Texas Album: “White on Blonde”

If you've heard the singles and liked them, then don't hesitate to buy this album. The other tracks are every bit as strong as the singles. Every one is a gem in it's own right. Strong melodies and Sharleen's beautiful voice make for an incredible album that I never tire of. Any fan of good music, could not fail to enjoy this album. Make sure you also check out their latest album, "The Hush". It's almost as good as this one!

I own all 5 Texas CDs, and this is the most unique. The last track, "Breathless," is amazing. For those of you who own this, please take the time to listen to "Breathless" for its yearning sexiness and infectious energy. All though I have listened to every song several times, this is not an album I can play in its entirety. If you are a non-Texas fan, I would recommend either Southside or Mothers Heaven for your first album as those are more raw and passionate (and unique). Sharleen's voice is so good that I had to give WOB (White on Blonde) 4 stars. Without her talent, I would be disappointed for it seems Texas gets off their creative track in WOB. Perhaps its just because I'm spoiled by the genius of Southside. But Breathless and track 5 (Put your arms around me) make WOB worth the money. And Ms. Spiteri's talent takes the rest of these songs and makes them something worth noticing!

Though they had been around for nearly a decade, Texas didn't get any real notice here in the states until this album, albeit limited exposure through soundtracks and movies. This album should have had a more dramatic impression on the U.S., but unfortunately didn't. Vocalist Sharleen Spiteri and company traffic in various avenues of music, including Motown sounds on the title track and rock on the track 'Postcard'. And no one can hear'Put Your Arms Around Me' and not feel some kind of emotion stirring. Another worthy album that got lost in the shuffle.

Where to start? If you've heard and loved the singles from White On Blonde, you won't be disappointed with the content of the rest of the album which maintains a high standard throughout. Spiteri's singing is near-faultless and the band seems to have an instinctive feel for their music - from the lethargic 'Put Your Arms Around Me' to the pacier 'Black-Eyed Boy' instrumentation and vocals help to give the album a distinctive sound. Yes, it is dangerously middle of the road, the but somehow the band pulls it off, neither challenging the audience too little or too much. To my mind contemporary music doesn't get much better than the closing track 'Breathless', it was worth getting the album for that alone.

The very first time I ever listen to this band (Texas) was during the spring of 1997...I was in Amsterdam and I immediately fell in love with this group....Well its 7 years later and I still love them...it bring back good and wonderful memories...God bless them :)