Jermaine Jackson made his mark on this album with the number one single "Don't Take It Personal." With a percussive rhythm and the coolness of
Jackson's consoling intonation, this moderate number propelled its way to the top of the Billboard R&B charts -- one of only two songs to reach number one for the Gary, Indiana native (the other was "Let's Get Serious"). "Two Ships (In the Night)" and "I'd Like to Get to Know You" are also midtempo numbers which peaked at 21 and 27, respectively. The former, written and produced by David Conley and David Townsend of
Surface, is a dulcet composition with a steady flow complemented by trembling shades of a trombone. The latter has a mellow urban groove in which
Jackson releases a soulful plea. It was written by
Bernard Jackson, also of
Surface. While "Make It Easy on Love," a duet with
Miki Howard, has a sweet melody, the chorus is too busy and intense.
Jackson displays a soulful aggression on "So Right." Other excellent takes include "Rise to the Occasion," a duet with
La La, and "Next to You." [The 2012 reissue on Funky Town Grooves adds six extra tracks including multiple remixes of "Two Ships (In the Night)" and the title track.] ~ Craig Lytle