Rocktrospectiva: The Smooth And Seductive "Bonafide" Turns 35

 

Released on 29 June 1990 "Bonafide" was the fourth studio album by the English pop/reggae singer Maxi Priest. The album peaked at number 47 on the Billboard 200 in the United States, while its biggest hit, "Close to You", was a smash, peaking at number one that year. The album spawned five singles "Close To You", "Peace Throughout The World", "Human Work Of Art", "Just A Little Bit Longer", & "Space In My Heart".

 

Back in late 80's new sounds were emerging in British music. Acid House music had exploded and sampling and beats were taking over and influencing all music genres. Then in 1989 the Soul II Soul Soundsystem had introduced us to what was now possible for Soul & R&B and this was a prelude to this classic smooth album for the next year 1990. And here's where the story began influences such as the likes of Soul II Soul, Loose Ends, Bassomatic, Inner City (89) and loads more, a hot, tasty and smooth sound that Maxi Priest album captured that beautifully, guested Jazzie B on one track  "Peace Throughout The World". 

 

The album was a perfect listen from start to finish and a slice of history and of the time. Three other singles were issued: "Human Work of Art", "Just a Little Bit Longer" (a minor hit at 62) and "Space in My Heart" which failed to chart. However, the success of "Close to You" drove the album to gold status. A lovely one of those reggae albums that listener could enjoyed everywhere with good reggae and pop tunes.

 

Critics were favourable for this album which was more thant pop/R&B with reggae slices than it a real reggae due the work of multiple producers, definitely it was a "tour de force" and smooth, seductive, stylistic and very, very addictive.

 

Bonafide Track List: 

 

1. Just A Little Bit Longer

2. Close To You

3. Never Did Say Goodbye

4. Best Of Me

5. Space In My Heart

6. Human Work Of Art

7. Temptress

8. Peace Throughout The World

9. You

10. Sure Fire love

11. Live

12. Prayer For The World