Introducing The Hardline According To Terence Trent D'Arby

I don't know what to think of this so I'm giving it 2

This is very Steve Winwood-coded. Some good tunes on here, lots of slappa da bayaass, some shite too though.

Nothing really wrong with this album. Good voice, great melodies. It's just low key boring.

It's fine, kinda sounds like Disney music though (with a hint of Prince). Mid 3.

Some songs are beautiful, overall I liked the sound of the album, I loved the singer's voice and the soul and blues feeling. I would listen again to some parts, but other songs where somewhat plain. 3/5

Not for me. Gospel but R&B a bit. I like the funny gossip about him comparing himself to the Beatles, great PR strategy.

I think the tension between the two things Terence Trent D’Arby was trying to do with this album are what makes it interesting. He obviously wanted to be an artist but I think he was also trying to be a pop star. His trying to do both those things gives this album more complexity than straight ahead formulaic pop and makes it more fun than just some pretentious jagoff trying to make art. Not everything he tried here worked but this is a good album and worth listening to.

Another album that was part of the soundtrack of my teenage years. Rammed full of classic tracks, I'd be surprised if you could listen to this and not nod or tap along to at least 3 or 4 of the tracks. The odd thing about Terrence Trent Derby is that River Trent doesn;t even run through Derby..... (shamelessly stolen from Harry Hill!). No, the odd thing is that this album was his zenith really, you kind of expected him to become another Michael Jackson or Prince etc, but he just kind of fizzled away.

What a voice!

not bad but not for me

Wishing Well is iconic. The rest of the album is rich and of the 80s, but nothing sounds as great as Wishing Well feels.

Difficult to get past the dreadful 80s production on this one.

Pound shop prince.

So a couple of hits buried within an over hyped and overplayed 80s album is enough to make the list? I don't think so. At best this is a historical footnote to the 80s.

Alright, I suppose. Bit dull, though.

I got sick of this when I was younger as my dad overplayed it in our car. Listening back to today, whilst the production does sound dated, there was enough to keep me entertained. Cursed nostalgia! 😝

Apart from the one song I had heard before, as a kid, nothing really sparked my interest...

Afrobeat funk and soul album that is a solid debut from an artist I am not familiar with. Some good tracks on this, but not quite special. Also someone I just found out shares a birthday with me.

Ça groove. Je ne connaissais pas assez pour faire le lien avec la chanson Sign Your Name.

Ça sonne beaucoup comme du Michael Jackson à mes oreilles. Quelques belles harmonies de voix vers la fin, notamment avec Untitled. Assez dansant en général !

Whatever

This didn’t hit me with the greatest first impression, but it quickly got much better. I remember hearing ‘Wishing Well’ back in the day. 3/5 not really my style today but still decent

I know TTD’s “Wishing Well,” but I don’t know any of his other songs. However, yesterday, I had Sade’s Diamond Life, and I think this album might make a good spiritual companion. I find the late eighties to be such an interesting time for pop music. As hip-hop reached a wider audience, some pop artists embraced its influences, while others tried to stay more traditional in their sound. Due to that, I find that when it comes to late eighties pop artists that I’m not terribly familiar with, I never really know what I’m going to get. If this album is as bop-infused as “Wishing Well,” I think I’ll be in for a treat! As much as I enjoyed “Wishing Well,” I didn’t care too much for this album. There were a few songs on this album that stood out to me as pretty strong pop songs, but overall, I felt like TTD was throwing all of the popular sounds and production techniques at the wall to see what stuck, and for me, it resulted in an album that sounded really dated, and I got pretty bored with it. On the songs that I did enjoy, it was the musical sound that drove my enjoyment, and I didn’t really find the lyrics to be particularly interesting or well-written. I know I criticized this album for sounding dated, but there were times when that dated sound was really fun. “Wishing Well” is great because of its dance-worthy rhythms and TTD’s unique vocals. The drums sound great, and the keyboards and bass guitars are excellent too, and even that little whistling sound on the chorus is fun. It’s just a great pop jam. “If You All Get to Heaven” was good too. The keyboards and the drumming were outstanding, and I loved the lower register of the overall sound. It felt like something that Quincy Jones could have produced, and I mean that as a high compliment. “If You Let Me Stay” had some great keyboards and vocals, making the first three tracks of this alum really strong. After those first three songs though, the only thing that really stood out to me was the keyboards on “Let’s Go Forward.” It reminded me of that early nineties R&B sound of groups like Boyz II Men, and I thought it was a beautiful song. Now that I’m thinking about it, “Sign Your Name” was pretty good too, and I enjoyed its softer sound. Before I typed out this review, I thought I’d be giving this album two-stars, but I’m realizing that the even though this album had some glaring weak spots, its best moments were really strong and enjoyable, and it probably sits more middle-of-the-road with me, and I think it deserves a three-star rating. This album was an interesting slice of late eighties pop music, and even though not all of it lands, it’s very unique and well produced.

This is a very good album, his voice is great and the vibe of the whole album is just great.

Incredibly funky, I like the album's vibe.

Decent sound, not something I would purposely put in but I wouldn't skip past it.

Budget Michael Jackson. Couple of decent tracks but nothing outstanding. 5/10

I have mixed feelings about this one.  Wishing Well is a great song and Sign Your Name is ok, but the rest is a bit bland for me.  I hear too much 80s electronic drums/drum machine and synth bass to be taken too seriously. Liked Songs Added Wishing Well

Funky, soulful, 80's greatness. Solid production, great voice. Just awesome

Not as bad as I feared. It was surprisingly ok. As yet untitled was nauseatingly pretentious but other than that it was a reasonably easy if unmemorable listen with a couple of really good tracks. He’s basically Prince but without he sex and humour.

“Wishing Well” is a helluva song. I never took that much to the rest of the album, though, and that remains true. The 80s-trappings on the album are something. Something too much, I mean. And *I* love the 80s. But, here, they too often get in the way of stellar vocals.

Whereas this was his most successful album and I love it, it's not my favourite TTD, but those main singles are perfection "wishing well", "dance little sister", "sign your name" and "if you let me stay". I feel the album tracks improved with the next 3 records to give better overall experiences but this will of course be the one held most in peoples consciousness

Prima

I LOVE THIS GUY!!! I raided my parents record collection two years ago and found this. No clue who he was, just thought I love the green tint and the way the inner sleeve looked. I then realised I had found a gem which no one in my circle had discovered. I was then led down a rabbit hole regarding his change in career, change in name, how poorly he was treated by the music industry. This guy was a true star, who ultimately was trashed when his second album didn’t have the same commercial success. Shame, because you can’t help but wonder what he could’ve become. A beautiful album though, one which brought me and my mum closer!

Technically strong - the vocals, the musicality, the energy. However, I find the album a bit stylistically saturated. Instead of being 80s influenced its almost smothered by it. Like an 80s blanket had been popped over the top of the record. Not that I dont enjoy some 80s music but its just a bit overly steeped in that production aesthetic. Kind of like a Michael Jackson / Prince cover act. Well, cover act is harsh, but the delivery leans so much into that style it does occasionally edge towards imitation rather than originality. I am being perhaps a little too critical. There are rawer moments, screams that cut through the polish. The chap is clearly very talented and the album is great at doing what it does. Favourite track - Sign Your Name. 7/10

His debut album. Rock / Soul. This is plastic 80s music with awful production. D'Arby has a good voice but everything else on this album is not so good. Of the one hundred and sixty seven albums I've listened to so far, the track Rain is a low point. Sign Your Name is the best track but everything else is meh.

