk - Imademo Anata ga Sukidakara
04 - Joseph Williams - Get Back In Love
05 - Peter Beckett - Ai Wo Tomenaide
06 - Stephen Bishop - Donna Tokimo
07 - Milini Khan - Sekaijuu no Dareyori Kitto
08 - Rachel Ham - Overnight Sensation
09 - El DeBarge - Kimigairudakede (KomeKome Club)
10 - Jessica Sheely - You're My Only Shinin' Star
11 - Tata Vega - Seasons

E35 - 1



CD 2
01 - Joseph Williams - Dear My Friend
02 - Adrian Peritore - Get Crazy! (Princess, Princess)
03 - Richard Page - Gloria
04 - Anna McMurphy - Break Out!
05 - Gigi Worth - Kiss Me
06 - Joseph Williams - Christmas Eve
07 - Jason Scheff - Yah Yah Yah
08 - Douglas Getschall - Kanashimi Ha Yuki no Youni
09 - Kelly Keagy - Yakusokunohashi
10 - Boddy Kimball - Red Nose Reindeer
11 - Douglas Getschall - Saboten no Hana
12 - Warren Wiebe - True Love

E35 - 2



CD3
01 - Boddy Caldwell - Answer
02 - Marilyn Martin - Tooi Machi No Dokokade
03 - Jason Scheff - You're the Only...
04 - Natalia - Time Goes By
05 - Joseph Williams - Sayonara
06 - Jay Graydon - Oasis
07 - Marilyn Martin - Tatoe Tooku Ni Hanaretetemo
08 - Joseph Williams - Doushiyoumonai Bokuni
09 - Ronnie Spector - Kazetachinu
10 - Jason Scheff - Over And Over
11 - Frank Sinatra Jr. - Departures
12 - Gino Vannelli - Still, I'm In Love With You

E35 - 3



ENJOY

RUSS TAFF - Medals (1985) Japan reissue

After recording several albums with The Imperials, Russ Taff started a solo career in 1983.
Taff is one of the most recognizable voices in Christian music. His trademark rich, emotion-drenched vocals were formed since his teens.
"Medals" is his second album and the best. With this recording Russ entered in the secular charts, thanks to the quality of the material on offer and the neutral lyrics.
The 'who's who' of the L.A. top session musicians is here: Dann Huff, Michael Landau, Nathan East, Robbie Buchanan, Tommy Funderburk, Bill Champlin...

There's no weak song on this typically 'contemporary' eighties album.
The awesome "Vision" opens with a synth path which maintains the track until the great chorus arrives. This song was later recorded by Chris Eaton for his album of the same title.
The outstanding "I'm Not Alone" is penned by canadian songwriter genius Paul Janz (and later recorded by himself as a semi-ballad with the title 'Close My Eyes'). Ruff's version is typically mid '80s, being the single of this album. Love It.

Title track has a poppy AOR feel so '80s, with a climatic aura and synthetic sound, reinforced by the clean guitars and the keyboards.
There's a rockier approach on "Not Gonna Bow" (great guitars) and the melodic and catchy "Rock Solid".
We have room for emotional ballads with "Here I Am" and the beautiful mid-tempo "Silent Love".
On "I've Come Too Far" Ruff goes pop mixed with a bit of funk and gospel. Check the short but terrific guitar solo by Michael Landau.

"Medals" won the Contemporary Album of the Year Dove Award and was Grammy nominated.
Expect tons of great harmonies here, superb performances and top notch production.
This album is not so hard to find, but maybe yes this Japanese 2001 CD reissue ripped at maximum quality.
Highly Recommended.


