Tim Curry - Fearless (1979)

"I Do the Rock" was the "heavy" MTV hit (it made the Top 100 at number 91) on this record, the reason Tim Curry is considered a one-hit wonder, although with his acting career who would care. Totally assembled from the fads of the era, with the slurpy saxophone of David Sanborn thrust in thy face like a jumbo-size drink of the same distinction, Fearless highlights the aggressive stance Curry took when in front of a microphone. Variations from the thump and bump include a Joni Mitchell cover, not a good idea, since the result can seriously be compared to William Shatner's recordings of Bob Dylan, and not just because it is another example of a fine actor doing material by a great songwriter. Much of the program is written by Curry in collaboration with Michael Kamen, a composer better known for his soundtrack efforts, and the producer and guitarist for Dick Wagner. The latter artist composed the showpiece ballad "S.O.S." but donning his producer's hat, he seems somewhat indecisive about whether to bury Curry's imitation of Joe Cocker or slather reverb on it. High-priced studio talent fills out the instrumental side of things, so the music at least shimmers with professional aplomb.