CYNDI LAUPER
TRUE COLORS
SEPTEMBER 27, 1986
“Sophomore slump” are words that will not follow Cyndi Lauper's second release. True Colors lets the up-beat fly while getting deeper into a lyrical base that is strong in content. Again, Lauper co-wrote 6 tracks and has great guest appearances with the likes of THE BANGLES, BILLY JOEL and AIMEE MANN.
Co-writing with Rick Derringer had to be one of the highlights as his song "Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo" was and is in heavy rotation on all Rock Radio Stations. When he was just 17 years old he recorded "Hang on Sloopy" with his band THE McCOYS in 1965, so his contribution is exemplary. "Maybe He'll Know" with Billy Joel is a direct reflection of the work that Joel has done over the past several years. It seems to be a bit of a tribute to the Doo-Wop of days long since faded but kept alive by some of today's top pop artists.
The remaking of MARVIN GAYE'S "Whats going On" opens the doors and draws in yet another genre of music proving that Lauper is a full and complete artist. She never seems to run from any challenges and wants her fans to be as affected by the sounds that got her to the stage as she was listening to the originals. Some writers do not appreciate cover songs on albums consisting mainly of new music. I believe it puts us directly in the line of thought of the artist. When they allow the listener inside it almost explains how they got to where they are musically.
The album cover shows a clear musical change with a more mature look with browns of sand. Lauper looking in the water at her own reflection tells of the stories that can be found within this 10 track piece of work. She wants her music to be fun but with an essence of growth which will give her shows a fantastic balance. This can be found in the song "True Colors" which is the best track on this release, letting Lauper explore a more quiet edge with soft music streaming under her ever sultry voice. She draws you in to her emotional sounding vocals, bringing you to the brink of understanding that we all are different but still the same.
9/27/86