ASHFORD, JACK
HOTEL SHEET (EVERLAND)
Originally issued in 1977 (with not one but two different label designs - and three issues if you include the version that included the hotel sheet!) this solid set is a blend of indie disco, ballads and soul gems.
`Hotel Sheet' is a popping disco funker, the standout soul cut is the uptempo modern soul `I'll Fly To Your Open Arms' while vocally Ashford sounds a little like David Ruffin on the sparkling `This Ain't Just Another Dance Song'.
The expansive, mid tempo `Shar' has a sultry feel while the skipping northern `Baby I'm So Glad' is a nice, upbeat number.
Will be a new discovery for many and a worthy one to investigate. "This album is dedicated to my mother, Thelma Ashford, and to my brother Albert.
Without their love and prayers, I could have never made it. I thank God for putting the light around me...
(And Cletus, we overcame the opposition after all)... Maria you were right."