Released in late 1987,
Wendy and Lisa was the debut by
Wendy Melvoin and
Lisa Coleman after they left
Prince's much loved band,
the Revolution. Although
Sign 'O' the Times was justifiably heralded as a masterpiece,
Melvoin and
Coleman both possessed an energy and prowess that some felt was missing from that effort and those that followed. Luckily, a good part of those charms show up on this album. The deceptively simple "Honeymoon Express" has a propulsive energy mixed with effortless and recondite vocals, especially on the chorus. Given the pair's work with
Prince, it's no surprise that the best songs here are conflicted and thought-provoking.
Melvoin's off-centered and oddly sensual vocals never fail to impress, as does
Coleman's keyboard shading and composing. The insinuating "Everything But You" is one of the more true-to-life and honest love songs you're likely to hear. The best track, "Stay," is suitably dark and oddly reassuring, and made became an instant classic. Everything's not great here, though: "Chance to Grow" and the instrumental "White" both meander. Produced by
Coleman,
Melvoin, and
Revolution drummer
Bobby Z,
Wendy and Lisa lasted well beyond its release date and is one fulfilling effort. [The 2006 edition offers four bonus tracks.] ~ Jason Elias