Life and Soul Reviews and New Releases

New Link for future posts

2008-11-09T04:32:00.001-08:00

I am slowly migrating my sites to te link below to tidy them up and keep them all in one place. Please go to the following link for future postings

http://mikeashley.wordpress.com/

The best way to use the new site is to go to the category index on the side panel. This then shows the posts under that category, rather than simply listing all postings chronologically.

The main categories thus far are:-

Independent Soul News

Reviews and New Releases

New York Indie Soul Mixer Official Site

Soul Freedom, the portal for our gigs and radio appearances

Mike Ashley, more personal ramblings from me, the author.

Hopefully they will all transfer alright as I will not have time to check all the historic pages.

Thanks for stopping by

Mike

www.lifeandsoulpromotions.co.uk

Darien - If these walls could talk

2008-10-28T11:08:00.000-07:00

Not sure when this is due to drop but is one well worth waiting for. A solid album all the way through with several danceloor friendly tracks.

Just can't wait kicks off in an upbeat style with handclaps, guitar riffa and easy singalong chorus. Gone I guess is more R'n'B dancefloor friendly but still contributing to a strong opening with powerfull beats.

Composure is another top track with excellent instrumentation and an old school feel and one of the top cuts. Where its at, also heavy on the beats and strong on the vocals and a latent hammond organ weaving in and out.

Showya kicks in with a powerful bass and a lazy hypnotic vibe. My Door mellows it down somewhat, an immaculate ballad. Sail Thru is a mellow Stevie esque ballad with a fine trumpet break.

Love Revolution again with strong instrumentation builds into powerful track with lots going on. Nowhere I like a lot, heavy beat, funky organ, laid back vibe, string samples, great guitar work, great vocals.

Saturday is reminiscent of a fun day in the summer just hanging and vibing on the streets. All kinds of things is a funky singalong midtempo ballad, again hammond is prominent.

If these walls could talk, the title track, is an acoustic ballad, allowing appreciation of the vocals and the lyricism, and as it gathers pace it builds into a very prominent track.

An excellent album, very well produced with many top tracks and heartily recommended

Tracks - Just can't wait, Gone, Composure, Where its at, Showya, My Door, Sail Thru, Love Revolution, The Road, Nowhere, WSRD 33.3FM, Saturday, All kinds of things, If these walls could talk, Seasons

http://righteousmusicmedia.com/
http://righteousmusicmedia.com/darien.htm
http://www.myspace.com/Darienonline

Jarrard Anthony - Diary of a Messenger

2008-10-26T05:36:00.000-07:00

Jarrard, Julie Dexter and myself @ISMS2008

Review - This album only available at gigs and by download from the links below. Jarrard's previous albums are both different and diverse, the first (to paraphrase greatly) is more straightforward neo soul, the second being conceptual and off the wall - so his work is always interesting and challenging. And so for a man who carries his guitar all the time and everywhere (or at least pretty much every time I have seen him) and is on standby for any opportunity at any moment, it is probably only right and proper than the next thing would be an acoustic set.

This set therefore allows you to hear Jarrard at his rawest best, uncomplicated, yet strong. A couple of the songs are acoustic versions of songs on the earlier albums but are mostly new (to me, anyway).

These kind of albums tend to not appeal to everyone but they do allow you to get deeper into the artist because it is just him and you, stripped right back, to appreciate the lyrics and the vocals and therefore the talent without all the layering and studio niceties, and it certainly has me looking forward to the next album - what will it be? - due in 2009.

Tracks - What can I do, Stay the night, Right from wrong, Didn't U know, Lovesick
get Over, So Long Farewell

http://www.jarrardanthony.com/
http://www.myspace.com/jarrard

Info:-
What if you could combine Beck and Blackstreet?

Thats the queston Jarrard Anthony dares you to ask when you hear his boundary breaking style that travels over landscapes, through atmospheres, and beyond galaxies of a variety of genres, making stops in Soul, Electronica, Jazz, World, Rock, Pop, and Folk musical constellations. With influences from Earth, Wind, and Fire to Seal and Peter Gabriel, JA creates a complete musical cosmos.

