Rags to Rufus, the second LP from the pop group turned soul band, is most notable for lead singer Chaka Khan's inspired performances. The album's two hit singles, Stevie Wonder's sexy "Tell Me Something Good" and Khan's "You Got the Love" derive both their tension and charm from her tough, sexy vocals. She consistently transcends the limited group-written material and the competent but thin instrumental work by singing with a pliancy reminiscent of Stevie wonder and a straining for glory reminiscent of Aretha Franklin.

Since Rags to Rufus's release, the group has made massive personnel changes that will hopefully provide Chaka Khan with a more solid foundation and superior material. But it should be noted that there are other gratifying tracks here: Both Ashford & Simpson's "Ain't Nothin' but a Maybe" and bassist Dennis Belfield's "In Love We Grow" provide her with ballad material that proves she makes as convincing a lady in love as she does a femme fatale. Rufus may be another band in transition, but Chaka Khan is already a mature talent. (RS 175)

BUD SCOPPA