The WhispersImaginationReview

The Whispers are one of the world’s longest-running soul vocals groups, yet are known mainly in the UK for their two early 80s big hits, And the Beat Goes On and It’s a Love Thing. The Los Angeles-based quintet was formed around Texan twin brothers Walter and Wallace ‘Scotty’ Scott and first appeared on a single in 1964 before releasing records on the Janus and Soul Train labels. However, it was when Soul Train mutated into Dick Griffey’s SOLAR (Sound of Los Angeles Records) imprint in 1977 that their commercial strength grew. Griffey, also their manager, was able to develop their potential. Working with Leon Sylvers III from the group Dynasty, they released a series of well-crafted, highly commercial albums that, while acknowledging disco, fully kept in touch with their doo-wop and R&B roots.

Imagination was their 10th album release and came straight off the back of the platinum success of its predecessor, The Whispers. With their tuxedos, bat-like bowties and bright pink waistcoats, the group clearly oozed a certain sophistication. The album is similar – co-produced by the group, Sylvers and Griffey, it is full of high production values, a back-up band that included the cream of LA’s session players and hand-picked material that showcased leader ‘Scotty’ Scott’s voice.

By the time It’s a Love Thing hit the UK top 40 in March 1981, the group had charted twice more in the wake of their Top 3 1980 smash And the Beat Goes On. Written by Dana Meyers and William Shelby (the pair who would write A Night to Remember for SOLAR labelmates Shalamar), the track epitomizes smooth, sleek soul, with just enough grit to give it an edge. From its synth and guitar intro to handclap-heavy breakdown, the single was class writ large. It reached number nine and stayed on the charts through most of that year’s spring.

There is a great deal to enjoy aside from the single: the title-track is smooth grooving jazz-funk; Say You (Would You Love Me Too) highlights the group’s doo-wop roots. Standout dance track Up on Soul Train was the theme for the long-running and influential US TV show between 1980 and 1983.

The album became the group’s biggest UK seller, charting briefly, reaching number 43 in early 1981. Although not an earthshaking addition to anyone’s collection, Imagination is a perfect example of well-made, high-production-value west coast soul that remains a beguiling listen.