I k ow people who love this album. Im not one of them but it's good enough. Better than i could so

Bisschen Soul und R&B "Signe your name" ist der bekannteste Hit

Appreciate the introduction. Recognized Wishing Well when it came on - likely never would have come across this otherwise. Probably a 3.5 for me - better than average though I doubt I’d reach to put it on.

Funky, soulful, 80's greatness. Solid production, great voice.

I was familiar with the beautiful "Sign Your Name", but not with the rest of this Funk Rock / Soul album and I liked it.

It's a very typical 80s album, what more can I say. Wishing Well is a great song though, I found it to be really catchy.

I'm going out on a limb and giving this 5*. I really like it and it sounds good.

I had forgotten about Terence Trent D'Arby. Actually quite talented.

This was really good. I'd only ever heard the hit singles from the album, but I really enjoyed the rest of it as well.

Wouldn't normally listen to this, but really enjoyed it.

I recall Sign Your Name as a staple of the 1980s, and I think it holds up pretty well. Seven More Days, I think, is the most interesting track here, though I’m not sure I like it, exactly. Terence Trent D’Arby/Sananda Maitreya has a beautiful voice, but overall the album is boring.

Unfortunately I couldn’t quite get into this. Clearly a good singer but this is very 80s in a way that didn’t work for me

Great songs, great voice

Everyone is going to have music that is anathema to them and I think that’s what I’ve stumbled across here. I just can’t abide by it. I may well have heard Hardline According to… when I was younger because it makes me feel like a bored child listening to another generation’s music. Some elements are weirdly dated, kind of kooky 80s pop soul, other moments are a little bit more probing, serious and quite strained. Neither of these modes work together. None of it clicks in my head.

Today’s album does very little for me, but isn’t bad as such, it’s getting some kind of 2 from me though

Think of an artist that mixed up together all the good stuff that soul and R&B gave us in the 60s 70s and 80s in one unique style, with paying the due respect to the old folks that made history back then, and not reinventing the wheel or something like that, just doing some good old music in a fresh way... Before you can say "Bruno Mars", I say "You're nuts". 5 stars (I was gonna give it 4, but the cover of Who's loving you stoled me a whole star)

Liked a few tracks but wasn't that into it. Wishing Well slaps

Enjoyed this more than I expected, some serious bangers on here

Loved reading about this guy, sounds insane. Great music though, I love the 80s

Can see the talent here but not my thing. Who's Loving You the highlight if I had to write one. Maybe depends on the atmosphere.

The first song had me not expecting much, but this really broke out after that

Would not buy.

not bad

Not unpleasant

Pathetic that he thinks he makes better music than the Beatles.

4/5. This is like easy going funk music for the most part. It feels safe and there is a new artist energy to the instrumentation. It seems like he is wanting to be innovative but not stepping past the barrier of sounding like other artists. Fortunately, his inspiration slaps and he creates an album of original songs that still sound great today. Are there better 80s albums with the same energy? Sure, but because of the freshness of these songs due to my exposure, it gives me an enjoyable listening experience. There are definitely better songs than others here so not perfect, but still pretty great. Best Song: If You Let Me Stay, Seven More Days, As Yet Untitled, Who's Loving You

I don't think I've heard anything from this artist or album, despite recognizing the cover. Post-listen: I definitely recognized "Wishing Well" with that unique whistling-like chorus, assuming that was the "big" single here. There are some other hits, such as "If You Let Me Stay", and the more sensual "Sign Your Name" The rest of the album was mostly enjoyable. Everything sounds very much of contemporary rock, with a twist of soul and some slower ballads mixed in. It's almost uncanny how much this guy resembles Prince.

Wasn’t sure about this at first but it was really fun to listen to! Great vocals over some solid, poppy instrumentation

this was nice!

Introducing The Hardline According to Terence Trent D’Arby was a completely new listen for me, and I was genuinely curious to see what it had to offer. Right from the start, I was hooked. The opening two tracks, If You All Get to Heaven and If You Let Me Stay, are easily the standouts, setting the tone with energy and charisma. Add Wishing Well into the mix, and you’ve got a fantastic opening run that I found myself returning to throughout the day. This is a seriously strong debut. The album moves confidently across genres, blending rock, soul, and R&B into something vibrant and full of personality. At times, it carries echoes of Prince and Stevie Wonder, but with D’Arby’s own flair. His voice is outstanding, and the fact that he played most of the instruments himself makes it even more impressive. Overall, it’s a great slice of 80s music—stylish, bold, and packed with talent. Favourite track: If You All Get to Heaven Least favourite track: Lets go forward was a bit dull. Album artwork: Standard 80s cover

Being an american-born musician and going to the UK to find success is an indication of the quality of music. Four songs in, I was hoping I was eight songs in so I'd be more than halfway through. It sounds like Foreigner, put Michael Jackson out as front man and they were tasked with making elevator music. 1.8 outta 5

Full of spirit, I'll give it that. Not the most memorable songs and too 80s for me but it's got a little pep in its step.

Going with a 3 TTD is talented no question. Just listen to the acapala “As Yet Untitled” which is a testament to the talent. The hits sounded a little of the 80’s for my liking.

Pretty funkin good! Wasn’t in my wheelhouse back in the day, but this old dog has learned a few new tricks. Spin it!

I can understand why this album probably made an impact back in the 80s, but I personally think it aged horribly. It’s basically soul and contemporary R&B with that cliché 80s sophistipop feel. The production and style just scream “product of its time,” and not in a good way. Overall, this just isn’t for me, and I don’t see myself ever coming back to it.

Has its moments. 3.5 stars

The only actively good song on this album was the last one, but then you realise that is was originally a Jackson 5 song and it all sort of makes sense why you like that one so much…

Very fun, very funky

It's very 80s and I thought it was a woman first, but it doesn't suck

Quite enjoyable

This was nice. Nothing more, nothing less. Simpsons: No

This is a really good album. I can't decide if ‘If you let me stay’ or ‘sign your name’ is my favourite track.

I liked it I guess? Not incredible but there's some quality here and he's obviously talented.

