Alex Bugnon - This Time Around

This is likely the best Alex Bugnon album you've never heard of. Released in 1993, "This Time Around" is miles ahead of its conteporaries with its elegant production and excellent song choices.

There are few missteps within an this othewise flawless album. Bugnon's cover of Dolly Parton's "I Will Always Love You" is well-intended, but overproduced. Ditto with the remix of the opening track, "Klook Mop," found at the end of the CD as a bonus track. The rap bridge on "Klook's" remix tries too hard to be hip, and thus fails miserably.

There's plenty to love, however. "Sweet Sticky Thing" is more timeless than the original Ohio Players' version. "The Heart Song" is far less insipid than the title might suggest. Plus, the middle of the album holds some hidden, subtle gems in "Dasheen" and "The Way We Used To Be."

Whether you're new to Alex Bugnon's music or an old fan, "This Time Around" is a good place to start.