Leon Ware is a perfect example of a vocalist who is much better known for his songwriting, producing, and arranging than his singing. As a songwriter/producer, he's truly a heavyweight, but Ware's own albums haven't given us a lot of major hits. If you're a serious soul collector, chances are that you have a lot of Ware's songs in your collection, even if you don't have any of his own LPs or CDs. It was in 1995 that Ware released the pleasing Taste the Love on his Kitchenware label. Seductive, smooth offerings like "I Got Your Recipe," "Cream of Love," and "Come Live with Me, Angel" recall Marvin Gaye's romantic '70s recordings (as opposed to his socio-political songs such as "Inner City Blues" and "What's Going On," or a party tune like "Got to Give It Up"), and that's no coincidence -- Ware co-wrote Gaye's sexy 1976 hits "I Want You" and "After the Dance." You won't find a lot of fast, uptempo numbers on this CD; Ware maintains a lush, romantic atmosphere and gives us an enjoyable collection of R&B/pop mood music. For those who have savored the romantic side of Gaye and the Isley Brothers, Taste the Love is definitely worth hunting for. ~ Alex Henderson