Jarrard Anthony, dubbed by UK webzine Darker Than Blue as “Mr. Independent of R&B”, crooned his way into the independent soul arena in 1999 with the release of “So D-vine” from his debut LP “The Dream”. Substantial radio rotation and popularity throughout the east coast immediately made “So D-vine” an "Underground R&B" classic. In 2000, the project was licensed and released in vinyl format as an EP by the UK based Thermite Records/Stonegroove imprint gaining critical acclaim and the #2 position on UK Urban radio with the title track. With his 2004 release of the LP “Don’t Sleep…Just Dream”, Jarrard Anthony gained a larger US audience and broader international appeal including a UK tour featuring a spot on the Southport Weekender International Music Festival. The music video for ”Sweet Memories”, the first single off the LP, received international airplay and aired on over 200 music video shows throughout the US. Without the support and dollars of a major label, both projects still managed to sell several thousands units via online marketing, independent distributors, multi-song licensing deals and non-stop live performances.

In 2005, while working on a new project, JA met producer, Stico Von Drake and created the sound now known as "Electro-Soul". They quickly began producing and writing what led to JA's latest LP, S.ynergistic E.nergy X.change

With a new acoustic E.P. entitled Diary of a Messenger and a new album on the way for 2009, JA is poised step up from the underground of Urban Soul to the surface of Pop/Soul music culture.

Alex Lattimore- Promise

2008-10-15T13:52:00.000-07:00

I appreciate that this album has been out for a while and has atained some prominence in the UK (plus more to come so I hear, but not sure if this information can be passed on yet!) - but rather than hide this in the Atlanta Review section I thought I ought to give this a place on its own.

It was a bit by chance that I met Alex. I went to a fantastic event with Nikki Wade not knowing that Alex was on the bill. The event called STIR (promoted by main man Cocktails) included art, discussion, food, various 'sales' of art and craft related goods, vote registration, comedy and music. The event is necely captured on photographer Kat Goduco's website - http://katgoduco.com/2008/09/24/pictures-stir-hosted-by-cocktails-91908/

Ozara Ode was on the bill who I knew and it was great to hear her perform, but I was taking a break, having a look around, and then all of a sudden the quality of the performance, very Luther-esque, in the background captured me. I didn't know who it was immediatley but soon found out that it was Alex Lattimore.

Of course I knew many people that Alex would know, through Atlanta artists but particularly Jive, like Rhonda Thomas, Drea and Chanda Leigh, so that enabled introductions to be made and conversations flow.

Well thats just a story and not much of a review, but suffice to say the album is excellent from start to finish which was quite rightly picked up on by the UK Soul crowd. Whether it is the qulaity ballad Promise or the uptempo Keep Risin to the top or the jazzy interludes the album exudes quality.

Click picture to purchase and review -

Tracks - 1 Kissing You 2 Bernadette 3 Lullabye 4 Promise 5 Jazzman Blues
6 Sunlight in My Rain 7 Windows 8 Keep Risin' to the Top 9 A Million Ways
10 In Your Eyes

Info:-
A native of a city known for its great arts scene, Chicago, Illinois, Alex Lattimore is no stranger to the world of music. Serving as the male vocalist in the former Giant Step Records performing group Jiva, led by Khari Simmons (former bass player for India.Arie), Alex has been notably compared to the vocal styling of such artists as Luther Vandross and Will Downing. At the early age of 5, he began his journey with piano and trumpet lessons while also engaging in the youth choir ensemble at his home church. This led him to perform with a host of phenomenal groups such as the Chicago Youth Philharmonic Orchestra, Sherwood Conservatory Brass Ensemble, Roosevelt University Jazz Band, and the University of Chicago Chamber Orchestra. Alex’s musical journey continued in Atlanta, Georgia, serving as both a horn player (trumpet and flugel) and lead/background vocalist with a number of Atlanta-based acts. This platform allowed him to showcase his countless talents as a songwriter, arranger, instrumentalist, and vocalist.

