Inner Life was essentially the versatile
Jocelyn Brown on lead vocals (she could do slow jams as well as disco), plus a contingent of studio musicians. On this self-titled release, the ballad "It's Wonderful" builds to a frenzy but never climaxes. "You Got to Pay Girl," a minor hit, has a magnificently arranged musical interlude featuring a tinkling piano, a boastful foghorn, and clapping hands.
Brown gives
Ashford & Simpson's "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" feeling and elasticity and, aided by
Larita Gaskins,
Carole Sylvan,
Connie Harvey, and Dennis Collins, she transforms the classic into a testifying revival while a zany synthesizer colors the pulsating rhythms. "(Knock Out) Let's Go Another Round" is exciting and tasty. The Salsoul label used electronic drums and synthesizers better than most, making them funky and essential. ~ Andrew Hamilton