The '80s found
the Temptations doing work that was often potent and relevant. Their fortunes took an upswing with key lineup shifts and a renewed sense of purpose. Despite the important-sounding title,
Together Again isn't any type of grand reunion. This does feature the group at a crossroads, however. Their charismatic 1983-1987 lead singer, Ali "Ollie" Woodson, got canned, and
Dennis Edwards jumped back in his old slot. Instantly,
Edwards' return altered the chemistry of the group. On the 1984-1986 albums they seemed more like a unit. Here, the other
Temptations fade into the background due to
Edwards' booming voice.
Together Again shows that
Edwards' return was both fascinating and odd. The single releases are the best songs here. From the longing "I Wonder Who She's Seeing Now" and the fiery and flashy "Look What You Started," the group does get some traction. The '80s come bearing down on them with both "10 X 10" and "Little Things," and the guys barely make it out of the rumble.
Edwards' particular brand of firepower typifies the smooth and warmly anachronistic "Do You Wanna Go With Me" and the melodic dance tracks "I Got Your Number" and "Put Your Foot Down." Nothing is truly bad here, but
Together Again is marred by synth hardware, over-production, and lackluster songs. This isn't an essential release, but fans will find this near-miss quite captivating. ~ Jason Elias