René & Angela Albums (3)
'Street Called Desire'
Release Date 10/25/1990
Tracks 8
Label Mercury
See Album Tracklist and Review
What The Critics Say
René & Angela's obvious enthusiasm and for-real emotions make listening to Street Called Desire a pleasure. The uptempo numbers aren't jokes -- the throbbing beat on "I'll Be Good" is mind locking, but the two ballads, "You Don't Have to Cry" and "Your Smile," are outstanding. What makes them work is their unpredictability. No particular or predetermined pattern is set. No attempt is made to divide the lines and choruses equally; each singer unselfishly contributes what's necessary. "Smile" is mostly Angela until René repeatedly chants "No other love can light my life, no one can make things right, 'til my baby smiles." René has more juice on "You Don't Have to Cry," matching alternating verses with Angela, who gives an incredible performance on the heart-stopping ballad. René's brother Bobby Watson (formerly of Rufus) co-produced the sides with Bruce Swedien. "Save Your Love for Number #1" and "Your Smile" both reached number one R&B; "You Don't Have to Cry" went to number two, and "I'll Be Good" climbed to number four. Billboard's pop chart proved a tougher nut for R&A to scale, as a number 47 ranking for "I'll Be Good" was their highest number. Due to personal problems and conflicts, the duo called it quits and released no more LPs. This one is essential for any soul music aficionado. ~ Andrew Hamilton, All Music Guide
What The Critics Say
René & Angela's second Capitol album began to lay the groundwork for their smash fourth release, although it came on another label. Wall to Wall had several chart hits including "I Love You More," "Wall to Wall," and "Imaginary Playmates." Rene & Angela were the ideal singing duo, remaining prominent on the R&B scene throughout 1981 and 1982. Moore was wise enough to content himself with mostly harmonizing while Winbush's soaring, strong voice took the spotlight during the choruses and on the leads. ~ Ron Wynn, All Music Guide
What The Critics Say
With this being the last album the duo would record for Capitol, they still couldn't manage to crack the Billboard R&B Top Ten. However, they did come close. Their first release was the dance single "Bangin' the Boogie." With its rapid rhythm and blaring horns, the twosome managed to carry the song to number 33 on the Billboard R&B charts. Their follow-up single, "My First Love, " had an impressive outing. With its lush string arrangement, the pair deliver a passionate take on a serenely written number, which peaked at #12 after 18 weeks on the charts. While most of the album features uptempo songs, "Can't Give You Up" is the only midtempo number, and it, like most of the album, suffers from production overkill. ~ Craig Lytle, All Music Guide