01 - Vision
02 - I'm Not Alone
03 - Medals
04 - Not Gonna Bow
05 - Here I Am
06 - I've Come Too Far
07 - Silent Love
08 - How Much it Hurts
09 - Rock Solid
10 - God Only Knows


Vocals: Russ Taff
Guitar: Dann Huff, Michael Landau, Paul Jackson Jr.
Keyboards: Robbie Buchanan
Bass: Nathan East, Neil Stubenhaus
Drums: Paul Leim
Percussion: Lenny Castro
Saxophone: Larry Williams
Synths: James Newton Howard, Rhett Lawrence
Backing Vocals: Tommy Funderburk, Bill Champlin, Carmen Twitty, Tata Vega, Harry Browning, Lynn Nichols, Tamara Champlin




RUSS TAFF - Medals (1985) Japan reissue

MARTEE LeBOW - Crimes Of The Heart (1986)

Martee LeBow is a recording artist, singer/songwriter and keyboardist born in NY state.
In her teens, as Martee Lebous, she recorded her first album "The Lady Wants To Be A Star" in the mid of the seventies.
While playing with her band, LeBow has maintained a successful career as live & studio back-up vocalist, singing commercial jingles / soundtrack songs, and collaborating with many songwriters.

By 1985, a major label singed Martee a solo artist.
Her debut "Crimes Of The Heart" is a mini-lp with only five songs, but what songs!
This is without a doubt one of the best female AOR albums of the eighties.
Opener, tiltle track "Crimes Of The Heart" (penned by maestro Jeff Silverman) is a terrific semi-midtempo rockin' AOR gem. From the first note you will be amazed by Lebow's trained and powerful pipes.
"Stranded In The Moonlight" is pure AOR bliss. Check the songwriting quality (wrote by herself). This isn't an ordinary song by any means. Great arrangements.

"Love Just Ain't Enough" is a perfect ballad, with a soulful performance (reminds you Fiona but thousand times better). The guitar solo (the unmistakable master Dan Huff) is simply perfect. Why this song isn't became a hit on par with, let's say, Heart, is a total mystery (or label inepts).
"One More" is a marching melodic rocker with a great riff / keyboards. Maybe the best example of Martee's quality vocals. Awesome tune.
What? "Hearts Of Stone" is a Bruce Springsteen cover? Well, the result is magical. A fantastic midtempo with a bluesy touch yes, but beautifully AOR-arranged. Martee shines again here.

This mini album is pure gold.
Fantastic vocalist, excellent songwriting (Martee on 3,4), the best session royalty you could imagine (check personnel) and terrific production by the expertise Robbie Buchanan.
Never released on CD, this is a very good vinyl rip (not mine) but with many clicks and noises typical from the old LP's.
Requested by my fellow reader and friend troynew (a top contributor to these pages as well), I have cleaned the files for you listening pleasure.
A Must Have.


1 - Crimes Of The Heart
2 - Stranded In The Moonlight
3 - Love Just Ain't Enough
4 - One More
5 - Hearts Of Stone


Martee LeBow - Lead vocals
Dan Huff - Guitar
Neil Stubenhaus - Bass
Robbie Buchanan - Keyboards
Mike Baird - Drums
Tommy Funderburk, Steve Lively - Backing Vocals



MARTEE LeBOW - Crimes Of The Heart

THE FRONT (Funderburk) - ST (1984)

Easy request to fill - I am a Big fan of Tommy - .
If you still don't know who is Tommy Funderburk, check the 'Labels' section, there's many posts about him on this blog.

Around 1983 Tommy met drummer Bob Wilson from the group SEAWIND, they formed THE FRONT and recorded this self titled album the following year.
This is classy '80s material, but not your typically AOR album.
First of all, drums are preponderant than other instrument, although the keyboards and guitars provide the essential embellishment to the songs.
And of course, Tommy (angelical) vocals shine as usual.
The Front, as all Funderburk eighties projects, is a christian-related band, but lyrics don't bother if you aren't a believer.

On "It's Hard To Take" the vocal sustain is incredible. A track with quirky keyboards and strong ambience.
"Holy Light" has more strong guitars and a terrific melody / chorus. This a great tune, play it twice and then tell me.
"All Under Him" and "Tonight" (wonderful lyrics) are calm, westcoast tracks with a smooth sound.
"King Of Glory" has very good vocal arrangement with a very late seventies style, "The Promise" is very modern for its era (reminds me '80s A. Parsons), while "Silent Night" is a stylized midtempo AOR with elegant guitars.
One of my favorites of the pack is "How Long", a killer marching AOR. Seems simple at first glance, but this is a serious monster AOR song with a massive guitar solo by Dan Huff.

