"Circles" by Atlantic Starr

Song#:  0959
Date:  03/27/1982
Debut:  90
Peak:  38
Weeks:  11
Genre:  R&B



Pop Bits:  Consisting of nine (!) members, Atlantic Starr signed with A&M and issued a self-titled debut album in 1978. It was a minor success, as was their next three LPs, thanks to a few Top 20 R&B singles. None of their songs were able to crossover to pop until this first single from their fourth album "Brilliance." It reached the Top 40 (#2 R&B) and it seemed like the group was ready to break through. Eventually they did, but it wouldn't happen for another three years. In the meantime, the LP became their first to reach gold status.

ReduxReview:  Before becoming known for their hit AC-ish ballads, the group was pumping out some nice jams like this one. It doesn't really stay in your head for long, but it's a good listen with lead vocalist Sharon Bryant rockin' it out. I prefer this earlier, funkier iteration of Atlantic Starr music to their later saccharine crossover hits.

ReduxRating:  6/10

Trivia:  The group originally began as a jazz/funk outfit called Newban (like "new band," get it?). They issued a couple of albums in 1977, but not much came from them. Signing to A&M, the label requested a name change and the band chose to use a previous name idea, Starr, combined with Atlantic, which was the region where the group was founded (New York).

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