by Andrew Hamilton
The Persuaders tried their luck with Norman Harris, the producer of a host of Philly artists and a carpetbagging Eddie Kendricks; however, little magic resulted from this association. &It's Love& has a lilting charm but no substance -- the swirling strings make the song unbearable. Smokey Douglas ad libs to the rhythm on &Count the Ways,& but the chorus needs a soul injection. &I Need Love& is a heartfelt, enthusiastic ballad, while &Quickest Way Out& includes a vocal and instrumental version. The Poindexter Brothers offer the klutzy, overarranged &Sure Shot,& and &Two Women& suffers from overproduction and only gets interesting when Douglas ad libs a la Teddy Pendergrass. &Hey Sister,& written by Rudy Love, stands out as the premiere track: Douglas' lead reeks with passion, while the Persuaders chant and chime soulfully in the background.