The album release was followed by a U.S. tour in 1984 and a European leg in 1985.
As bonus, I added a very rare bootleg recording from the band's performance at the Koinonia Festival, Sweden. The sound is more than decent (I have edited and enhanced all tracks).
On the European tour the line-up was Funderburk on vocals, Wilson on drums, Seawind alums Buddy Nuanez and Ken Wild on bass and guitar, and John Andrew Schreiner on keyboards.

"The Front" was published by a minor label named Refuge Records. This is a re-release by the mythical christian record company Benson. I don't know if it was remastered, but this CD sounds much better than the original release.
Very Good.


01 - It's Hard To Take
02 - Holy Light
03 - All Under Him
04 - King Of Glory
05 - The Promise
06 - Silent Night
07 - Tonight
08 - How Long

Live @ Koinonia Festival, Sweden, 1985
01 - It's Hard To Take
02 - How Long
03 - All Under Him
04 - The Promise
05 - Tonight
06 - On The Boulevard
07 - Christ Of Passion


TOMMY FUNDERBURK: Vocals
BOB WILSON: Drums & Percussion, Keyboards
LARRY WILLIAMS: Keyboards
DAN HUFF: Guitars
DENNIS BELLFIELD: Bass
TOM KELLY: Backing Vocals (4, 7)
LINDA McCRARY: Backing Vocals (3)
TATA VEGA: Backing Vocals (3, 4)
A. CROUCH, P. St. JAMES: Backing Vocals (3)



THE FRONT (Funderburk)

KING OF HEARTS - ST 1989 (1999)

Requested by my friend Juba...

The group KING OF HEARTS born during Richard Marx's "Repeat Offender" recording sessions in 1988.
In fact, this is a duo comprising the talents of multi-platinum songwriter, guitarist, producer, engineer Bruce Gaitsch (Richard Marx, Chicago, Michael Bolton) and Tommy 'the-angels-voice-like-no-other-on-the-face-of-earth' Funderburk, supported by a dream team: Kelly Keagy (Night Ranger) on drums and vocals, George Hawkins (Kenny Loggins band) on bass, Bill Champlin (need to say!) on keyboards and vocals and more.

KING OF HEARTS has released 4 albums, all in Japan, Sweden and Germany only.
Particularly this one, their debut, recorded for a major US label in 1989 but rejected, never was published until 1999 by a japanese small company.
And what a gem it is.
Marketed erroneously as a westcoast album (although contains some tracks in this style and vibe), this is pure AOR guys.
Not the swirling-keyboard type, just pure American AOR. And rocks.

I can't highlight one track, all are really good. But 'Remember Me' ... OMG... super-duper first class AOR tune.
Tommy shines everywhere and Gaitsch guitar work is perfect (there's rumors that master Jay Graydon also play guitar, uncredited).
Attention Nigh Ranger fans, many of you do not know the fact that Kelly Keagy did lead vocals here on 'Smack Dab', 'Under The Gun' and 'Was It Good For You', and in 'Everyday' with Funderburk.
No fillers in sight, great song after great song, superb musicianship, terrific songwriting and top notch production.

This request was easy to fill because KING OF HEARTS is one of my favorites AOR acts ever. Yes, it's that GOOD.
High quality rip with scans.
A MUST HAVE, no self-respecting AOR fan should be without it.


01 - Working Man
02 - In So Many Words
03 - Don't Call My Name
04 - Smack Dab
05 - Remember When
06 - Hold On To Love
07 - Under The Gun
08 - Lovin' Arms
09 - Was It Good For You
10 - Everyday
11 - King Of Hearts


Tommy Funderburk: Vocals
Bruce Gaitsch: Guitars
Kelly Keagy: Drums, Vocals
George Hawkins: Bass, Vocals
Additional Musicians:
CJ Vanston: Keyboards
Bill Champlin: Hammond B3, Vocals
Timothy Schmit and Randy Meisner: Backing Vocals

Produced by David Cole & Bruce Gaitsch


A MUST HAVE

WHAT IF - What If (1987)

Tommy Funderburk has been one of the most hired main / background singers since the early 80's ; Airplay, Boston, Stan Bush, The Cult, Tim Feehan, Richard Marx, Van Stephenson, John Waite, Whitesnake and more and more...

