I'm one of the biggest fans of classic soul/r&b on the planet, and as such I'm NOT a huge fan of much post-1984 r&b. This later album by Pendergrass, however, is one of the rare exceptions. Despite the larger presence of electronic beats and drum machines on this album, compared to earler Pendergrass/Philadelphia International/Gamble & Huff releases, this 1988 release is a true throwback to a time when the music mattered the most......and actual talent dictated the pace of songs and the way they were written. I picked this up at a bargain price, and I must say that I was shocked by the quality of the CD, from the first song to the last. The electonic instruments are used effectively for the most part and are never overwhelming, but instead do an effective job of imitating old-fashioned soul arrangements. Other than the first two songs on the CD ("Joy" and "2 a.m."......the two single releases), I was unfamiliar with the album. But incredibly, Pendergrass is in fine form throughout and never sounded better. You'd never guess Pendergrass was paralyzed in a car accident just a few years before. The entire album maintains an incredibly romantic, wistful feel.......perfect for any evening with your special one.......or even for yourself when you want to relax to smooth soul. "This Is The Last Time" is a standout track, and the female backup singers are extremely effective on this disc........they themselves throwbacks to old call-and-respond soul. Think of this disc as an old-time church for love! Does it match TP's earlier albums? Amazingly, yes. This is, in my opinion, his best album since "Life Is a Song Worth Singing," ......and it nearly matches his self-titled debut. Though nothing can match his classic "Harold Melvin and the Bluenotes" days, this disc is about as good as soul gets in the late 80s. A rare display of true soulful talent in an era pretty much devoid of honest soul (Perhaps only Franklie Beverly & Maze's later albums could still truly lay that claim)..........if you're an r&b fanatic, or a fan of Philly soul, I'd highly recommend Teddy Pendergrass' "Joy" album.