Bueno

# In-Depth Review: *Introducing The Hardline According To Terence Trent D'Arby* by Terence Trent D'Arby ## 🎵 Overview *Introducing The Hardline According To Terence Trent D'Arby* (1987) is the debut album of American-born singer-songwriter Terence Trent D'Arby (now known as Sananda Maitreya). Released amidst the synth-pop and hair metal dominance of the late 1980s, the album stood out for its fusion of soul, R&B, rock, and pop, anchored by D'Arby's audacious vocal talent and charismatic persona. It achieved monumental commercial success, selling over one million copies worldwide in its first three days and topping charts in the UK, Switzerland, and Australia . Despite its acclaim, the album also drew polarized reactions due to D'Arby's provocative self-promotion and the perceived arrogance that overshadowed his artistry. --- ## 📝 Lyrics and Themes ### Lyrical Content The album's lyrics blend personal introspection, social commentary, and romanticism. D'Arby explores themes of love, redemption, spirituality, and identity, often with a poetic flourish. Tracks like *If You Let Me Stay* and *Sign Your Name* delve into vulnerability and commitment, while *If You All Get to Heaven* critiques religious hypocrisy and societal violence . The a cappella piece *As Yet Untitled* is a raw meditation on identity and heritage, with D'Arby lamenting: *"Shall I tell my children if they ask of me / Did I surrender forth my right to be?"* . ### Themes - **Love and Desire**: Tracks like *Sign Your Name* and *Let's Go Forward* explore intimacy with a sensual, earnest tone. - **Social Critique**: *If You All Get to Heaven* challenges organized religion and war, reflecting D'Arby's disillusionment with his gospel upbringing . - **Self-Identity**: The album grapples with authenticity and legacy, themes that foreshadow D'Arby's later transformation into Sananda Maitreya . --- ## 🎶 Musical Style D'Arby's sound is a retro-inspired yet modernized blend of soul, funk, and rock. His vocal delivery draws clear inspiration from icons like Sam Cooke, Otis Redding, and Prince, but he injects a unique flair with his raspy falsetto and dynamic range . The instrumentation combines live bands with synthetic elements, featuring: - **Funky Basslines and Percussion**: *Dance Little Sister* and *Wishing Well* are driven by infectious rhythms reminiscent of James Brown . - **Soulful Balladry**: *Sign Your Name* stands out for its minimalist arrangement and emotive delivery . - **Rock Influences**: *I'll Never Turn My Back on You* incorporates guitar-driven energy . - **A Cappella Experimentation**: *As Yet Untitled* showcases D'Arby's vocal virtuosity without instrumental backing . --- ## 🎛 Production Produced primarily by Martyn Ware of Heaven 17, the album boasts a polished yet organic sound. Ware's influence is evident in the crisp, layered arrangements that balance synthetic elements with live instrumentation . Key production highlights include: - **Dynamic Mixing**: Tracks like *Wishing Well* feature lush harmonies and saxophone accents that enhance the song's urgency . - **Vocal Emphasis**: D'Arby's voice is the centerpiece, often multi-tracked to highlight his range and emotional intensity . - **Retro-Modern Fusion**: The production nods to 1960s soul while incorporating 1980s pop sensibilities, though some critics argue the era-specific synth sounds date the album . --- ## 📈 Influence and Legacy ### Cultural Impact The album emerged as a defining record of the late 1980s, bridging the gap between classic soul and contemporary pop. Its success challenged the dominance of synth-driven acts and reaffirmed the appeal of vocal-driven R&B . D'Arby was hailed as a successor to Prince and Michael Jackson, though his subsequent career failed to sustain this momentum . ### Legacy - **Critical Recognition**: Included in *1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die* . - **Artistic Influence**: D'Arby's fearless genre-blending inspired later artists like Lenny Kravitz and D'Angelo . - **Name Change**: In 2001, D'Arby adopted the name Sananda Maitreya, symbolizing a spiritual rebirth and rejection of his earlier persona . --- ## ✅ Pros and Cons ### Pros 1. **Vocal Brilliance**: D'Arby's voice is powerful, versatile, and emotionally resonant, evoking comparisons to soul legends . 2. **Hit-Driven Tracklist**: The album includes multiple chart-toppers like *Wishing Well* and *Sign Your Name*, which remain iconic . 3. **Lyrical Depth**: Tracks like *If You All Get to Heaven* and *As Yet Untitled* offer substantive social and personal commentary . 4. **Production Quality**: Martyn Ware's crisp, balanced production allows the music to feel both timeless and of its era . ### Cons 1. **Dated Sound**: The 1980s production aesthetics, including gated reverb and synths, may feel outdated to modern listeners . 2. **Ego-Driven Narrative**: D'Arby's controversial claims (e.g., calling the album "the most brilliant debut of the decade") overshadowed the music for some critics . 3. **Inconsistent Flow**: While strong individually, some tracks (e.g., *Let's Go Forward*) lack the momentum of the hits . --- ## 🏆 Conclusion *Introducing The Hardline According To Terence Trent D'Arby* remains a landmark debut that captures the audacity and talent of its creator. Its fusion of soul, rock, and pop, coupled with D'Arby's vocal prowess and provocative lyricism, ensures its enduring appeal. However, the album is also a product of its time, both in its strengths and limitations. While D'Arby's career trajectory shifted dramatically after this release, the album stands as a testament to an artist unafraid to challenge conventions—even at the cost of his own commercial longevity . For listeners seeking a masterclass in 1980s soul-pop, this album is essential. For those exploring music history, it offers a fascinating case study of artistry, ego, and the fleeting nature of fame.

This is okay but it kinda just feels like a Michael Jackson knockoff.

Reading about the identiy change of Terence 'Trent' D'Arby to what he's referred to now (Sanandra Maitreya) was pretty interesting. I didn't hate this record, it's just not really my vibe. Respectable, though!

The cover reminds me of Tracy Chapman. The vibe is like a mix of Stevie Wonder and Tina Turner (with hints of Michael Jackson and a little Bonnie Raitt at times). As Yet Untitled felt like and ode to Sam Cooke, which seemed slightly out of place until he followed it up with a Smokey Robinson cover. This one kinda had everything. I dug it.

solid album. terence trent d'arby has a really nice, soulful voice and it is definitely highlighted here. it does get a bit slow in the middle for my taste, which does drag it down a bit. but there's also some nice stuff on here too. i really liked the classic soul cover of 'who's loving you.' a mixed bag but ultimately i lean a little more positively over true neutral on this one.

I get so bored

Had heard of TTD but never listened to him - pretty good stuff! Does a lot of the instrumentation himself (not sure on this debut album or not but generally following this).

Well… lots of thoughts. I’m mostly glad I can pinpoint where some of Twin Shadow’s slow jams came from.

Incredible debut. I was 16 when it was released, feels like last week.

A couple really good songs, no really bad songs, and a classic to finish. 4 stars or B.

Really fun, upbeat, a breeze to get through The singles are superb. Wishing well very very good.

Well. I wasn't expecting this to be this good. I avoided this with professional zeal when I was in my teens, but apparently the circumstance of being 17 does not qualify you as a seasoned music critic... Still a 3. Would listen again.

1.5 stars Forgettable. It was like off brand Prince. It wasn’t terrible. But I just didn’t care.

Dislike.

A decent listen.

Fucking perfect. I played this a billion times on a lousy cassette tape on release. God he was electric! The songs kick with vibrant energy and spirit; his voice crackles and shrieks and roars with soul. Not a flat track on the album. I still play it and it never disappoints.

3 1/2 stars pretty great but not everything

Surprised by this! Knew very little about TTD but I should have... quite soulful and energetic 4

Meh. Not a lot to get excited about here. Some ok sounds, but just ok. A 2.5 or a 3.

If You Let Me Stay Wishing Well Sign Your Name

Якийсь британьский Майкл, в окремих піснях на межі байту. Досить приємний альбом зі звуком епохи. Скоріше сподобався, але додати собі щоб переслухати пізінше не захотілось.

Думаю що в нас цього тіпа всі знають переважно через пісню Delicate. Я власне теж. Але не так вже й давно, під час своєї улюбленої розваги - перегляду телеканалу "мтв 80х", побачив його кліп на Sign Your Name. Здається ще якраз під іншим ім'ям. Хороший артефакт того часу, як і багато альбомів в цьому списку.

Okay

I did not use a private session for Spotify on this one. I remember when this album came up and my mind went to "Wishing Well", but after listening to it I now recall all the different great songs on this album. Lots of fun songs with a good beat, some R&B songs, and I like Terence's voice.

