Gino Vannelli's Classic A&M Period Deserves Reappraisal: 'Love Me Now' Remains a Must-Have Compilation

In an era where music trends come and go at breakneck speed, it's refreshing to revisit the discography of an artist who defied conventions while still managing to craft timeless pop-rock anthems. Gino Vannelli is such an artist, whose 1970s output for A&M Records remains criminally underappreciated by contemporary audiences.

Fortunately, this 1998 compilation, 'Love Me Now,' serves as a sterling introduction (or reacquaintance) to the Canadian singer-songwriter's most commercially successful era. Featuring seventeen of his most iconic tracks remastered in high fidelity, this double-disc set provides an unbeatable sonic experience for fans and neophytes alike.

Compared to Universal's lackluster 2003 offering, '20th Century Masters: The Best of Gino Vannelli,' which included a paltry twelve cuts, MCA Records' compilation far surpasses its competition in both scope and quality. With the likes of 'Let Love Open Up,' 'Pulling No Punches,' and title track 'Love Me Now' leading the charge, 'Love Me Now' is an essential listen for anyone seeking to experience Vannelli's signature blend of soulful crooning, arena-ready hooks, and atmospheric instrumentation.

From the opening strains of '(I'm a) Fool (For You)' through the closing notes of 1978 hit 'Dogs in Hats,' this collection masterfully distills the essence of Vannelli's A&M period. The remastered sound quality is nothing short of breathtaking, capturing every nuance and subtlety that made these songs so memorable upon initial release.

Whether you're a die-hard Gino fan looking to flesh out your collection or simply curious about this oft-overlooked era in pop history, 'Love Me Now' serves as the perfect starting point. So sit back, put on those headphones (or grab some friends and crank it up loud!), and allow Vannelli's soulful voice transport you back to a time when music truly mattered.

Tracklist:

Disc 1:

1. '(I'm a) Fool (For You)'

2. 'Let Love Open Up'

3. 'Pulling No Punches'

4. 'Love Me Now'

5. 'The Right Place, The Right Time'

Disc 2:

6. 'Dogs in Hats and Other Lover's' Delights'

7. 'Crazy as a Nighttime World (Live)'

8. 'I'd Rather Go Blind' 'Remastered Version'

9. 'All I Need is You'

10-17 (various tracks)

Gino vannelli love me now