Phil caught my ears in 1991 with his debut The Heart Of The Man on Capitol Records, featuring Amazing Love, (Forever) In The Arms Of Love and his outstanding Cover of Aretha's Call Me. 3 years on he was on GRP/MCA with a more Jazz-influenced album (Pure Pleasure). 1998 saw him on Private Music/Peak with One Heart One Love. In 2000 he presented us his Book Of Love.
It's obvious that Phil is not your young attractive singer like Kenny Lattimore or Chico DeBarge. And in times like this, where the image and the ability to appeal to the masses win mostly over the quality of the music, it's no wonder Phil Perry has no contract with a major label. He may be difficult to sell to the average Joe Doe, but on the other hand having no major label that compromises your music for mass consumption may result in a higher quality of the music. And so it happens once again with Phil Perry's new album.
Those who know his music, know what to expect. Soulful songs dealing about love, love and love (with the exception of In The Morning (Father's Lullaby) maybe). But with a voice like his who wants to hear some songs about failures of modern society ? Ok, Magic is not really innovative, but you get perfect music for relaxing and late evenings with someone special. All songs were co-written by Mr. Perry with the likes of Barry J. Eastmond, Russ Freeman or Chris Davis, except for the two Isley covers of Living For The Love Of You and Groove With You (that was also done excellent by Giorge Pettus years ago). Phil's music fills the same niche like for example Will Downing or Jon Lucien, although he hasn't that deep voice of these two.