As their founder, songwriter, producer, and lead singer, Frankie Beverly is inextricably linked with Maze, one of the key R&B acts of the '70s and '80s, and a beloved performing group that continued to thrive well into the next century. Starting with their 1977 debut, Beverly and Maze honed a relaxed, rich, and joyous sound that promoted positivity and remained unique throughout their existence. While firmly rooted in Philadelphia -- if based in San Francisco -- Maze were distinct from the Philly soul groups, comparatively pared down if just as musical, and while much of what ...