The Very Best Of Oleta Adams

Her name may not be as instantly recognizable as Anita Baker's, but if you're a fan of Baker, you're bound to love Adams. After working toward a solid reputation in her native Kansas, she was discovered while working a hotel-lounge gig by Roland Orzabal of Tears for Fears and became one of the band's regular guests (their "Woman in Chains" is included here). This collection includes an impressive list of contributors (including Irene Cara on backing vocals) and worldwide hits like "Get Here," an emotional tearjerker that showcase's Adams's amazing voice. Many tracks veer into MOR territory (what else can you expect with a cover of "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me"?) and straight-out-of-a-musical style ("Embraceable You"); if you're looking for more funk in your soul, your best bet is "Rhythm of Life." --Rebecca Wallwork