This import CD is actually a compilation of two albums from the late 1970s: "The Michael Johnson Album" and "Dialogue." The former features highlights, including "Bluer Than Blue," the poignant ballad that dealt with a breakup, which was Michael Johnson's first hit single back in 1978, and "Almost Like Being in Love," Johnson's cover of a Frank Sinatra tune.
The first 10 songs are from "Dialogue," an album originally released in 1979. Included is another hit single, "This Night Won't Last Forever," a song remade years later by country artist Sawyer Brown. (Incidentally, in the 1980s, Johnson achieved success on the country charts, with hits such as "Give Me Wings.") There are a few up-tempo numbers on this CD, including "Let This Be a Lesson to You," "I Just Can't Say No to You," and "Blackmail" (Johnson's nod to disco). But I think Johnson is in his element with a heart-wrenching ballad, and there are quite a few to relish here: I especially like "I'll Always Love You," "She Put the Sad in All His Songs," "The Very First Time," and "Doors."
And somehow, when I hear the title song, "Dialogue," I am always moved and maybe a little saddened. The lyrics to this song are printed on the CD's back cover, as they were on the original album cover. With this triumphant song, a mood is clearly created regarding the subject of life's choices and taking chances versus playing it safe.
It has taken almost a quarter century for most of these songs to be available on CD, and it is a pleasure to hear them as such. Michael Johnson has a soothing voice that always entertains...and moves.