Rocktrospectiva: Billie Ocean's Brilliant Masterpiece "Suddenly" Turns 40

Released on 12 September 1984, "Suddenly" was the fifth studio album by British singer Billy Ocean, The album featured his first major US pop hit single "Caribbean Queen (No More Love on the Run)", also it became Ocean's first charting album in the United Kingdom, reaching number nine on the UK Album Chart. It also reached number nine in the US, and spawned two additional US top-five singles in the title track and "Loverboy", while a fourth single, "Mystery Lady", reached the US top 40. "Caribbean Queen" and "Suddenly" also reached the top 10 of the UK Singles Chart. 

 

Considered a masterpiece; not only because it has a plentiful supply of hits filled with good rhythms, but also sounds vibrant and fresh like it was 40 years ago, and also happens to be the album that would catapult Ocean to international massive success. An album that shouldn't be overlooked as it’s a landmark release of the 80s. Is so impressive that it plays like a greatest hits release for there isn’t a dull tune to be heard. While every song didn't have the potential to set the charts on fire, when the linear structure of an album is this strong, while songwriting and the musical style were a crucial element in the success of "Suddenly", and its corresponding single releases, the recording, mix, and mastering are second to none.

The album opened with the massive "Caribbean Queen (No More Love On The Run)" is a stunning album opener and if the rhythm doesn’t get you, that saxophone will; With a catchy synth riff and pulsating beat, embodying the essence of the 80s, there’s little wonder as to why Caribbean Queen became not only a massive hit but Ocean’s most successful, "Mystery Lady" slows the tempo slightly but don’t let that deter you for this mid-tempo number has a smooth, jazzy feel, and a laid-back rhythm that is Ocean 101, "Syncopation" is, perhaps, one of the most interesting song titles one could come up with, yet it works perfectly for Ocean’s pronunciation style. That aside, Syncopation is a beautiful tune that, despite being an album-only number, is a contributing factor as to why this album is such an incredible album experience from start to finish, "The Long And Winding Road is a Beatles’ cover from their 1970 release "Let It Be" and is one of the most beautiful interpretations of the song, it remains true to the original, but with Ocean’s style and a touch of the 80s to go along with it for good measure, the danceable "Loverboy" is an atmospheric dream come true, as it applies to the song’s introduction, for the multi-layered presentation is superb. Ocean’s vocal is exceptional here, particularly during the bridge, but it’s the chorus and the musical accompaniment that sets Loverboy apart from the other songs on the album. The driving rhythm, with its mixture of pop and rock stylings, will quickly meld with your soul as this is one catchy tune. 

The second part started with "Lucky Man" has a somewhat relaxed groove, following Loverboy, but this mid-tempo number with its smooth bassline and subtle synth elements is a thoroughly pleasing tune, "Dancefloor" will compel you to get on the Dancefloor for despite having two left feet, this song permeates my soul with its funky rhythm, "If I Should Lose You" is a lovely mid-tempo album-only tune that further confirms Ocean’s exceptional vocal talents, and finally "Suddenly" is a true masterpiece. Ocean’s vocal prowess is on display and his tones are so smooth, and recorded so well, that you’ll feel as if he is in the room with you, singing this beautiful ballad. It’s an ideal closer.

An impeccable recording with a series of songs than joint perfectly together and beatifully, is basically not only Billy Ocean greatest recording, but one of the best albums released in the 1980s particualry in 1984, a timeless classic.