The Family Stand - Moon In Scorpio (1991)

The Family Stand's small but loyal following argued that Moon in Scorpio was simply too ambitious and too creative for urban contemporary radio, and they're right. Much of the material was too rock-minded for R&B stations, and even the CD's less guitar-heavy offerings (such as "The Education of Jamie," "Plantation Radio," and the Prince-like "Quiet Desperation") didn't make the playlists of stations that were only interested in finding the next Guy clone or yet another Teddy Riley wannabe. "Plantation Radio," in fact, lambasts urban radio's frustrating conservatism. But while Moon in Scorpio wasn't a huge commercial hit, its meaty blend of R&B and rock was a creative triumph. One can hear a variety of soul and rock influences on this album -- not only Prince and Sly & the Family Stone, but also, Ike & Tina Turner and Mother's Finest. In fact, Sandra St. Victor's gritty vocals bear a definite resemblance to MF singer Joyce Kennedy, while Peter Lord's singing has a Prince-like quality. Although such comparisons are well and good, it's important to stress that the Family Stand is a fine band in its own right. Moon in Scorpio is an underexposed gem that's well worth searching for. © Alex Henderson