Around 1983 Tommy met drummer Bob Wilson from the group SEAWIND, they formed THE FRONT and recorded a cool self titled album in '84 that was followed by a U.S / European tour in 1985.

By 1987 Funderburk and Bob Wilson reformed the band and brought in Larry Williams on keyboards and saxophone, changed name to WHAT IF and released this gem on a major label.

What can I say about this great album... I am Funderburk's unconditional fan.

His high multi-tone vocals, perfect modulation, turns into gold everything it touches. Tommy's performance here, as usual, is perfect.

"Perfect World" written by Glen Burtnik (and later recorded by ALIAS / Freddy Curci solo) is a winner of course, but there's much more on offer here.

Just listen "One Look" vocalization... WOW

"Ride The Hurricane" has an awesome guitar work an "Love Is A Fire" beats you with a killer tempo, even the sax is great and strong.

All tracks are outstanding and production First Class.

Add to the package the 'who is who' in the AOR session world: maestros Michael Landau and Dann Huff on guitars, Larry Klein (pumpin' bass sound!), Casey Young, Paulinho Da Costa, Bill Champlin, Bob Carlisle, etc.

Ripped from the japanese CD (brilliant sound) @ maximum quality.

Highly, Highly Recommended.

01 - What If

02 - If This Is Love

03 - Perfect World

04 - One Look

05 - Ride The Hurricane

06 - She Rocked The World

07 - Love Is A Fire

08 - When Right Is Wrong

09 - Turn And Walk Away

Tommy Funderburk : LEAD Vocals

Larry Williams : Keyboards, Sax

Bob Wilson : Drums

Michael Landau : Guitars

Dann Huff : Guitars

Jakko M. Jakszyk : Guitars

Larry Klein : Bass

Paulinho Da Costa : Percussion

Casey Young : Synthesizer

Eric Persing : Synth, Programming

Bill Champlin : Backing Vocals

Bob Carlisle : Backing Vocals

WHAT IF

V.A. - Voices (1987)

Christian (CCM) albums / artists sometimes overwhelm secular listeners with their religious lyrics.
But many of them have released wonderful albums musically speaking, especially in the eighties and early '90s.
In the case of this V.A., the result is excellent.

"Voices" was a charity project that brought together the cream of the CCM AOR scene, performing songs specifically composed for this disc.
Released via the legendary christian label Myrrh and conducted & produced by Mike Mierau (Petra, Halo, Mastedon, Guardian, etc.).
Mike's liner notes words:
"There are certain singers where voices are instantly recognizable. The minutes you hear them, you know they're one of your favorites.
Here on this record are ten new songs by ten great singers. It's a collection of amazing talents offering their voices to God."

The highpoint of this album are, obviously, the voices.
Strong performances, beautiful nuances and smooth arrangements, mostly between Light AOR and WestCoast.
My favorite is John Elefante's track, penned with his bro Dino, and of course, the mighty Tommy Funderburk, one of the greatest AOR singers of all time, forever in my top 5.

Recommended.


01 - Tata Vega - In Your Light
02 - Bob Carlisle - Heaven Is Waiting
03 - Bryan Duncan - Come as You Are
04 - Matthew Ward - Light of the World
05 - Howard McCrary - In Your Presence
06 - John Elefante & Kim Boyce - Helpless
07 - Rick Riso - Heaven Must Have Sent You
08 - Bob Carlisle - Teach Me How
09 - Benny Hester - Then You Call My Name
10 - Tommy Funderburk - Lift Up My Voice


Guitars: Michael Hodge, Terrance Elliot, Dino Elefante
Bass: John Pierce, Michael Hodg
Keyboards: J. Schreiner, James Raymond, John Elefante
Drums: Rick Thomson
Programming, Overdubs: Rick Thomson, Mike Mierau
Sax: David Hlebo, Warren Ham
Horn Section: The Martin Brothers
Orchestration: Bill Kilpatrick
Produced by Mike Mierau, Rick Thomson & John Elefante







V.A. - VOICES

THE KAZU PROJECT feat C. FARREN & T. FUNDERBURK - Standing In The Wings (1985)

Born and raised in Tokio, after high school KAZU MATSUI moved to Los Angeles, studying music & philosophy.
Since the early eighties, he begins a musical venture as THE KAZU MATSUI PROJECT, recording & producing many good 'Adult Contemporary Music' albums, recruiting awesome session players like Steve Lukather, Robben Ford, Jeff Porcaro, Abraham Laboriel, Bill Champlin, Jennifer Warnes to name a few.

