One must keep in mind that each JM collection is a completely independant affair, regardless of the fact that we've grouped them together at times so as to help understand her long career more easily in digestable chunks. WTRF is part of the 'I Love Larry' period for sure, but it contains more of the elements one would normally associate with a JM project than DED or CMIARS. Neither synth-laden (electric keyboards are used more sparingly) nor politically outspoken, the disc is quite personal with, what would have been considered at the time, a more modern and 'graduated' early 80's style. In the end, I think THAT is it's biggest flaw; it incorporates a radio-friendly stylization that is specific to the time period in which it was recorded as opposed to having that timeless JM quality that keeps her work a cut (or 5) above the rest. Even "Court & Spark," with it's very laid back and breezy 70's L.A. session sound has a refreshing element that still holds true 28 years on... You're going to get WTRF eventually, so why not do it now? Try and listen with an open mind, and perhaps the disc will suprise you. Try and contextualize as you listen...remember when it was made, JM's new love and marriage scenario...I think seeing it in a historical context will help make it more enjoyable. Repeated plays are necessary. -Chris NP: All in the Family on Nick@Nite
