Eyes of Innocence

by Jason BirchmeierThe first Miami Sound Machine album to take a step toward crossing over to the general stateside pop market, Eyes of Innocence did so because of its standout dance hit, "Dr. Beat." The song is very catchy and boasts a lively beat, making it one of Miami Sound Machine's best songs. Overall, Eyes of Innocence isn't anywhere near as appealing as that one song, though it has some charming moments that are now so dated that they seem campy. This is a large part of the album's appeal, especially for folks who are only now hearing the music for the first time. For those who actually were tuned in enough to hear Eyes of Innocence at the time, modern-day listens will surely bring back 1984 in all of its colorful glory. For the most part, everyone is advised to skip ahead a few years to Primitive Love and, especially, Let It Loose, which are the best Miami Sound Machine albums (and the most widely available -- or more accurately, the only available to most general consumers).