For his 5th recording, Kazu has called the best of the best: Chris Farren, Tommy Funderburk, Andrea Robinson, Dann Huff, Bruce Gaitsch, Greg Bissonette (check the personnel).
Chris Farren steals the disc with deep and soulful interpretations.
And Funderburk... simply one of the best voices in AOR history. In my top 10 of all time.
The songs: awesome pure eighties AOR fm-radio style.

I can't recommend you this album enough, a pleasure from start to finish.
One bad thing only: too short.
If you don't like this, you don't like AOR music.
Japan only release. Vinyl restored by myself.
A Must Have.
Highly Recommended.


1. Don't Look Back (lead vocal:Chris Farren)
2. Standing In The Wings (lead vocal:Tommy Funderburk)
3. That Girl (lead vocal:Chris Farren)
4. Desire [Short Road To Heaven] (lead vocal:C. Farren)
5. Doctor O'Mein (lead vocal:Tommy Funderburk)
6. Head Above Water (lead vocal:Tommy Funderburk)
7. Into The Nightfall (lead vocals:C. Farren & A. Robinson)


Produced by Kazu Matsui

Personnel:
Lead Vocals: Chris Farren, Tommy Funderburk, Andrea Robinson
Guitars: Carlos Rios, Dann Huff, Bruce Gaitsch, I. Noro, G. Geissman
Keyboards: Steve Wood, Martin Lund, B. Finch, Gery Stober
Pianos: Randy Waldman
Bass: Jimmy Johnson, Leon Gear, David White, Fredy Washington Jr.
Drums: Vince Colaiuta, Moyes Lucas, Gregg Bissonette
Percussion: Mike Fisher, Ed Mann
Shakuhachi (japanese flute): Kazu Matsui
Backing Vocals: Maxi Anderson, Marlena Jeter, Phillip Ingram, Darryl Phinnesee


ENJOY

NORIYUKI MAKIHARA - Songs From L.A. (2007)

Noriyuki Makihara is a top japanese male pop artist, in the early 90's debuts as performer/songwriter in a local TV show similar to American Idol.
His songs ranked high in the Asian charts, and has managed to maintain a high level of popularity for almost 20 years.
Many has been translated into other languages, like the ones featured in this compilation, some kind of an 'occidental tribute'.

La crème de la crème of the WestCoast scene was recruited for the recording, like Tommy Funderburk (AIRPLAY), Bobby Kimball & Joseph Williams (TOTO), Jason Scheff & Bill Champlin (CHICAGO), Tom Keane, Michael Landau, Tim Pierce, etc.

Production and performances are top notch, a relaxing album to enjoy gifted voices and light westcoast/AOR/pop songs.
Japan release only.


1 - Bobby Caldwell: Answer
2 - Tommy Funderburk: Darling
3 - George Duke: Yes
4 - Jason Scheff: Love Letter
5 - Robbie Dupree: Under The Doogwood Tree
6 - Kim Carnes: It's Clear Sky Again Today
7 - Joseph Williams: You're My Angel Falling...
8 - Justin Andres: 'Cause You're My Treasure
9 - Bill Champlin: North Wind
10 - Timothy Durly: Home Sweet Home
11 - Bobby Kimball: Red Nose Reindeer


Keyboards: Tom Keane, Timothy Drury
Guitars: Michael Landau, Tim Pierce, Michael Konan
Bass: Lee Sklar, Noel Freeman, Justin Andres
Drums: Stephen Litrownik, Larry Williams
and more...