Na Lenny Kravitz nog meer studentenmeisjesmuziek uit de jaren tachtig. Softpop met een soulrandje, in z'n soort goed gedaan en het luistert prima weg, een hitje erbij, wat wil je nog meer. Niet heel verrassend, maar liever dit dan al dat punkgeblèr.

Typisch jaren '80 geluid. Al doet de zang-opzet (en een intro) me soms denken aan Michael Jackson, en dan juist niet zijn jaren '80 tijd. Meer de zeikerige jaren '90 Michael. En naast de basis-klank uit de jaren '80 komt ook alvast een R&B gevoel doorschemeren. Ook iets wat net iets later populair werd. Hij zette dan toch alvast voorzichtig een voetje richting de toekomst. 3.5 ster.

Vooraf bestempel ik deze muziek als een verzameling verschrikkelijke oorwurmen uit de slechtste periode van de jaren '80. Het toppunt van het overmatig gebruik van synths en drumcomputers, al ver nadat het experimenteel of hip was. Dit was het hoogtepunt van commercialisering van de muziek. En dat hoor je ook op deze plaat. Al valt me wel op dat ondanks alles het wel prima liedjes zijn. Het is vaak wel ter ondersteuning van zijn overigens uitstekende stem. Die stem is wat hoger en het heeft wat weg van een hese vrouwenstem. Zijn vrouwelijke collega's gooien er vaak te veel oehs en aahs door en dat voorbeeld volgt terence ook te vaak. Het is een beetje too much, al die ad libs. Of opeens een schreeuw of een gil. Toch kan ik dit wel prima luisteren. De ondersteuning is poppy en funky. De gitaartjes zijn soms Nile Rodgers-achtig. Ik kan dit toch wel een aardige 3 geven.

Liked it

At least 2 things were born in the 80s. Me, and this album

3.5

I confess I was pleasantly surprised to see this album appear in this list. Terence Trent D’Arby’s debut album impresses with his remarkable vocal range and strong song writing, though its ambitious mix of genres sometimes leads to inconsistency and a lack of focus. While the 1980s production is evident, it complements his voice and does not detract from the album’s lasting appeal. Overall, it’s a very good album. An occasionally uneven release that remains engaging throughout. I rate this album between 3 and 4 stars, so accentuating the positive 4 stars. Would I listen to this album again? Yes. Would I buy this album? I did. 1. "If You All Get to Heaven" – 4 2. "If You Let Me Stay" – 4 3. "Wishing Well"  – 4 4. "I'll Never Turn My Back on You (Father's Words)" – 3 5. "Dance Little Sister" – 4 6. "Seven More Days" – Great chorus. - 4 7. "Let's Go Forward" – 3 8. "Rain" – 3 9. "Sign Your Name" – Fantastic song. - 5 10. "As Yet Untitled" – 3 11. "Who's Loving You" – Good cover but not really needed. - 4 Total - 41 Average - 3.73

I did not expect to love this as instantly off a first listen as I did here. Never heard of the artist formerly known as Terence Trent D’Arby or Sanada Maitreya, though I recognize hearing “Wishing Well” somewhere. You hear hints of Prince a Michael Jackson influences but in a way that amalgamated into something so unique and funky. Kind of more spiritual than either MJ or Prince, intentional or not (though it has to be intentional, right?) No skips whatsoever, it’s all fantastic.

Kinda cool

Just didn’t perk my ears, weird sounds

Please, no more. 2 cause I guess this appeals to some people and it's not outright shiz, just can't stomach it.

The Good: We are introduced to The Hardline The Bad: They are never really featured… The Ugly: Neither is Terence Trent D’Arby… What a lovely album this is, and what wonderful memories it always reminds me of… to be young, dumb, and full of …. TTD came along in a period when the New Romantics / New Wave were slowly fading away, Madonna was Queen of Pop, and Prince and Michael Jackson were the contenders for the King spot… Upstart TTD never stood a chance. But this album has 2 massive hits on it, and several hidden gems, and the massive hits are always omnipresent on “best of” or “greatest hits” compilation albums. For those of you who believe that this sounds like the ‘80s… it might… it was, after all, a period when digital was starting to replace analog aspects of recording and publishing, and it heavily influenced the sound in the trebles and upper mid-range. However, this album has nothing to do with the sound of the Royalties mentioned before… so clear out your ears, and give it another spin!

my thoughts on “sign your name” - I KNOW THIS SONG!! very MJ vocals and Prince sounding.

A load of quality hits here. 3.5 stars.

Sign Your Name will forever be the school disco smooch song of that period. Far, far more to this album though.

First song really drew me in, loved the drum machined high hats especially, such a refreshing contrast to the the otherwise folkish/blues to open. But then... What's happening here?? So many of these songs feel crowded (derogatory), the lyrics feel shallow/perfunctory ("let's go forward with our love"???), and while TTD has pipes, I remained unconvinced that he has power behind his voice. Compositions feel repetitive, and while they're not doubt fun to play and jam on, but they just are NOT ENOUGH to carry it forward. Without any sort of X-factor to guide this, it really leaves me scratching my head as to what all the fuss is about.

J’ai bien aimé, je le met dans « À réécouter », pas le temps pour plus de papotage

Mum would love this

Good voice!

Мелодия и текст классно, но чего-то не хватило и на альбом маловато реально качающих песен

Pretty dated, cheesy lyrics and overproduced. Seems to be a lot of these albums on here so far. Running out of things to say about them

Pretty typical 80s pop. Not bad but not my thing.

Incredible voice. The Jackson 5 cover at the end is one of the best I've ever heard

If you were to triangulate a point perfectly equidistant from Lenny Kravitz, James Brown, and Michael Jackson, you may land here. The only question that remains, is if all that triangulation was necessary.

Better on the second listen. 80’s sound, but rather interesting. Terence has pipes! 3.5

3.5* and I can't round up. It's solid pop. Well written, good singer, but it doesn't hook me. Just not my thang.

Most everyone of a certain age is going to remember "Wishing Well," if nothing else from Introducing The Hardline According To... That song never particularly struck me as great even at the height of its popularity, but most of the rest of this record is nearly unlistenable to my ears because it's trying so hard to be appealing. The saccharine gloss makes it genuinely painful to sit through — there are too many cringe moments to catalogue — not my thing doesn't even begin to cover it.

Fave Era of music! Love wishing well, and seven more days. trying to be attentive and listen to the others. Love the sounds and the bass and percussive elements. Lets go forward has some great efx too. Saved Sign your name too great track. Love this one

Overall a decent album. Kind of goes back and forth between up tempo, nearly Stevie Wonder-esque songs, and slower vocal focused tunes. The more uptempo songs are pretty good. Wish the album was more of that. 3/5 Probably won't listen again

Soul music having aged badly, sounding very 80s with lots of tinny synths, sometimes shrill vocals, a percussive guitar, a tight bass line and sharp horn stabs.

This guy was Michael Jackson without the baggage. Some great songs, and then a bad second album and he disappeared. Sad.

Not my thing

Has a Michael Jackson-esque feel to it. Good songs, but definitely feels 80s

Wishing Well is strong, however the rest of the album doesn't live up to that track.

This was pleasant. I feel like that’s all I have to really say honestly, not much more. It was relaxing but I kind of lost interest?

