1979's "The Message is Love" was Barry White's first release from his own Unlimited Gold label. The album is a mixture of the 70's White with a stab at moving into the new decade of the 80's.

There is a greater dance influence in the first four tracks, but it's on the slower tracks where the singer/songwriter does his best work. "Love Ain't Easy", co-written by White and Paul Politi bears a unmistakeable similarity to White's successful cover of Billy Joel's "Just the Way You Are." Robert Jason's "I'm on Fire" is, perhaps in praise of White's then-wife Glodean.

The best track, entitled "I Found Love", has a mid-tempo beat and is a find for White fans. Beginning with the trademark "rap", the song (that hints at a possible ménage a trois) allows both man and band to "do their thing".

A gem like this one won't be found on a "compilation", and that, for his fans, is a travesty.

This album is very smooth and very relaxing to listen to. I even love to listen to it while I am working out. The album is off the hook!