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OFF COURSE - Back Streets Of Tokyo (1985)

Regarded by the Japan press as one of the best
Westcoast-Pop groups, this band have recorded a handful of albums only released in Asia.
This is their more international effort, produced and mixed in Los Angeles with PETER WOLF in front of the table, to make them sound more 'Western'.
Melodies abound, nice guitars, pretty good choruses.
Round and polished sound, clean mix and production.
Reissued on CD in '94.
Only Japan, hard to find.

1. Fool (What Does a Fool Do Now)
2. Second Chance
3. Love's Determination
4. Her Pretender
5. Eyes In The Back Of My Heart
6. Melody
7. Love's On Fire
8. Endless Nights

Kazumasa Oda: vocals, keyboards
Hitoshi Shimizu: bass
Jiri Oma: drums & percussion
Kazuhiko Matsuo: guitars, harmonica
Peter Wolf: keyboards
Tom Kelly, Tommy Funderburk: backing vocals


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KADOMATSU T’s Songs from L. A. - The Ballad Covers Collection (2004)

Requested by a friend, this hard to find disk outside east-side-of-the-world.
Toshiki Kadomatsu is a well known name in Japan.
Multi-instrumentalist, composer, arranger, the man has a magical touch.
Several albums released in Asia, mostly westcoast oriented.
Kadomatsu called the genre's greatest "names" for these recordings of he's original material.
Delicate and ethereal, spotlessly produced.
His songs charged life with this monsters voices / musicians (check the personnel).
Some westcoast / AOR for the soul...

If you like it, try to find a copy...and BUY IT

1. Still, I’m In Love With You (vocals: Gino Vanelli)
2. Midnight Girl (vocals: Michael North)
3. You’re My Only Shinin’ Star (vocals: Jessica Sheely)
4. Desire (vocals: Richard Page)
5. August Rain -It’s Our Pure Hearts- (vocals: Lea Herman)
6. Distance (vocals: Jason Scheff)
7. It's Hard To Say Good-Bye (vocals: H. Kapono, E. Atuaia)
8. Mermaid Princess (vocals: Presley Tucker)
9. Let Me Say... (vocals: Brett Raymond)
10. Ramp In (vocals: Tommy Funderburk)

* Guitars: Jay Graydon, Michael Landau, Grant Geissman
* Bass: Abraham Laboriel, Jim Staut, John H. Wayne
* Drums: Todd Sorenson
* Keyboards: Tom Keane
* Sax: Eric Marienthanl
* Horns: Andy Suzuki
* Background Vocals: Jason Scheff, Joseph Williams, Marilyn Martin

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TOMMY FUNDERBURK - Anything For You (2005)

Vocalist Tommy Funderburk may not have the most recognizable name, but to die-hard devotees of the AOR scene, he is somewhat of a vocalist God.
His work in the band King Of Hearts is some of his best loved work – that project also featured Kelly Keagy (Night Ranger) and Bruce Gaitsch (Richard Marx).
He also sang lead vocals on the Boston album Walk On.
And I should add some of his studio credits with artists such as Motley Crue, Whitesnake, Richard Marx, Rick Springfield, Starship, REO Speedwagon, Coverdale/Page,Blue Murder, among 1000 others, making their backing vocals sound fantastic.
Tommy has one of those angelic AOR voices that you could listen to for hours. His slightly higher range and blissfully melodic tone is perfection for this genre. It's only a shame he doesn't make more records as a frontman.
One of my fav vocalists of all time, strongly recommend this to fans of James Christian, House Of Lords, REO Speedwagon, etc, and melodic rock/AOR fans with taste.
To me, one of the best albums in my collection...
If you like it, BUY IT.

1. Learning How To Love 4:21
2. Remember Our Love 4:53
3. Anything For You 5:11
4. Only You Can Give Me 4:03
5. To Say You Love Me 4:21
6. You Got The Love 4:22
7. Skin 3:33
8. The Garden 3:49
9. Second Chance 4:02
10. Say A Little Prayer 5:05

Tommy Funderburk Vocals
Fabrizio V. Zee Grossi Bass, Keyboards, Producer
JM Scattolin Guitar
Phil Brown Guitar
Rob Vanni Guitar
Amy Rothstein Keyboards
Joachin Cannaiuolo Drums
Biggs Brice Drums


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