The Prince comparison seemed embarrassingly transparent from the start so get that out of the way immediately. I bought this record based off of "Wishing Well" even though that little flute riff annoyed me (and still does), but it is still a damn catchy song. But the album overall comes off as more than a bit cheesy - I can't remember if I felt that way back then but "get up outta your rocking chair grandma!" followed by some very 80s dated keys isn't aging well. What does age well is his voice - more Teddy Pendergrass than the aforementioned artist - and that alone might be what makes this worth one listen at least, but that's enough. I'm probably too hard on the dated aspect of it - nearly everything from c1984-1989 has/had "new" keyboard sounds for the time that sound like ass now - but it's real and it's not spectacular. TL;DR: It's fine for a few songs' worth, but not anything close to the entire album. Honestly kinda disappointing after all these years. 5/10 2 stars.

No disrespect, but I'm having a really hard time hearing this as anything other than the Michael Jackson we have at home. That said, it's still really good. 4/5 Highlights: If You All Get to Heaven Wishing Well Dance Little Sister Seven More Days Who's Loving You

Really enjoyed this. Some really well crafted songs on here and the album is consistent. Needs more listens. A nice 80’s vibe, not sure if that helps or hinders it. Either way, very enjoyable.

This is not at all my thing...

Fav songs: Sign Your Name; Wishing Well My whole life I thought TTD was British. I stand corrected on that fact. As for the album, it is full mostly of pretty conventional soul. 'Sign Your Name' recalls Prince the most with its stripped down production, especially when compared with a lot of the songs on this album. More of this. His vocal talent is obvious. I think he should have long term been paired with a strong producer/songwriter who could provide more direction.

This is waaayyyy funkier than I was expecting it to be. Really enjoyable! It does get a little tired as it goes; it is just soooo 80s. Definitely a product of its time. The Acapella song is a nice little break, and the cover at the end is kind of fire. The album started off so great, but it just didn't really get better or do much different until the very end, and by then it's already worn out what makes it great. Not to the point that I dislike it, but it's just tired and not as great. Favorite Song(s): If You Let Me Stay, As Yet Untitled

I'm sorry I never heard this album in full as it's a really good time. The tone of the singles probably pushed me away, but I've always liked those songs. I would pick up on vinyl for sure.

Such a pleasant listen

01) If You All Get to Heaven - 7,5 02) If You Let Me Stay - 9,0 03) Wishing Well - 10,0 04) I'll Never Turn My Back on You (Father's Words) - 7,0 05) Dance Little Sister - 10,0 06) Seven More Days - 7,5 07) Let's Go Forward - 7,0 08) Rain - 10,0 09) Sign Your Name - 10,0 10) As Yet Untitled - 6,0 11) Who's Lovin' You - 8,5 TOTAL: 8,41 (84/100)

A couple good singles off this album. It’s very 80s. The sexy time,creepy,cringe 80s. Not my favorite but I tolerated it.

It was a solid 80's pop album, I liked the singles, but I wasn't blown away. 3 Stars.

not my thing 2.5

All throughout the 80s I only heard one of these songs, and I feel that I was missing a treasure, as if it were hidden from me. Not that every song is a masterpiece, but perhaps half of them are worthy to have heard my whole life instead of stumbling upon them when I'm almost 60. Glad I found this album now. 4/5

So much more than "Wishing Well" and "Sign your Name" Pretty good overall for numerologists, this is my no.600

Funky side of Stevie Wonder. This was pretty good but it all sounded pretty samey. Fantastic voice

Vocals worth the listen General Notes: Gorgeous. Vocals. Yes. Please. Pleasantly surprised by this first listen on my 1001 journey. However, most of the album was too repetitive and lyrically simplistic (laughable even, in a few spots) for my taste. Apparently classified as neo-soul, this album worked best for me in the moments of obvious blues, doo-wop, and gospel influence. Songs of Note: Seven More Days The first song on the album that really worked for me. Moving and bluesy with a lyrical subtlety that the previous tracks lacked. The repetitiveness works here, as it would in a blues song. Let’s Go Forward The high, airy sustained note around minute 4:00 is just so, so pretty. But the song as a whole feels like a missed opportunity, as the length (too long), disjointed and immature lyrics, and general repetitiveness diminish the impact. Sign Your Name Being unfamiliar with Maitreya, if I had been asked to guess the artist on this song, I would have guessed Prince. The influence is apparent. Still, this song is beautifully performed; and while I feel that Maitreya’s vocal mix of angelic airiness with forceful growls, whoops, and hollers does not work for every song on the album, the mix is subtle and affecting here - nothing jarring or out-of-place. Nice song - smooth and cool and perfect for an 80s playlist. Who’s Loving You This is a favorite song of mine, and I listen to MJ’s version in my car all the time. Maitreya’s cover is superb. His voice offers a perfect narrator for this song - one who is growling and bird-singing his confession, vulnerability, regret. Believable from the very second it starts. I will listen to this one again, I’m sure. Gorgeously performed. Those vocal runs: yes, please. Probably the best cover I’ve heard to rival MJ. A nice surprise ending to the album as a whole.

3/5

Nup, don't like it 1.5/5

You know maybe it's because I'm a child of the 80s but I didn't think this was that bad! Had some Prince vibes.

Unfortunately when this came out I was completely ignorant of the genre and uninterested. I do look back fondly on "Wishing Well" and love when the video comes up on MTV Classic. We enjoyed listening to this while driving around Maine today. Kind of sounds like what Bruno Mars did decades later. (And the mix of "suggested music" that came up after the album was over on Apple Music was fantastic.)

Felt like a very long visit to the hairdresser. It was a relief to recognise a couple of tracks at the end of this, but it still felt like "Disney does Prince".

drei plus if you let me stay / wishing well / sign your name

This was an interesting album, could see myself listening to it again on a chill day

Meh. Nice, but not something I'll think of again any time soon.

Aika perus tälläistä radioon sopivaa soulahtavaa, herkkää, vähän rokahtavaa funkki poppia. Ihan mid. Parhaat: Seven More Days, I'll Never Turn My Back On You, As Yet Untitled

I feel like this album suffers a bit from the era it was made. It's got some pretty good stuff. But the production sounds dated today, and uses a lot of those gimmicks that were very prevalent in 80s and some early 90s music. If he had just toned that back a little bit, I feel like it would be a stronger album and have a better lasting power. As it is, the production choices can be a little distracting from the quality of the songs themselves. Like things are going good, then there's some unnecessary keyboard-y/synth thing that comes in and detracts from it. Just for an example, I felt like Let's Go Forward could've been a much more impactful track without all the reverb and synth taking over its sound. It doesn't ruin the album by any means, but is noticeable, especially when listening to the work as a whole. Dude seems like a very talented singer. When he shows the skill off, it's impressive. He has a lot of soul and feel behind his voice, which I always appreciate. The songs are also well constructed and have interesting vibes that kept my attention. Minus what I said above, there's not much to complain about. It felt like it got a little weaker at the end, but they may have just been because I'd grown tired from the critiques I had. It's a good, if somewhat flawed album. I had never heard it before, so I'm glad I got the chance to listen here. I feel like I'll come back to at least a few of the tracks but maybe not the whole album given my thoughts on the production decisions. Overall: 3.3/5

I didn’t think I knew of this artist’s music at all. Then “Sign your Name” came on and I was transported back to the orthodontist’s office, having my braces tightened to the adult contemporary sounds of K-OST 103.5.

not my usual bag but there's some bangers on this album

not heard this in a long time still enjoyable some nice songs

fake michael jackson

Some good stuff on here.

used to be promising, but faded away

Hell yeah man. What a beautiful album

This didn’t age at all well. It’s vey 80s, with all that synth, and over production. I like his voice, but I can’t help feeling it wouldn’t sound so good in a live setting. This is not my kind of music, and it sounds very dated.

