Mari Wilson – Showpeople (1983)

I was listening to another concert on Radio 2, a cold Sunday afternoon.  I had tuned in to hear a double concert – The Fabulos Poodles (a half comedy band of quirky characters and even quirkier songs) and a singer I hadn’t heard of – Mari Wilson.  Well she was incredible, a strong and clear voice with subtle intonation an early 60s beehive hairdo and vibe.  It was almost love at first listen.  She sung pure ‘pop’ songs with a crystal clear voice which was warm and a reminder (this was the Eighties) of how music used to sound.  In some ways this is timeless music, though it is anchored in the Sixties.  Mari had some success with the album and lead single ‘Just What I Always Wanted’ and it’s follow up ‘Cry Me A River’ but her career dried up.  She continued singing and touring but it was 9 years until she released a new album and then another 14 until a third.  It seems her moment had passed, though she currently tours those early songs to her old fans.  Best on this debut are the two singles but almost every song is a delight – especially ‘Wonderful’, ‘The End Of The Affair’ and ‘Doctor Love’.  Always brings a smile to my face hearing these songs again.