David Ruffin is history as a
Temptation, and his replacement
Dennis Edwards shows his stuff on this live recording of a Copacabana performance. This is on a par with their previous live album, The Temptations Live. They successfully combine their hits with songs from the
In a Mellow Mood LP, making for an entertaining, well-rounded set.
Eddie Kendricks was never in finer voice than here, emoting and pleading on "Please Return Your Love to Me," while showing his ability to sing standards on "With These Hands."
Edwards' rendition of "The Impossible Dream" is appealing to even the most die-hard fans of soul music. You can almost see Paul Williams sweating as he reaches for the notes and belts out the theme from Man of La Mancha; he also treats the crowd to his popular version of "For Once in My Life." Bass singer
Melvin Franklin gets a rare lead and sings his crowd-pleasing "I Truly Believe," the popular flip side of "I Wish It Would Rain."
Otis Williams handles the introductions, but the roar comes when
Edwards take the lead with his powerful, churchy voice. He makes "I Could Never Love Another (After Loving You)" his own; you completely forget
David Ruffin's original version. A powerful statement from
the Temptations. ~ Andrew Hamilton