R&B singer Will Downing's latest album's title, Classique, is a bit misleading. While he does cover tunes by such classic artists as Barry White and Marvin Gaye, he also includes his own compositions that compliment that 70s soul sound. In general the album pays tribute to this timeless vibe, but puts a smooth R&B veneer over the sound.

On cuts such as “Something Special” and “Ride,” Downing's vocals recall a slightly more reserved Teddy Pendergrass. “Ride” is inexplicably short—just when the groove gets started, the song ends. “Something Special,” the first single, features an infectious mid-tempo beat with retro horns accented by flutes and a subtly funky keyboard section. “More Time (Tic Toc)” showcases a laid-back shuffling tempo and jazz-like chord changes in the chorus.

Not surprisingly, Downing shines best on two soul covers: White's “I'm Gonna Love You A Little More Baby” and Gaye's “Baby I'm for Real.” While Downing's voice cannot match the deep, rich tones of White's, his sexy, passionate delivery comes close to the original. Not choosing an obvious cover, Downing tackles the Motown soul-soaked “Baby I'm for Real,” a duet with classic soul alum Phil Perry (formerly of The Montclairs) to bring additional old-school credibility to the remake. His cover of Gary Taylor's 1981 track “I Won't Stop” remains steeped in that Philly soul sound.

Downing's compositions pay further homage to 70s soul, such as “Just Think About It.” “Love Suggestions” and “Let's Make It Now” tend toward smooth jazz more than traditional R&B, but still continue the romantic tone of the rest of the album.

Interestingly, Downing does not limit himself to soul classics on Classique—his interpretation of Jan Crutchfield's “Statue of a Fool” (also covered by former Temptation David Ruffin in the 70s) demonstrates the close relationship between soul and country.

Article Author: Kit O'Toole

Kit O'Toole is a lifelong music enthusiast who maintains a music blog, Listen to the Band. In addition, she is the internet columnist and a contributing editor for Beatlefan magazine. She also holds an Ed.D. in Instructional Technology.

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