With the release of "Rapture" in 1986, Anita Baker singlehandedly introduced the "Quiet Storm" genre, a rich blend of jazz, pop, and soul, to the masses. Finding the likes of "Sweet Love" and "Caught Up in the Rapture" on pop radio was always a rich treat, and her popularity helped foster a taste for mature pop.

Years after its release, "Rapture" is still as smooth and sweet as ever. Anita's smoky, Sarah Vaughan-influenced vocals are flawlessly showcased in a worthy set of songs set to spotless production. Songs like "No One in the World" and the uptempo "Same Ole Love" are among Baker's staples in adult contemporary radio, and jazz stations and fans alike will likely never tire of the lush and soulful "Been So Long," one of Baker's all-time classics that gives an example of the perfect scat.

Elsewhere, Baker gives what is arguably her most soulful performance ever on "You Bring Me Joy," and a sultry cover of Manhattan Transfer's "Mystery" easily trumps the original. The fact that Baker still performs most of these songs in her concerts proves that "Rapture" is a sentimental treasure for many a music fan, and one listen to the record's flawless execution makes it easy to see why.

In a world full of spiced up, digitally mastered and re-mastered electric, glossed-over albums, we should all be thankful for an album such as this. Great musicians combined with a great lady come out to make a damn near perfect album. Anita Baker made her mark with "Rapture." It left its imprint on the industry and ears of millions, who haven't recovered yet. A timeless classic, Baker single-handedly invinted the "quiet storm" genre with "Rapture," and in the process became known as one of the most adored rhythm and blues songstresses ever. Having little to nothing in common with her contemporaries who sing of love and heartache without knowing the first thing about it, one truly feels a difference in the soft, sexy, and last (but not least) relaxing voice of Anita Baker. Few artists have the control or power over their voices as she does. She uses her god-given vocals like a chiseling tool, careful to carve out just the right sculpture. And with tracks such as "Sweet Love," "You Bring Me Joy," "No One In The World," and "Same Ole Love," it becomes evident, how great of an artist she truly is.

When Anita Baker sings "You Bring Me Joy" it sounds like a wondrous gospel song! So rich and fulfilling, she lets it all out in this one!! "Been So Long" has deep smokey tones alternating with gorgeous highs and everything in between. Anita proves with her loose and free vocal that she is truly a jazz diva! On "Mystery" Anita soars into a vocal bliss! The emotional tones in "No One In The World" rise into the stratosphere! This is an exceptional vocal and the ultimate love/blues song!! "Watch Your Step" is a hot, upbeat song. This cd is one of Anita's soulful best!!!

Whew! This album is an oldie but goodie that always sounds refreshing and new just like your first time hearing it.

Do you remember when originality, creativity and mind-bending talent were prerequisites for professional singers?

Do you remember when a solo artist/group put out a 10-track album AND ALL 10 TRACKS were classic?

Even if you don't, you need to hear this Anita Baker debut because class is in session!

Baker truly was an innovator who bridged old school soul with new 1980s flavor. She's got a more classic, more refined sound and a more deeply understated vocal approach than your Whitney Houstons and Mariah Careys of the music world.

If you're into artists like Roberta Flack, Nancy Wilson, Sade and some of Toni Braxton's earlier work, you'll love this LP if you haven't already heard it.

Outstanding musicianship and a relaxed, soulful vibe are this album's high points.

Given the more high energy, in-your-face bruskness of the majority of today's R&B, Baker's laid back energy is a welcomed change a of pace that makes this debut seem all the more incredible, enjoyable and relevant.

This LP is from a different time in music history. Recommended!

This is simply one of those recordings that is a must have for those who love first class, essential, Rhythm & Blues done by a gifted vocalist with a first class voice. She has that combination of range, power and knows when and how to use it.

Not to make you think that she is a jazz vocalist or that this is a jazz recording, which it is not, but the most obvious comparison I can make in richness of voice, power of delivery and inventive phrase, would be Sarah Vaughan. Trust me that is BIG company. That is a very good thing. Vocalists like that come along every few decades.

Most importantly she has the soul and heart of a true romantic. These songs just go straight to the heart of you. No vocal acrobatics at the expense of the song or the intended sentiment. When she belts it out, it is at the moment in which the intensity is necessary.

Most of these pieces are ballads and all are love songs but they are delivered with sophistication, sensuality, sincerity and power.

When I first heard this and then saw her perform this, she held me transfixed.

The poignancy of "No One In The Word", "Rapture", "Sweet Love", "Mystery" and "You Bring Me Joy" amidst good solid instrumentation, make these five pieces true high points and memorable R&B. The pieces have something that is often lost these days. That ability to shift to accentuate a point of mood and then back again.

There is a lithe sensuality throughout this recording that is missing from much of the so called quiet storm recordings where romance is lost for the schmaltz or sexuality.

There is a a balance. Throughout Anita delivers with as fine a voice as I've heard before or since. She has a beautiful rich voice. Round tones and an impressive range. When she belts it out she does so in context and not as a means on to itself.

More people should know of this recording.

Anita Baker is one of a kind and if you get just one Anita Baker recording, get this one, you won't be sorry.