Surface Surface Album: A Deep Dive into the Band’s Discography and Impact

Surface, the American music group formed in 1983, left an indelible mark on the R&B and contemporary music scene. Their self-titled debut, often referred to as the Surface Surface album, and subsequent releases showcased their signature blend of soulful vocals, intricate harmonies, and innovative production. This article explores the band’s history, dissects their key albums, examines their impact on the music industry, and delves into what made the Surface Surface album so special.

The Genesis of Surface

The trio, comprised of David Townsend, Bernard Jackson, and David Conley, emerged from New Jersey with a sound that was both fresh and deeply rooted in the traditions of soul music. David Townsend, son of the legendary Ed Townsend (co-writer of Marvin Gaye’s “Let’s Get It On”), brought a wealth of musical experience and songwriting prowess to the group. Bernard Jackson’s distinctive lead vocals, coupled with David Conley’s production skills, created a unique sonic landscape that set Surface apart from their contemporaries. The Surface Surface album was the culmination of years of dedication and a deep understanding of the musical landscape.

The Debut Album: Surface (1986)

The self-titled debut album, often called the Surface Surface album to distinguish it, launched the group into the spotlight. Released in 1986, the album featured a collection of tracks that perfectly captured the essence of late 80s R&B. Songs like “Falling in Love” and “Let’s Try Again” became instant hits, showcasing the band’s ability to craft catchy melodies and heartfelt lyrics. The Surface Surface album was a critical and commercial success, establishing the band as a force to be reckoned with.

The album’s production was particularly noteworthy, blending live instrumentation with synthesizers and drum machines to create a sound that was both modern and timeless. The Surface Surface album demonstrated their versatility, from upbeat dance tracks to soulful ballads. The success of this debut set the stage for their future endeavors.

Critical Analysis of Key Tracks

Falling in Love

“Falling in Love” is arguably one of Surface’s most recognizable songs. The infectious melody, coupled with Bernard Jackson’s smooth vocals, made it a radio staple. The song’s lyrics explore the excitement and vulnerability of new love, resonating with audiences of all ages. It’s a cornerstone of the Surface Surface album and a testament to their songwriting abilities.

Happy

A more upbeat and energetic track, “Happy” showcases the band’s ability to create feel-good music. The song’s positive message and catchy chorus made it a popular choice for dance floors and radio airwaves. While often overshadowed by “Falling in Love,” “Happy” is another highlight of the Surface Surface album and demonstrates the band’s range.

Let’s Try Again

This ballad highlights the band’s ability to convey deep emotion through their music. The song’s lyrics explore the complexities of relationships and the importance of perseverance. Bernard Jackson’s vocal performance is particularly powerful, conveying the song’s message with sincerity and conviction. It added depth to the Surface Surface album.

2nd Wave (1988)

Following the success of their debut, Surface released their second album, “2nd Wave,” in 1988. This album further solidified their position as one of the leading R&B groups of the era. Tracks like “Shower Me With Your Love” and “You Are the One” became major hits, showcasing the band’s continued evolution and refinement of their sound. While not the Surface Surface album, it was a crucial album in their discography.

“Shower Me With Your Love” became their biggest hit, reaching the top of the R&B charts and crossing over into the pop charts. The song’s infectious groove and romantic lyrics made it an instant classic. “You Are the One” also achieved significant success, further demonstrating the band’s ability to create memorable and impactful music.

3 Deep (1990)

In 1990, Surface released their third album, “3 Deep.” This album saw the band experimenting with different sounds and styles, incorporating elements of new jack swing and hip-hop into their music. While the album was not as commercially successful as their previous efforts, it still contained several notable tracks, including “The First Time” and “Never Gonna Let You Down.” This album demonstrated a willingness to evolve, despite the shadow of the Surface Surface album.

“The First Time” is a particularly noteworthy track, showcasing the band’s ability to blend R&B with elements of pop and new jack swing. The song’s catchy chorus and upbeat tempo made it a popular choice for radio airplay. Although it marked a shift in sound, it maintained the high quality songwriting that fans expected.

The Band’s Impact on the Music Industry

Surface’s impact on the music industry extends beyond their individual hits. The band’s innovative production techniques and soulful vocals influenced a generation of R&B artists. Their ability to blend different genres and create a sound that was both modern and timeless helped to shape the sound of contemporary music. The Surface Surface album, in particular, served as a blueprint for many aspiring musicians.

Their success also paved the way for other R&B groups to achieve mainstream success. By demonstrating that R&B music could appeal to a wide audience, Surface helped to break down barriers and open doors for future generations of artists. The legacy of the Surface Surface album and their other works continues to inspire musicians today.

The Legacy of the Surface Surface Album

The Surface Surface album remains a classic example of 80s R&B. Its influence can still be heard in contemporary music, and its songs continue to be enjoyed by fans around the world. The album’s success helped to launch Surface into the spotlight and establish them as one of the leading R&B groups of their time.

While the band’s lineup has changed over the years, their music continues to resonate with audiences. The Surface Surface album and their other releases serve as a testament to their talent, creativity, and enduring impact on the music industry. Their smooth harmonies and catchy melodies will forever be associated with the golden age of R&B.

Where are they Now?

Following their initial success, the members of Surface pursued various solo projects and collaborations. While the original lineup is no longer together, their music continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by fans worldwide. The Surface Surface album remains a testament to their talent and their impact on the music industry.

The legacy of Surface lives on through their music, which continues to be streamed, sampled, and covered by artists of all genres. The Surface Surface album, in particular, remains a touchstone for fans of 80s R&B and a reminder of the band’s enduring influence. Their blend of soulful vocals, innovative production, and heartfelt lyrics made them a truly unique and unforgettable group.

Even though the musical landscape has drastically changed since the release of the Surface Surface album, the timeless quality of their music ensures that it will continue to be appreciated for generations to come. The album stands as a monument to their artistry and their lasting contribution to the world of R&B. [See also: Best R&B Albums of the 1980s]

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Surface Surface album was a pivotal moment in the band’s career and a significant contribution to the R&B genre. Its success helped to launch Surface into the spotlight and establish them as one of the leading groups of their time. The album’s timeless songs and innovative production continue to be enjoyed by fans around the world, cementing its place in music history. The enduring legacy of the Surface Surface album is a testament to the band’s talent, creativity, and lasting impact on the music industry. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to their music, the Surface Surface album is an essential listen for anyone interested in the history of R&B.