Rude Boys Albums (2)
What The Critics Say
The debut album from the Rude Boys featured two chart-topping singles. The first was "Written All Over Your Face." Penned by group member Larry Marcus, the single introduced the group to the national stage with its bouncy groove; Marcus describes his hopping beat as the "bingo bounce." The song showcases the vocals of Joe Little III, Edward Buddy Banks, and a cameo appearance by Gerald LeVert; the single rode the charts for 31 weeks. The other big hit was "Are You Lonely for Me." With the well-rounded, riffing baritone of Little and the vibrating, towering tenor of Banks, the single rose straight to the top. This is one of the few songs, since the emergence of videos, to gain the number one ranking without a video. "Come on Let's Do This" and "Heaven" were also releases. Both were moderately paced numbers tempo-wise, but "Heaven" is naturally more soulful with its peppy rhythm. It peaked at number 15 on the charts. This album also featured other outstanding tracks. "I Feel for You" is a tight dance track with much energy; "I Need You" and "I'm Going Thru" are two classic R&B ballads in which Banks and Little convey an emotional testimony. However, that is nothing unusual for the two outstanding singers because they make good on the delivery of all the vocals of this project. ~ Craig Lytle, All Music Guide
What The Critics Say
Riding on the success of their two laid-back number one singles from their debut release, the Rude Boys come flying back with the uptempo "My Kinda Girl." The New Jack Swing number is energetically complemented by the superb vocals of Joe Little and Buddy Banks, who admirably improvise their way through the vamp. Falling short of the number one ranking, the single peaked at number four after 18 weeks on the Billboard R&B charts. The second, and only other single to be released, "Go Ahead and Cry" peaked at number 43 on the charts. For whatever reasons, this CD did not come close to its potential. This project is loaded with one great song after another, most of them soulful ballads. Alongside Banks and Little, Melvin Sephus emerges as a lead vocalist with his comforting falsetto. From its lyrics, arrangements, productions and vocal delivery, the Cleveland-based quartet imparts a stellar performance, creatively paying tribute to several R&B groups from years gone by. ~ Craig Lytle, All Music Guide
