Surface Surface Album: A Deep Dive into the Iconic Debut
The self-titled debut album, Surface Surface, by the band Surface, remains a significant landmark in the history of late 1980s R&B and contemporary jazz. Released in 1986, the Surface Surface album not only introduced the world to the silky smooth vocals and sophisticated musical arrangements that would become their trademark, but also set the stage for a string of hits that defined an era. This article will explore the impact and legacy of the Surface Surface album, examining its key tracks, musical influences, and lasting influence on subsequent generations of artists.
The Genesis of Surface
Before the release of the groundbreaking Surface Surface album, the band Surface was formed in New Jersey in the early 1980s. The core members, David Townsend, David Conley, and Bernard Jackson, brought diverse musical backgrounds to the project. Townsend, a former member of the Isley Brothers, contributed his songwriting and instrumental talents. Conley’s production expertise and Jackson’s distinctive vocals completed the trio. Their combined talents created a unique sound that blended elements of R&B, funk, and jazz, a sound that was fully realized on the Surface Surface album.
The group’s name, Surface, reflected their intention to create music that was both accessible and profound, scratching beneath the surface of typical pop sensibilities to deliver something more meaningful. This mission statement clearly resonates throughout the Surface Surface album.
Track-by-Track Analysis of Surface Surface
The Surface Surface album is a carefully curated collection of songs that showcase the band’s versatility and songwriting prowess. From upbeat dance tracks to soulful ballads, each song on the album contributes to its overall appeal.
“Falling in Love”
The opening track, “Falling in Love,” is an energetic and infectious song that immediately grabs the listener’s attention. Its catchy melody and upbeat tempo set the tone for the rest of the album. The song’s lyrics explore the excitement and anticipation of new romance, themes that resonated with audiences at the time and continue to do so today. “Falling in Love” became a hit single, further cementing the Surface Surface album’s popularity.
“Happy”
Another standout track on the Surface Surface album is “Happy.” This mid-tempo song features Jackson’s smooth vocals and a sophisticated instrumental arrangement. The lyrics celebrate the joy of finding true happiness in love, offering a message of hope and optimism. “Happy” showcases the band’s ability to create songs that are both musically sophisticated and emotionally resonant. The production quality on “Happy” is particularly noteworthy, highlighting the band’s attention to detail and commitment to creating a polished sound. The song’s success helped to further elevate the Surface Surface album in the charts.
“Let’s Try Again”
“Let’s Try Again” delves into the complexities of relationships, showcasing a more vulnerable side of the band. The song’s introspective lyrics and melancholic melody create a poignant atmosphere. Jackson’s emotive vocals convey the pain and regret of a relationship on the rocks, making “Let’s Try Again” a powerful and relatable song. This track demonstrates the band’s ability to explore deeper emotional themes within the context of their smooth R&B sound. It is a critical component of the Surface Surface album’s overall impact.
“Stop Holding Back”
This track is a more upbeat offering on the Surface Surface album. “Stop Holding Back” encourages listeners to embrace life and pursue their dreams without hesitation. The song’s positive message and catchy chorus make it an instant crowd-pleaser. The instrumental arrangement features prominent use of synthesizers and drum machines, reflecting the prevailing musical trends of the 1980s. “Stop Holding Back” exemplifies the band’s ability to blend contemporary sounds with their signature smooth R&B style.
Musical Influences and Production Style
The Surface Surface album reflects a wide range of musical influences, from classic soul and funk to contemporary R&B and jazz. The band’s ability to seamlessly blend these influences is one of the key factors behind their unique sound. The production style on the album is characterized by its attention to detail and its use of state-of-the-art recording technology. The band’s meticulous approach to production resulted in a polished and sophisticated sound that set them apart from their contemporaries. [See also: The Rise of Synthesizers in 1980s Music]
The use of synthesizers and drum machines is particularly prominent on the Surface Surface album, reflecting the prevailing musical trends of the 1980s. However, the band also incorporated live instrumentation, such as guitars and keyboards, to create a more organic and dynamic sound. This blend of electronic and acoustic elements is a hallmark of the Surface sound.
The Impact and Legacy of Surface Surface
The Surface Surface album had a significant impact on the music industry, helping to pave the way for a new generation of R&B artists. The album’s success demonstrated the commercial appeal of sophisticated and musically complex R&B, challenging the prevailing notion that R&B had to be either overtly commercial or deeply rooted in traditional blues and gospel. Surface’s innovative approach to R&B helped to broaden the genre’s appeal and attract a wider audience. The album’s influence can be heard in the music of countless artists who followed in their footsteps.
The Surface Surface album also played a key role in establishing the band as a major force in the music industry. The album’s success led to numerous awards and accolades, including a Grammy nomination. The band’s subsequent albums further cemented their reputation as one of the most innovative and influential R&B groups of their era. The legacy of the Surface Surface album continues to resonate today, inspiring new generations of artists and music fans. [See also: Contemporary R&B and Its Roots]
The songs from the Surface Surface album continue to be played on radio stations and streamed online, demonstrating their enduring popularity. The album has also been reissued on numerous occasions, attesting to its continued relevance. The Surface Surface album remains a testament to the band’s talent and vision, and a reminder of the power of music to connect with people on a deep emotional level. The album showcases the unique sound of Surface and remains a classic in the genre. The Surface Surface album is a must-listen for any fan of R&B, contemporary jazz, or 1980s music in general. The album is available on all major streaming platforms, allowing new generations to discover the magic of Surface. The Surface Surface album is a timeless masterpiece that continues to inspire and delight listeners around the world. The Surface Surface album is a critical piece of musical history that should not be overlooked.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Surface Surface album is a landmark achievement in the history of R&B and contemporary jazz. The album’s innovative blend of musical styles, its sophisticated production, and its emotionally resonant lyrics have made it a timeless classic. The Surface Surface album not only launched the band’s career but also helped to shape the sound of R&B for years to come. The enduring popularity of the album is a testament to its artistic merit and its ability to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level. The Surface Surface album remains a must-listen for anyone interested in the history of R&B and the evolution of popular music.