With his dynamic abilities, Alex was catapulted into opportunities to open for and perform with internationally renowned artists like Tina Turner, Luther Vandross, Michael McDonald, India.Arie, Earl Klugh, The Rippingtons, Groove Collective, Roy Ayers, Kindred The Family Soul, Loose Ends, and Maysa Leak. Alex’s trumpet and vocals have also graced the Julie Dexter and Khari Simmons Brash Music album release of “Moon Bossa”, the Atlanta based group “Jiva” with albums “Sun and Moon’ and “Day Into Night” as well as being a featured vocalist on the beautifully written duet entitled “The Matrimony” from Rhonda Thomas’ album “Breathe New Life” and title track “Once Twice” from the Bugs in The Attic album release “Back in the Dog House.” Alex has also collaborated with D.J. Kemit (formerly of the Grammy award winning group Arrested Development), releasing a single entitled “Rush Hour” (featuring Takana Miyamoto) which found its place on the P-Vine Records compilation “Sol Com Bossa”. Currently Alex is working with the Ananda Project under the direction of Grammy nominated producer Chris Brann. Excerpts from these projects have been widely reviewed leading to a highly anticipated solo release.

Rob Murat - So Much to Say

2008-10-15T10:04:00.000-07:00

Click image to purchase and sample

Review -

The Soul World needs albums like this, in that they are heavily influenced on Soul Music from back in the day, and then bring it to another level that is appropriate for today. This album does this from a number of different angles, it's diversity, it's freshness, it's construction, and very powerful tracks.

Perhaps most powerful in many ways, the emotive content, the lyrics, the delivery of the acoustic Something Magical.

But there are many tracks that are of a high calibre - the Amy/Doris Day styled/sampled Dilemma, the upbeat catchy Daytime High, the uplifting and very accessible Celebrate.

Until its over is a cool ballad including some interesting violins, indeed some interesting instrumentation crops up here and there throughout the album.

The remaining tracks are for the most part varied and interesting with ballads, guests, up and downbeat, fine musicianship.

Whilst not every track hit the spot the whole package hangs together well, and there are lots of good things going on, so in that respect it is highly recommended.

Tracks: - 1 Ladies & Gentlemen 2 Dilemma 3 Ready to Love 4 Mr. Soulman ft. Amanda Diva 5 Daytime High 6 Celebrate 7 Something Magical 8 Until It's Over
9 So Much to Say 10 So Much More ft. J. Ivy 11 One Day ft. Blitz the Ambassador
12 Born Again 13 BONUS: Ricky??? 14 BONUS: Know... (Live)

Links: -
http://www.robmurat.com/
www.myspace.com/robmurat

Info:-
Soul music is back! It’s almost impossible to deny that there’s an ongoing resurrection of the genre made popular by pioneers such as Marvin Gaye, Al Green, Donny Hathaway, Stevie Wonder and numerous others. After a lack-luster hiatus, R&B and Soul is refreshing again… It’s special again... And it definitely feels good again. Among the pack of souldiers leading this recent upsurge is native New Yorker, Rob Murat. The Queens-born Ivy-League graduate emerges as a leader within the resurgence with intense vocals, creative songwriting, and contagious production that holds music-lovers captive.

Singer, songwriter, producer, and grandson of an international music notable; Rob has been surrounded by music ever since birth. With a childhood immersed in a wide array of musical influences, from hip hop, pop, and R&B to Caribbean, jazz and even classical, Rob developed a vigorous passion for music relatively early in life. His musical upbringing coupled with his experiences as a trumpet soloist, self-taught pianist, impressive composer and vocal arranger has translated into the making of a true artist.

Listening to Rob Murat’s music is like traveling back to the future. The freshness of his sound is reminiscent of the icons that paved the way before him, yet it pushes forward with a unique flavor that hints at something never quite heard before. His passionate performances demand your undivided attention upon delivery. Sold out crowds at New York’s Joe’s Pub, The Village Underground, and L.Q., and Philadelphia’s World Live Café among others have all experienced Rob’s captivating execution firsthand. His sound and style lay a foundation that often flirt with rich tones and live instrumentation, yet at the same time display hip hop sensibilities that peak the interest of the urban listener. His songs deal with a range of matters from the heart and mind with a strong presence of vocal textures that serve as pure audio therapy for the soul. Seldom have love and hate, joy and pain, even tears and laughter been bound so tightly together in such a mesmerizing set.

