Love & Life (Ariwa, 1991)

Looking at the album cover, you might think that this is a trio from the '60s or '70s, but it is in fact a '90s band with a '90s sound.  Like label mate Kofi, the Intense is a British lovers rock act that benefits from the crisp production skills of Mad Professor.   The strongest examples of this enjoyable style are "You Are the One," "I Believe You," "On My Mind," and "Taking Control."   Robbie Rowe's feathery vocals are entrancing, and the three-part harmony is catchy and fun in a Steel Pulse sort of way.  However, unlike Kofi, Intense's material is just not strong enough to carry them through the entire album.  While the sound is likeable, the songs start to sound a bit bland after the half-way point.  Still, for those of you who, like me, enjoy coming across little-known acts, this band provides some quality tunes that you should enjoy without fear of them being overexposed.