DREAM ON

The first 80's album by Duke has an ambitious title and star-filled line-up with high collective chops. Despite these prerequisites, it is the weakest album Duke has recorded to that time. The first thing to quickly notice is the lack of first-rate material and restrained instrumental playing. The sound turned into the 80's funk, losing Latin edges. Duke's voice is competent and I would say that it's for the first time when it overshadows his, by now, sparse, keyboard playing. What used to be his trademark - keyboard quality behind the R&B/funk material is now an insignificant quality. We hear a radio-friendly material, more punchy or emotional ("I will always be your friend"). Highlights include rythmically interesting "Positive energy" with outstanding vocals and instrumentation, perhaps the jazziest tune here.