Rob’s recent accolades include collaborations with Grammy Award winning, G.O.O.D. Music producer, Devo Springsteen (Kanye West, John Legend), and Hip Hop group, Kidz in the Hall; appearances on FOX and BET J TV broadcasts, and the Lennon Award in the R&B category of the prestigious John Lennon Songwriting Contest; music placements on a nationwide Verizon Wireless radio ad, and on ESPN and TV One original series. His brand new recording project, So Much to Say, boasts collaborations with emcee/singer, Amanda Diva (Def Poetry Jam, Sirius Radio, MTV2), J. Ivy (Def Poetry Jam, Kanye West’s College Dropout), and rising Hip Hop artist, Blitz the Ambassador .

Yes… Soul music is back! And if Rob Murat has his way, it is here to stay.

Modern Musings………grooves from the Modern Side with Mark Randle

2008-10-14T14:58:00.000-07:00

Bennson Whatever It Is (Part 1) (Soul Tornado Remix) (EU Raw Fusion 12”)

Originating from Australia, and released on Sweden’s finest imprint Raw Fusion, comes this belting 12” from Bennson. Two mixes over the twelve, with the Soul Tornado Remix taking the honours for me, this should blow hot for some time on the quality UK dance floors. A driving beat on the intro is soon joined by some nice electric piano stabs which continue throughout. The accomplished gutsy vocal comes in and we’re away, with organ and brass weaving in and out around the memorable hook, which should ensure some dance floor longevity. It has certainly done the business when I’ve played it out. I believe a full CD is only a matter of weeks away, and word is it’s a winner. Of course, it’s difficult to know whether this 12” remix will be included, so I would grab one anyway if I were you.

Fanatix Most cuts (UK BBE CD/LP “This Thing Of Ours”)

I awaited release of this LP with bated breath (well, actually, I didn’t………..so impatient was I that I downloaded the killer tracks ahead of the official release!). In a world traditionally dominated by our US counterparts, the names Aaron Ross and Neil Pierce shine like a beacon and fly the flag proudly for the UK. This is as an essential purchase as you will find in 2008 if quality soulful dance is your bag. Probably of most interest on the extreme soulful end of the spectrum is the Shaun Escoffrey sung “Can’t Let Go”, which I believe is good enough to finally see “Days Like This” and “Music In Me” confined back into the racks of the scenes DJ’s!! Requiring a little more penchant for dance music are the equally good “Ray Of Light” featuring Kadija Kamara and “Higher” with one of my favourite house diva’s Lady Alma (Horton) on vocal chores. Loads of good grooves on here…….Fanatix, Richard Earnshaw, Joey Negro…….big up the UK y’all!!

Neo Smile (UK HCS Records 12”)

This tune has been causing a stir since it was first played at Cleethorpes Weekender in 2007 as Gil Scott-Heron (not sure of the merits of the secrecy!!). It turns out to be French keyboard player Neo, featuring the vocals of Rudy Wilburn, and has been available for some time via Traxsource as an MP3 download, a package which includes a Yukihiro Fukutomi remix not included on the vinyl. However, there is an extended original on the 12” which was not available digitally. Confused yet?? Anyway, this has a good up tempo beat, and like the Bennson 12” has a hook you could hang your hat on (and similarly nice work on the piano/organ). It’s a good record and it’s clear to see why it has such appeal on the UK soul scene. I just wish some of the less obvious house cuts that come through week-in and week-out would get some needle/laser time, as many are just as deserving, if not so instant. And finally, I have to say that the secrecy/cover up malarkey on new releases does more to turn me off a sound than it does to attract me to it, which is a shame when the tune is decent like this one!

