Magic Windows

This is an improvement over Hancock's disco-era productions since at least it is grounded in Herbie's own '70s funk outings ("Chameleon," etc.) instead of generic dance music. Technically, this is an R&B album -- not disco -- with funkier, more flexible rhythm sections, more intriguing electronic instrumental decorations by Hancock, and some first-class instrumental contributions by the Brothers Johnson, the Escovedo family and Michael Brecker. Herbie even gives himself solo breaks on "Magic Number" and "Satisfied with Love" that redeem both tracks and there is a spooky foretaste of techno-pop on "The Twilight Clone." True, this album is still dominated by the R&B vocals of Sylvester, Gavin Christopher and Vicki Randle but Hancock's own sonic signatures make this record listenable. ~ Richard S. Ginell