Earl may come across as a pretty
Paula Abdul knockoff at first glance and listen, but her lone album proves she's of more substance and style. Admittedly, the first few sugar-coated cuts are quite Abdul-esque (especially "Romeo & Juliet" featuring the Wild Pair, which lent its sound to several of that singer's own records). But with catchy numbers like the midtempo "Do You Really Want My Love"; the chipper, Latin-spiced "Can't Go on This Way"; and the seductive, emotive ballad "Slowly," the set is proof that light-hearted pop-dance can indeed be fulfilling for the soul. Add to that
Earl's accessible, down-to-earth performances -- which are duly soulful and poppy -- and it's quite a fun listen. ~ Justin M. Kantor