Phil Perry Most cuts (US Shanachie CD “Ready For Love”)

So to the issues really good news, and the fact that the man who could sing the Yellow Pages and hold your attention, is back with an album of new material, after his recent preference for cover versions. Yes, the former lead voice behind the Montclair’s is back with a new album for Shanachie records. Do you need it? You bet you do! Opening with the bright, bubbly “Desire” you immediately know you’re in the presence of true brilliance. This is followed by the sumptuous ballad “Ready For Love” on which Perry’s ability really shines, showing that he can still hold a note or two. “Shine On Me” is a likely candidate for the dance floor, adding to Phil’s impressive catalogue of dancers from various albums…..a DJ’s delight is Phil, delivering good proper dancers for grown ups!! “The Shelter Of Your Heart” is more great balladry, opening up with one of Perry’s trade mark whistled accompaniments……..trust me, it works. The mid-tempo “Why, Why, Why” featuring Salena is a further treat and could also work in the nations quality soul clubs (oh how I miss my early sets at Without Boundaries). There are a couple of covers on the back half of the set, including a sublime take on Dionne Warwick’s “Walk On By” which is simply superb, but 8 originals out of 10 tracks is pretty damn good. An absolute must have album.

Adrian Brown & Friends Free (US Nikab CD “Real Life Vol. II”)

Now then, on the gospel tip from the US indie’s, comes this 19 tracker from Adrian Brown and Friends. I’ve got to admit that I’ve only tracked this album once, and whilst I found one or two nice moments therein, it was only when I reached track 19 “Free” that I struck gold (or could that be Frankincense or Myrrh?). This track is worth the price of the album alone, a strutting snare driven, guitar plucked gospel R&B styled dancer of the highest order. The lyrics are great, gospel without being too heavy in the message, as the accomplished female lead declares on the hook that “it feels so good to me, and it feels so good to be free”. Line of the year though comes on a bridge in the shape of “…..like a baby being freed out of it’s mother’s womb, free like Jesus lifting him self out of the tomb”…….love it!! Perhaps you need to hear this to appreciate it. This really is so good yet to the best of my knowledge has had little exposure in the UK modern rooms. File it above some of those huge tunes of the minute in my opinion, but what do I know J

Studio Apartment feat. Kenny Bobien Justifiable (US King Street 12”/CD “The Rising Sun”)

King Street records, so called with reference to King Street, NYC, home of the legendary Paradise Garage club, celebrate 15 years of business this year. Of course, most of you know that Kenny Bobien can do no wrong, and this new cut is available on either the new Studio Apartment CD “The Rising Sun”, or on a 12” album sampler of the same name. If you are a collector of the Studio Apartment 12’s, you’ll already have lots of the good cuts here and may go for the vinyl. If the Japanese production team Studio Apartment are new to you, then the CD is a good bet. Anyway, back to this cut “Justifiable”, and all I can say to fans of Kenny is, think about “Hiya Luv” from the “Keep Hope Alive” CD and you won’t be far out. If you’re not familiar with that, just take my word for it that this is ESSENTIAL!!

A few quick spins then and I can’t sign off without mentioning the new Jeff Floyd CD “Keepin’ It Real”, new for William Bell’s Wilbe set-up, with “Lock My Door” likely to see dance floor action. Also the new “Southern Soul & Blues Party” compilation contains some belters on the Southern Soul tip. The Angie Whitney CD (Little Dizzy Records) is worth checking too. On the 12” front, there’s a brace of goodies from our friends at Especial over in Japan, with the Bakura “Mistaken” EP, and the Hajime Yoshizawa “Japan” album sampler, the latter being one for the jazz-heads. There’s a great new 12” from Jazmina based around the classic Frankie Knuckles’ “Tears”, and on the soul tip, a surprise to me in the shape of “Magic” from Robin Thicke, whom I knew could sing a bit but wasn’t expecting something as tasteful as this from somehow! Out of Europe, do check out the Samuel Sartini & Michael Watford “Real Love” on Glitter…..definitely house music for the soul heads. Readers of these pages especially should check out two new 7” releases by Marc Evans on Defected, a taster of his forthcoming album and well worth a purchase as future collector’s items. For those of particularly eclectic taste, you might like to check out 2000 Black’s “A Next Set A Rockers” on JAP Third Ear (what a label title!). A real mixed bag, with broken beats included, but there’s a superb soul dancer on there…..don’t miss it! Rounding things off with some more US released albums, and on the gospel tip, fans of Donald Lawrence might do well to check the new album form The Murrills “Family Prayer”, featuring the monster dancer “Friend Of Mine”. On a more main stream R&B tip, but with a touch of class for us soul peeps, check out Noel Gourdin’s “After My Time” for Epic. I believe he’s currently causing quite a stir across the pond, and it’s easy to see why.