A bit different given the time it was released. Very soulful. Sign Your Name a goat.

Didnt fuck with it, boring

Not really my thing at all. But hes really going for it and the songs are different enough. I'll never listen tk this again but it wasn't terrible for being late 80s r and b

Not for me

Not good

Dudes got pipes but this is some corny 80s stuff

I enjoyed this more than expected but probably won't think of it ever again.

Ich kann mich noch gut an den Einschlag des Albums erinnern. Einige feierten schon den neuen Prince. Irgendwas muss dazwischen gekommen sein.

boring

Han gar nüd mitüberchoo, das er jetzt anders heisst. Solids Album.

papi hetmer mol gseit ich söll das lose, bitz mitem debüt gepeaked glaub. verstoh nöd gaanz waser will. hani scho letstmol gfunde. singt hammer, d hook vo all get to heaven isch mega depeche mode. if you let me stay chli aggressiv happy aber sehr sehr cute. cools orgelsolo. find de sound vom album liidet drunder dases endi 80er entstande isch. d 808s drum machines künstlichi blöser sind alli nöd ideal. wishing well sehr sehr cool, au lead single gsi glaub. chli meh lowkey. sehr prince production und sini stimm chunt richtig zur geltig. i'll never turn my back on you hani biiitz langwilig gfunde. dance little sister groovt sehr. irgendwie tönt alles sehr dünn? chli wenig punch. seven more days nice mit slide giti und so. aber haut mi au nöd um. haha rain rain go away go away? würkli? sign your name wieder chli cooler, check waner harmonisch macht aber finds echt echt dünn. bridge isch super. as yet untitled zeigt er wiener cha siiinge aber finds au bitz pretentious das ganze. sehr JAAA MUSIG JAA. who's loving you tönt so als gäbses scho vorher, cute soulsong findi geil. isch glaub e 3 aber s album liidet würkli under de dünne production, will chli viel stil abhooge, und d text sind seehr möchtegern deep. git e wohlwollends 3

also komische guy wo sin name gänderet het, zeig wasd chasch! wiso tuter sini nase zuedrucke währendem singe? d perkussion gfallt mier iwie nöd megaa? hans gfühl die 80erjahr drums passed nöd so zum rest musikalisch jaa es chunnt langsam für mich wishing well isch easyy funny und cool! wow let's go forward hani insane scheisse gfunde und au rain isch jz nüt wo würkli öppis mit mier macht as yet untitled chammer mache! no easy schön who's loving isch na schön gsi aber sini stimm het mich nöd so überzügt wie sie ein glaub hett sölle naja. es drü wirds scho

This is one of those nice sounding albums on this list that I really enjoyed and will likely not listen to again. Terence sounds great on this record, the production is fantastic (it’s 80’s but not super duper 80’s sounding). It could be mistaken for a politically conscious Michael Jackson record, and has some MJ/Prince crossover appeal.

For a long time I didn't know who this guy was while his name would sometimes pop up. Well, his old name. Wishing Well, Dance Little Sister and Sign Your Name still get decent radio play. I always found Wishing Well quite silly sounding. I'd say Dance Little Sister is probably the best one. Rain was quite a fun song. Decent album. I think sometimes his singing is a bit much, but I guess that adds personality.

I was hoping to rediscover an album I recalled being popular for reasons I didn't understand at the time. Alas, no rediscovery.

C’est sympa sans plus on va pas se mentir. Les « Ouh Ouh ouuuuuuh » m’ont rendu fou

Plutôt chill mais pas transcendant

Sympa, un peu funky, j'aime bien. Assez entrainant, je l'écouterai pas comme ça mais c'est sympa en musique de fond un peu complexe.

This was funky and had some cool moments. It got superrrr repetitive tho. The vocals are fantastic. This was groovy Liked Songs: "If You Let Me Stay" , "Wishing Well" , "I'll Never Turn My Back on You (Father's Words)" , "Dance Little Sister" , "Rain" , "Who's Loving You"

liked songs: As Yet Untitled (I think?) Some stuff to like here, but I didn't love it. It felt like it was trying very hard but didn't execute well. 2.25

God that sucked. I guess I missed that one when it charted in the 80s because nothing on that album was vaguely familiar.

No thanks

I was a fan of this album when it came out and I like even more today.

Music built around a voice that's almost, but not quite, good enough to carry it. Sign Your Name is a stand-out single because it's the only song that understands Terence's/Sandana's appeal. Belting passionately, he sounds weak - give him a song that focuses on being tender, layer up the harmonies, and that weakness becomes a strength.

A couple of catchy moments but I like my pop with a little more punch

Zo nice om een album te hebben van een artiest waar je nog nooit van hebt gehoord, dan een van de nummers te herkennen en ook nog eens vet te vinden! Lekker begin van de week ook zo, met een beetje een soulish album. Sananda heeft echt een dijk van een stem, dus wat dat betreft zit ik hier best wel goed. Wat de fuck, echt hoe verder ik luister hoe meer ik verbaasd ben dat al deze bangers van deze man zijn? Dit is echt een top album? Waarom kende ik m niet? Wel een interessante keuze om na de banger Dance Little Sister een meer gospel achtige slow jam te doen met Seven More Days. Sowieso kakt het album daarna een beetje in, om weer wat op te pakken met Sign Your name. Wel een shout-out naar Rain, wat een nummer is dat je schrijft als je zeiknat geregend bent en 10 jaar. "Rain, Rain, go away!" Hilarisch hahaha Maar dit album gaat echt alle kanten op. Ik vind het grootste deel heel erg vet, maar sommige nummers vallen zo hard uit de toon? Ik vraag me echt af hoe die pitch meetings zijn gegaan. Hij noemde dit zelf het beste album sinds Sgt Peppers, ik ben het daar niet echt mee eens, maar dit is absoluut een ijzersterk album. Wel echt heel erg 80s, maar dat is prima! FAVO: If you let me stay, Wishing Well, Dance Little Sister, Sign your name

2.5 Voice not as good as Michael Songwriting and production not as good as Prince Not as sexy or as cool as Lenny Not to be reductive and only compare him to other black male artists of the 80s but that’s who he was being marketed as. The “next big thing.” And idk, I don’t get it. It felt like manifestation by music critics that never fully took off. A couple minor hits, which is still better than 99% of musicians ever, so fair shakes to him, but there’s a reason he so quickly plummeted, and has almost zero cultural relevance nowadays. Like, he’s not really remembered or talked about AT ALL. You’d think The Weeknd would bring him up or something but even he doesn’t seem to care. He’s just not good enough in really any aspect to deserve mention. Sorry!

Crap 80s soul

Fine, but not my thing.

I was a big fan when this came out

“Mom, can we stop and get Michael Jackson?” “No, we have Michael Jackson at home.”

