It's Fantasy

by Justin M. Kantor Far from being amongst Stewart's most unique work, this set's best function is as inoffensive background music. Originally released in 1988 as Time for Fantasy and since licensed by a plethora of international labels who've released it under numerous titles, the content is primarily comprised of safe MOR entries like "Heartache to Heartache," "Run in the Night," and "Window Shopping." A few standout moments happen during the riveting "Stand" and the plaintive ballad "It's You and Me." In addition, "Dusty Road" is a lyrically rich, jazzy number that suits the singer's subtle but spunky style well. On the other hand, her covers of the System's "You Are in My System" and Brenda K. Starr's "I Still Believe" are disappointingly soulless. And Greg Walsh's straight-ahead production style doesn't give her nearly as much room to fly as she had on other 1980s efforts such as I'm Gonna Get Your Love and Amii Stewart. If one can find this disc in one of its budget pressings, it's worth the chance, but otherwise, it's better passed up in favor of the aforementioned albums, as well as My Heart and I and 1986's Amii.