Quarterflash - Quarterflash

Quarterflash's debut album sported the fiery saxophone playing of lead singer Rindy Ross, helping it achieve platinum status, as well as posting two Top 20 hits. "Harden My Heart" reached the number three position in 1981, thanks to a complimentary blend of sax and expert bass riffs from Pilot's Rick Gooch. The second single, "Find Another Fool," was bolstered by Ross' high-pitched vocal attack, gaining a respectable number 16 chart position. While the album's novel appeal of having a sexy female saxophone player at the forefront was well worth the attention, it didn't mean the rest of the album lacked in pop attractiveness. Marv Ross' guitar playing is more than substantial throughout the nine tracks, making songs such as "Valerie," a song about the then taboo subject of lesbianism, and "Right Kind of Love" stand out, and ballads like "Critical Times"and "Williams Avenue" are typical keyboard-aided love songs. After this album, Quarterflash's allure began to fizzle, and the material on their next couple of releases lacked the contagious riffs or congenial radio formula that made this album a success. ~ Mike DeGagne, All Music Guide