Greatest Performances collects recordings
Johnny Adams made for the Hep Me label in the early '80s. Although
Adams himself is in fine form, the production is too slick and has dated poorly. For many of the songs,
Adams simply sang to pre-recorded rhythm tracks, which gives the material a flat, processed ambience. Furthermore, the material is not suited to his style -- though he tries hard,
Adams simply can't breathe life into "Feelings." When he does have a song he can sink his teeth into, such as "The Greatest Love," the results are quite good. Unfortunately, he doesn't get enough of those kinds of songs on
Greatest Performances. ~ Thom Owens