Rhythm of the Night

by Craig LytleThis marked the third album by the Grand Rapids, MI. natives, and it was also an attempt by the label to increase the group's pop appeal. Of the album's four releases, two were Top Ten singles on the Billboard pop charts: "Rhythm of the Night" (Number Three), and "Who's Holding Donna Now" (Number Six). The former, which is featured in the Berry Gordy movie The Last Dragon, conveys a grande fiesta ambience with its Caribbean rhythm. The single stayed on the Billboard R&B charts for 23 weeks, peaking at Number One. The latter is a mid-tempo number that stays nestled in its mellow pulse, kindled by El DeBarge's inquisitive vocals. The single held the Number Two spot on the charts for four consecutive weeks. While most of the album is pop-oriented, "You Wear It Wear" houses a soulful beat fueled by El's expedient delivery. With its catchy hook line and its female-commending lyrics, the single peaked at Number Seven. "The Heart Is Not so Smart" is clearly a pop tune, and it is no challenge to El's vocal talent; nonetheless, the single peaked at Number 39 after 14 weeks. The beautifully written composition, "Share My World," was never a release (although it was featured on the group's self-titled debut album). However, it has a soft, gentle air with much crossover appeal, and features El and Bunny DeBarge on lead. Though Bunny's vocals are plausible, El's reign supreme. Aside from the aforementioned, the other selections are marginal.