This record was kinda generic r’n’b to me, with at least one song that’s a straight-up MJ impression, vocal tics and all. There are a few standouts: “As Yet Untitled,” acapella and heartfelt, felt more real and showcased his considerable vocal talent. His cover of the classic “Who’s Loving You” is great. And “Sign Your Name” remains one of the great yearning love songs of pop music.

I haven't heard anything from this album since I was a kid (I remember my mom played this album a lot). I was hoping it was going to be good in a nostalgic way, but aside from the single Wishing Well, there wasn't any nostalgia and it really didn't do anything for me. Not a style I'm into, so not going to be listening to this again anytime soon. 2/5

I didn't really care for this. It reminded me of Prince but more boring, and I already don't really care for Prince? I dunno, I don't get how this sold 3 mil records in 3 days. 2/5

Do not like R&B

С этим альбомом я чувствую, как сильно я ЗАЕБАЛСЯ от 1001. Ну музон и музон, отыграл на фоне, пока я ел свой ужин, в ожидании песни, от которой, согласно первому ревью, сносит крышу мужчинам, женщинам, и всем где-то между. Но у меня крышу не снесло, и теперь я думаю, может я и не человек вовсе, а *не очень лардж* ллм с иллюзией памяти и проч. Мне было кринжово. От песен, от звука, от всего. Лучшая песня - As Yet Untitled.

This stands up pretty well after all this time. Always liked his voice, shame he kind of imploded after this. But at least he got one good album out.

Streng 4

Not a fan. Repetitive.

Gran debut no mejorado. Desaparecido pero en activo, caso curioso.

Bleh

I should hate this. It broadly straddles that pop/soul/R&B style that I usually dislike, as well as incorporating many of the worst 80s production cliches. But somehow, I enjoyed it a lot. It's unashamedly 'big' in its approach and, crucially, the artist formerly known as Terence Trent D'Arby thought to include some infectious grooves and hooks in his tunes. The flirtation with other styles across the album (like reggae) doesn't hurt, either. A very pleasant surprise: 3.5 / 4

It's VERY 80s but I like a lot of the songwriting here and the vocals are excellent. Clearly a lot of talent on display. The production just isn't my thing and hasn't aged well.

Really wish I connected more with this album. Great vocal performance, but less than interesting songs make a surprising amount of this album forgettable. Good moments, but inconsistent. Top tracks: Dance Little Sister, Who's Loving You

Not my style bruv

Not for me.

Real strong 80s vibe, is fine.

You know what? I’ll pass.

Some good songs but a bit too 80s pop. Never was an mj fan. Either way I could appreciate it

Not a fan of 1980s compressed pop. Last 2 songs in other genres are good.

4⭐️/5 [05.29.2025] 01.11.2026

Ordentliches 80er Album mit „Wishing Well“ und „Sign Your Name“. Auch R&B kann gut sein und gerne wiedergehört werden.

LW

I remember the plaudits this guy debuted with, quite a bit of noise in the press. I didn't get it then, and I don't get it now. I enjoyed a few tracks, but the musical and vocal style is really not to my taste.

Not really my thing, but he has a really good voice.

Very fun album.

Got quite distracted reading about TTD's name change. That's probably on balance better than this album, although there's plenty of good stuff in this. It's not really memorable enough to get into the four category, but still, it's good solid and catchy pop.

Not great. Feel like I'm in a mall or movie from the 80s. I don't understand what makes this special/interesting/good...???? Couldn't get through this, had to start skipping through the tracks.

Enjoyed

Great voice, decent songs, questionable production.

Great voice, interesting enough, but rough 80s production. Perhaps better enjoyed by Prince-fans.

Fine and totally harmless pop record. I would have liked to call it Prince from Temu, but it wasn't actually that bad. That being said, I don't remember any of it a few days later.

If You All Get To Heaven sounds like MJ over tribal music. If You Let Me Stay is pretty good. Dance Little Sister is too. Seven More Days is good. Rain is good. Sign Your Name is pretty standout. As Yet Untitled is good. In general, upbeat 80s soul/funk/alt. Didn't really think this would be my cup of tea and still not sure if it is, but most of the music was good.

His voice is a rich combination of Seal, Little Richard and Michael Jackson. The music is typical late '80s fare, with sparkling digital synthesizers and drum machines. Terence / Sananda has the unfortunate tendency to reach past his grasp vocally, resulting in some awkward moments of strain. The songs would be stronger if he reined himself in. Still, he has a compelling presence and could have matured into a great artist following this album.

Impressive vocals, impressive production on this release. No song really had the hook to be memorable for me so as far as a Pop album goes, it was kinda disappointing for me overall. Also, I really didn’t appreciate how wet he sounds on As Yet Untitled. 3 stars

I imagine when this came out it sounded cutting edge, but now it just sounds very dated. Production is so of it’s time - overtly 80s percussion, treble-y bass tone and his voice, though no doubt is talented, just somehow grates on me. Album gets very same-y after a while too. Though i liked and recognised Sign Your Name, it wasn’t enough to save the album. 1.5/5

Like Michael Jackson but without hits

This was fun to listen to, and his voice is amazing. The instrumentation is great as well. This just sounds very good and I enjoyed it.

So close to a 4… and a 2. So much worked for me, so much didn’t.

Never really got why this was a big thing in the 80s.

117/1089 - Music is decent. Not a huge fan of the voice but it doesn't sound bad. The a'cappella track "As Yet Untitled" was alright. I honestly think I'm burnt out on most 80s pop sounds (except for New Wave, the best genre) because of all the 80s throwback music today in shopping centers.

Overall, this was a good listen. You can hear the potential all in this debut. Tracks like “Wishing Well” and “Sign Your Name” stand out as highlights, smooth, soulful, and catchy. That said, not everything on here lands quite as well. A few songs drift into very generic 80's territory, with dated production and overly polished arrangements that don’t bring much new to the table. Still, when it hits, it hits. A good album with some bright moments, even if it doesn’t fully escape the sound of its era.

Great haunting voice. It was a huge in Miami back in 1987

Tyylikäs. Koko ajan odotin, että minkä biisin näistä tiedän, niin tutulta koko levy kuulosti - ja se tuntui oikeastaan hyvältä tunteelta. Sign your name se lopulta oli, ja se onkin hyvä biisi (mukana laulamiseen vähintään).

Ehdin jo vähän innostua tokan biisin kasariafroilusta, mutta kokonaisuudessaan levy jää jumiin genrensä, no, kornimpaan ilmaisuun. Seuraavan kerran innostukseni osoitti merkkejä itsestään viimeisen kappaleen paluussa Sam Cooken universumiin.

This has four shining singles that I have heard collectively probably a hundred times, but not at all in the last couple of decades, and I should’ve missed the guy. The rest works as solid examples of then-fashionable production techniques, sounds faxed-in from a distance, every edge rubbed off, many thin layers with space in between for copious echo. Soft keyboards, chiming shinies. Agreeable, overall. I like his sappy romanticism and wish it had carried into our toxic century. Simon, I tend not to read your reviews before posting, but today I have and I am joining you in solidarity on “4”.

