by Amy Hanson The debut album by the erstwhile Kinsman Dazz Band, debuting both their newly abbreviated name and their arrival on Motown (following a handful of singles for 20th Century), Invitation to Love was released in 1980 and immediately placed the Dazz Band on the R&B fast track, bathing in a spotlight they wouldn't leave for the better part of a decade. A classic combination of up- and down-tempo grooves, the Dazz Band proved themselves to be strong in multiple genres. At ease with the fiery, classic late-'70s funk sounds of "Shake It Up," which is dominated not only by a fat bass and Bobby Harris' outstanding horns, but by vocals that are very reminiscent of Earth, Wind & Fire, the group was equally at home across the sweet and sensual title track. All smooth grooves, again dominated by horns but supplemented by Sennie Martin III's absolutely stunning soul vocals, "Invitation to Love" was as good a ballad as any out there. Both songs would hit the R&B charts. The Dazz Band kicked up the funk a few more notches across "Magnetized" and "Skate Lovers," while "Beyond the Horizon" closed the set with a string- and horn-driven instrumental. Although their sound would change dramatically as the 1980s unfolded, especially after the success of 1982's "Let It Whip" placed them firmly in a synthesized dance vein, Invitation to Love is still a wonderful introduction to the Dazz Band's early output, capturing them on the cusp of Motown soul and the furious '80s funk that would make their name.