Ready for the World

Flexing a unique sound that combined funk, R&B, rock and new wave, Ready For The World drew comparisons to other acts like Prince and Cameo. On their self-titled debut album, the Michigan group scored several major hits. Eighties aficionados will instantly recognize their quintessential single "Oh Sheila."

"I want your lips/I even want your tongue, love": Melvin Riley Jr. puts into words the erotic aspirations that have motivated love men since the first falsetto seduction. From wet ballad to videogame beat, the Prince influence is so palpable it's almost comic and so brazen it could take your breath away. But where Prince thinks sex is nasty, Melvin makes nice-nice. La-la means he'll f*ck you. (Grade - B+)