Jerry Butler
's sophomore effort, and his first recorded for
Vee-Jay
, is more suited to his talents than his debut. True, there are several tracks packed with an over-reaching orchestra, similar to
Jerry Butler, Esq
. Still, the addition of old friend
Curtis Mayfield
as a co-composer (and backing vocalist) for four tracks gives an edge to
Butler
's grand, sweeping performances. Three
/
Mayfield
tracks -- the title song,
"The Gift of Love,"
and
"I Found a Love"
-- are the highlights here, along with
's own
"Sweet Was the Wine."
As usual, the strings and vocal choruses aren't much of a stumbling block to
's gentle swing and powerful voice. ~ John Bush