In retrospect TTD was a far superior first draft of Lenny Kravitz. I feel bad we mocked him so incessantly, we didn't fully understand the consequences. I really enjoyed hearing this again - I think I taped it off a classmate back when; certainly knew all the songs and relished "If You Let Me Stay" and "Sign Your Name" now they are not hugely overplayed. Tel is clearly a talented guy, if rather full of himself. My old record company boss would claim the subsequent "Neither Fish Nor Flesh" was a lost work of absolute genius; I did not agree, but he could be a contrary and sappy git at times. Looks like Tezza changed his name in the meantime, and fair enough as (all together now:) the Trent isn't even in Derby, it's in Stoke! If I give this a 4, can we get something non-UK-'80s tomorrow, please?

I don’t know what’s going on with the name, but the album was okay.

I remember the song "Wishing Well" from this album from whenever it came out and even as a kid thought it was cheesy. And time did not de-cheese it. Had a hard time finding anything about this record that warranted its inclusion on this list.

Quick one here cos I’m on holiday with little time. Ex-wife like TTD so what do you expect from me? Even allowing for that hate i it with a passion 1/5 11/5/25

Very 80s. I liked Wishing Well and remember the video but probably wouldn't listen to the full album again.

Massive throwback - I had no idea I knew a few of these songs

It's a nice soulful pop album but sometimes I feel the album was made by someone who know they are too talented. I miss friction and the not-so-perfect moments.

Good songs and rhythms. Easy to listen to and not just for the background.

great times

Really enjoyed this one, his voice is super soulful and really cool, and even though it drags slightly at the end it’s saved by a wonderful last two tracks and a very strong first half.

Very strange to get an album from a one-hit wonder, and one whose hit wasn't that big anyway (at least over here in Europe, I think). Either way, this sounds so mid-80's in all the worst ways, very tacky. Key tracks: Wishing Well

This album is a good reminder of how overly dramatic the 80's were. It was good, not amazing. The one thing I will give it props for is that it fully embraced the 80's era. Reading a bit about Sananda, I wonder if he continues to embrace a similar sound or where he has gone from here.

Wishing Well and Sign Your Name are great songs. They both have a sort of mystical pop romance vibe that reminds me of Prince. I also like Who's Loving You, which has a soulful Sam Cooke feel to it. Rain has a pretty great beat. Seven More Days is a cool dark groove about a guy in jail that wants to get home to his woman or his man or his family or something. And he may have been wrongfully accused and this may be a social commentary but it's not exactly clear. I don't normally go for 80's R&B grooves but I like Let's Go Forward With Our Love. Dance Little Sister gives me Stevie vibes. How can you not groove to that one?! It's a pretty cool 80's album with lots of different moods to the grooves.

Enjoyable! I know the hits Wishing Well and Sign Your Name. I never would have sought this album out but having heard it, I’d definitely come back to it. It has that wonderful 1987 production sheen to it.

This was dripping with 80s cheese. It did have some nostalgic songs that were fun to hear again (Wishing Well, Seven More Days, Sign Your Name). And I enjoyed If You All Get to Heaven. Ultimately though, despite some good societal commentary here and there, the song structures felt pretty basic and formulaic, and it’s just hard to take this album very seriously.

2.2 1x not a fan of 80s but not awful

Très belle découverte. À réécouter

Over-produced in parts, but overall I enjoyed this.

Ok

Such a boring attempt at Michael Jackson-style pop album. Couldn't finish. There's just nothing to grab onto. "Rain" is laughably bad.

I agree with folks on the production of this album. It does hold back some of the songs. However, there’s a lot of great pop R&B tunes here so I won’t complain. Closer to a 3.25

Sananda Maitreya, formerly known as Terence Trent D'Arby, is at his best when he's full of shit in the right way: 'If You Let Me Stay,' 'Wishing Well,' 'Dance Little Sister,' 'Let's Go Forward.' Yes, three of those are the chief singles of the record, but that's the point: he ain't that deep. He puts his best foot forward by sticking to the horizons of pop. It's when he belts a thing like 'I've gotta hold on / Struggle through another day / To see the fire in my baby's eyes' that he becomes an ordeal. Maitreya can undoubtedly sing, but loads here is pseudo-gospel and pseudo-soul. Besides, even the standout tracks do not match the power of superiors: Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, Prince, Michael and Janet Jackson, DeBarge, Smokey Robinson.

no nice gsi, chönnt mer weder lose.

bagger van een zelfverklaarde god... hij was alleszins niet de god van de tijd, want de tand des tijds heeft lelijk huisgehouden...

Decent listen.

Great find

I like r&b and the pop vibes from this album. Vocals were a nice change of pace from the slog of British rock. 3.7

What is this?

Wishing Well sucks and the rest was worse. Epitome of 80s crap Pop.

2 decent tracks but not my thing

Fun album. A couple gems in here

Like picking Mario in Mario kart, if I ordered a default 80s rock/soul album this would be the end product. It wasn’t bad but like other reviews say it’s just got the most basic 80’s production with the synths and drums and the songs themselves were, for the most part, extremely radio friendly, I would happily listen to it again though if I had to, he’s got a good voice and it was engaging enough.

Great! Smooth voice r&b, my cats liked dancing to the more upbeat songs

funky pop music. this album has that distinct (and maybe corny to a lot of people) clean, echoey dancey vibe that's heard in a plethora of 80s releases; definitely a hidden gem especially if you're into the almost stereotypically 1980s sort of sound. plenty of love songs, plenty of songs about identity, spiritual imagery and influence... while i can't imagine i'll be worshipping this album, it absolutely stands out by itself in the world of contemporary 80s albums. i am obsessed with maitreya's singing voice, talk about the RASP. i love that. he at times reminds me of a postmodern james brown.

"Wishing Well" is cool, and "As Yet Untitled" actually kind of blew me away. There are a few other elements here and there that I like fine enough, too, but overall, this just isn't a sound I dig very much. He also cribs a bit too much from Prince and MJ for my liking - two artists I'm not big on anyway, but I respect their singularity. 2.5/5

pretty sweet great great great

Wishing Well is cool but mostly not my scene

2.75

A couple of bangers here but wow the rest of the album is just filled with crap songs. Disappointed

2.5

Fint album, fina melodier!

Not for me

2/5

на любителя, мне не сильно зашло.

Budget mj, wel ok maar niet mn muziek

This has typical late-80s production values - make it chimey, and the bass, while not absent, doesn't sit in the mix at all, so that it might as well be not there at all. Speaking of which: Do you know what's also not there? - The songs. Wishing Well and Sign Your Name were chart toppers in their day, but the rest is derivative and quite forgettable. As is this album. 2/5

Molto interessante, sia come "costruzione" sia per le singole canzoni, tipo "Wishing Well". Anche "Sign your name". Bello bello

There's a few great songs on this, Wishing Well and Sign Your Name are undeniable hits. Sananda's voice and vocal performance is outstanding. A bunch of the songs suffer from the overtly funky 80s cliche sound though, which the quality of the songwriting only partially makes up for. Overall it's an alright listen, the aforementioned singles and the mellow ending to the album are the highlights. If it wasn't for Sananda's amazing voice this would've gotten a 2 star rating.

Wishing Well is an undeniable hit. Could go without the rest of the album tho

I enjoyed this a lot. Groovy poppy soul music. Stand-out: I'll Never Turn My Back on You (Father's Words)

The biggest surprise with this was that on searching for 'Terence Trent D'Arby' I was presented with 'Sanansa Maitreya'. Found it quite bizarre that even with a name change post-album, the whole library of music had changed to represent said name change. That aside, this was okay, some recognisable songs from a recognisable voice but not an album I'd feel obliged to listen to again. His voice isn't really for me