by Alex HendersonFrom 1975-1980, the Brothers Johnson enjoyed a very lucrative association with producer Quincy Jones -- one that brought them both creative and commercial success. And when that association ended after their fourth album, Light Up the Night, their popularity faded. Released in 1981, Winners was the first Brothers Johnson album that Jones didn't produce -- and it was also their first disappointing album. This isn't to say that Winners, which they produced themselves, is a disaster; most of the material is decent. "In the Way," "Caught Up," "Do It for Love," and the single "The Real Thing" (a number 11 R&B hit) are pleasant, likable songs, but they aren't great songs -- and when the Johnson siblings had Jones' guidance and direction, they had no problem providing albums that were excellent instead of merely decent. None of the tunes are terrible, but none of them are in a class with "Strawberry Letter #23," "I'll Be Good to You," or "Ain't We Funkin' Now." Definitely not one of the Brothers Johnson's essential releases, Winners is only recommended to completists.