Once in a Lifetime

This is an amazing record with one great song after another. Great for the Romantic in your soul. I was just introduced to his music and fell in love with it the minute it started playing.

It was the mid 80's and I was just getting into smooth jazz. Michael's album on cassette was handed to me by the record store clerk, along with others. I absolutely loved it! Somewhere along the way, I lost the tape! For the last few years I've thought about his work, and vowed to replace the album. Today I'm going to Tower Records to replace that tape....on cd, of course! If you are lucky enough to hear Michael Ruff's voice, sorta' like a Michael Jackson, only smoother, you'll be hooked! I also own a large collection of Brasilian music, as our family is from Brasil. My respect for Ruff's voice and music should have driven me to buy "all of his available work".........I don't know what has kept me from it? Let's just say that this was an awakening day; I'm off to the music store! You should too.

At this time, the only option for buying 'Once in a Lifetime' on CD is to purchase a used copy for $175 (or higher). This is a pity, because this is a truly superb mix of ballads (such as "More than You'll Ever Know" and "Ariel") and more rockier, R&B-flavoured tracks. Alongside the audiophile 'Speaking in Melodies', this is Michael Ruff's best album, in my opinion.Though issued on vinyl in 1984, this album only appeared on CD in Japan, which is why used copies are so scarce and pricey. It is extremely surprising (and regrettable) that this outstanding debut album from a formidable performer hasn't been re-released.However, some of Michael's more recent albums (including 'Feels Good', an excellent live set) are available from his website.

One of my desert island discs. Have had it on vinyl since it was released early eighties but not available on CD.Excellent album with top musicians featured throughout.