When we published the Latin Quarter story, with discography, in GOOD TIMES issues numbers 1, 2, 4, nobody thought of a resurrection of the band. Now the band, perhaps the most important of the '80's, which so impressively carried forward the traditions of creative '60's pop, consists "only" of the founding members Steve Skaith (guitar, vocals) and Richard Wright (guitar). Skaith, the leader, seems to have completely left behind the 1985 concept of two female vocalists to one male (Skaith himself), with which he made his records and concerts exciting and varied. The impressive ex-Latin Quarter singer Yona Dunsford only appears on the new CD as a guest singer on 'The Desert Rose' and on a few further songs on background vocals.

However, Skaith continues his (since 1984) successful collaboration with lyricist Mike Jones. Jones mentions his previous themes of racism and Nicaragua only marginally and shines here with 13 astute, accusing and thought provoking stories about the environment, corruption, war, loneliness etc. Jones is a direct, ruthless prosecutor, which pop music so urgently needs. It's therefore even more annoying that the band and their record company have decided for the first time to do without German translations of the lyrics. They are absolutely necessary, as Jones writes very difficult lyrics, for which one needs a good knowledge of English to translate into German. A great pity!

Musically Skaith has kept his virtues intact. Exceptionally melodic, well arranged songs (production Skaith/Wright) make the CD highlight of 1993. Naturally it's not a comfortable record - but quality has always been more difficult to sell than the mainstream average. Important is the fact that Skaith, Wright and Jones continue - as conscience rousers, admonishers AND as good musicians. Maybe they'll decide to integrate a good female vocalist into the band again after all.

LQ fans shouldn't ignore the 'Like A Miracle' CD-single, because with two previously unreleased live songs; 'Hiding' and 'The Ballad Of Felipe Escobar,' the band are offering two lovely bonus tracks. (Peter Seeger, Good Times, Issue 9, December 1993, Translated by Maja Grings)
 

Best Album of 1993 - Peter Seeger editor of Good Times music magazine

Best Album of 1993 - Claudia Wedeleit of Good Times music magazine