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Ten City Builds A Strong "Foundation"

Reginald L. Davenport | Springville, UT United States | 02/17/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"What can be said about this group and this album? For starters the timing could not have been any better: House was starting to gain national attention and the release of this album paved the way for Chicago artists to get their props. This is one of the greatest House albums ever made. It is the culmination of years of of blood, sweat and tears in the Chicago underground circuit, particularly on the part of the album's writers and producers: Byron Stingily and Marshall Jefferson. Byron had been laying down vocals for independent label Bright Star since at least 1986. Marshall championed the use of real instruments, the continued use of the classic 70's disco sound and the creation of real "songs" in House music. He was without a doubt one of the hottest producers for the independent Trax label. When Ten City released "Devotion" on Atlantic in 1987 it was the beginning of a special time for the Chicago Scene. Later on, the release of the album solidified Marshall Jefferson as a name to be reckoned with in the producing arena and Ten City as a legitimate House group. The album "Foundation" is packed with just plain good music. "That's The Way Love Is" has a lovely bassline, excellent orchestration and great harmonized vocals. Add the lyrics that anyone young or old can relate to and you have a timeless classic. "Suspicious" has Marshall Jefferson written all over it. Hypnotic bassline and smooth vocals. And let's not forget those lyrics that are very 'real'. "Satisfaction" is one of my favorite tracks on the album, simply because it speaks to my soul. This is another classic Marshall Jefferson output. All of the elements are there and mixed together to perfection -- simple bassline and melodies, real instruments, powerful lyrics and the classic 70's disco sound. My other favorite track is "For You". I think it is safe to say that this has to be a favorite of anyone from the New Jersey area -- it has that sort of flavor! Again the elements are there and tightly woven to make you dance!The album is awesome and would make a great addition to your music library. Don't just take my word for it; these guys even made an appearance in the May 4, 1990 edition of USA Today, Section D. I remember this because I still have the article - laminated!"