Go for It

Recorded
1979-1980
Released

Shalamar’s 1981 Go For It has been somewhat overshadowed by their Friends album which contained several huge crossover hits and was recorded at the same time, which is a shame because while lacking its ownNight To Remember” or “I Can Make You Feel Good,” this collection of warm, rich, Leon Sylvers soul/post-disco productions definitely has its own subtle charms. These include song-defining, slippery synthetic basslines, a constant head-nodding easy swing to the grooves, the casual simmering intensity of Jeffrey Daniels, Howard Hewit and Jody Watley’s vocals, and the very many pretty, melodic hooks.  Slinky, silky, slighty-sleazy post-disco jams likeAppeal,” “Good Feelings” and “Sweeter As The Days Go By” slide out of the speakers most appealingly, complemented by in-your-face slapbass-funkers like “Rocker,” “Go For It” and album standout “Talk To Me.”

Harold Heath