Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

By the time of 'Cutting Edge', Sweet Comfort Band had adopted a pretty typical mid '80s pop rock sound with a lot of the band's subtleties eroded by bombast. With those decidedly dated '80s keyboard and drum sounds, instrumentally the band are sounding less original on this set. As usual it's the band's vocal performances that make them special. On this album Bob Carlisle chips in with some vocals ahead of joining SCB guitarist Randy Thomas in the band Allies. This 1982 release is very much of its time but well polished from the horns augmenting "Running To Win" to the big guitars in the closing "Armed And Ready". Once again they remind me of Hall & Oates but with less soulfulness here which is a shame. "Breakdown Love" almost sounds like it could be an Eagles song whilst other songs like "Valerie" and "Live It" seem to plod along a bit. But as usual, there are some beautifully executed moments.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.