Magic Touch (DEB, 1978)

15-16-17 was a British trio of young girls whose ages were, in fact, 15, 16, and 17 when they formed in the '70s.  I guess they weren’t counting on longevity.  And, true to form, just like the DEB label on which they recorded, they didn’t last long (although I've read that one of the original members is still performing with two new members).  Magic Touch contains several of the singles that 15-16-17 released on DEB, but the album itself was sadly never released.  But, lucky you, DEB re-formed in 2004 and is finally making this enchanting set available (baddamusic.com)!  Boasting a classic British lovers rock style similar to fellow short-lived '70s teenie-boppers Brown Sugar (featuring a young Caron Wheeler of Soul II Soul fame), 15-16-17's sound ranges from cutesy, fun, and youthful -- sort of like a reggae version of TLC -- on "Girls Imagination" (a clever remake of The Temptations' "Just My Imagination" from the girl's point of view), "I've Been Watching You," and their take on The Supremes' "Baby Love" to a sultriness that exceeds their ages on "Someone Special," the ethereal "The Weather," and a lovely cover of The Bee Gees' "Emotions" (also a hit for Destiny's Child).  Understandably, 15-16-17 didn't have the greatest singing voices, but for their ages, they were pretty darn good.  Just as impressive is their poise and confidence; you don’t glean a hint of inexperience in their compelling performances.  Catchy and accessible without being overly poppy or sentimental, the songs on Magic Touch have, well, the magic touch.  Even the ones that were previously unreleased -- "Funny Feeling," "I’ve Been Watching You," "The Weather," and the title track -- have a soothing, old-fashioned harmony that makes you wish there was more to be heard from this group.