Most of
B.B. King's studio albums of the '80s and '90s tend to de-emphasize his guitar playing and consist largely of forgettable originals and obvious attempts at pop hits. However, this set (which was cut in the studios) is on a higher level and is quite rewarding. Most of the tunes were co-written by pianist
Joe Sample and
Will Jennings, and the majority are quite catchy and memorable. Certainly it's easy to sing along with the refrains of "I'm Moving On," "Back in L.A." and "Roll, Roll, Roll." On this date
King usually overdubbed his guitar to play along with his vocals (somehow the interplay does not sound spontaneous) but it does not detract from the final results. The intelligent and philosophical lyrics fit
King's style very well and his voice is very much in prime form. Well worth acquiring. ~ Scott Yanow