Mark Randle’s Starpoint Radio playlist for August 2008:

Phil Perry – Walk On By (US Shanachie CD)

Hajime Yoshizawa feat. Navasha Daya – Celebration (JAP Village Again CD)

2000 Black – Simple Sacrifice (JAP Third Ear CD)

Luisito Quintero – Tumbao (Louie Vega Main Mix) (US Vega 12”)

Jenna Burke – The Brightness (US Micah Communications Inc. CD)

Noel Gourdin – Make The Most (US Epic CD)

The Murrills – Friend Of Mine (US Verity/Zomba Gospel CD)

Evelyn “Champagne” King – Standing On The Rock Of Love (US Big Day CD)

Terell House – You’re The One (US La Trebor Records CDS)

Amp Fiddler – Superficial (Amp’s Soul Special) (US Camp Amp Studios CD)

Slique – Got It For Me (Terry Hunter Remix) (US T’s Box MP3)

Bigggshady – My Shero (US Bigggshady/Moses Dailey Music Promo CDS)

Bakura feat. Darien – Mistaken (JAP Especial 12”)

The Soul Children – The 3 Of Us (US JEA Right Now CD)

Ragan Whiteside – Options (US Randis Music CD)

Sheree Brown – Adore U (US The House Of Zion CD)

Jimmy Abney – You Bring Me Joy (US Yoruba CD)

Mark Grant feat. Russoul – It’s Over (9^th Ending) (Original Soul Pass Vocal) (US Blackstone MP3)

Leon Ware – Smoovin’ (US Stax CD)

Stacey Mallory feat. Gerideau – Changes (Fanatix Remix) (US Iwanai MP3)

Phil Perry – Shine On Me (US Shanachie CD)

Dave Hollister – Glow (US Zomba Gospel CD)

Anthony David – Lady (US Universal Republic CD)

SIMPLY SOUL MAIL ORDER HOT TEN SALES

(w/c 25 August 2008)

1. Don-E - Natural (UK Dome CD)

2. Phil Perry - Ready For Love (US Shanachie CD)

3. George Duke - Dukey Treats (US Heads Up CD)

4. Heston - Storyteller (US Worldsoul Music CD)

5. Various - Stereo Sushi Vol 13 (UK Hed Kandi CD)

6. Evelyn 'Champagne' King - Open Book (US Big Day CD)

7. Studio Apartment feat. Kenny Bobien - Justifiable (US King Street 12”)

8. Mixed Feelings - Sha La La (US Soul Cal 12”)

9. Tayvon - From My Heart (US LTPD Record Company CD)

10. Bakura - Mistaken EP (JAP Especial 12”)

Web - www.firstexperiencerecords.com

Tel / Fax - 0116 237 5461

Email - markcoddington@btinternet.com

Cheers……………Mark Randle (September 2008)

Soul:ID - Sex Love and Philosophy

2008-10-14T14:11:00.000-07:00

Review - Well I know that this has been around for a while but its official release date in the UK is 3 November 2008, so this counts as one of the best releases of the year in my view.

Afropean Soul as it has been dubbed by the group gets my vote, and this set pretty much from front to back is quality stuff and highly recommended, and thats from somebody who is not a big fan of European 'Soul', but the blends on this are absolutely spot on.

The group consists of producer and nucleus Urban Deep, Tchai, the songstress, V - singer producer and creative force and Dad'D old school crooner and producer.

The initials tracks set the scene including a passable version of the previously hateful True, before the gem Even Though a wonderful slice of smooth mellowness.

There is an enormous mix of styles, influences, cultures and it all hangs together so well. My Philosophy with a laid back funky electro feel with vocal harmony patterns and a greta lead vocal and a whole bunch more weaving in and out....and if this is their philosophy I like it.

On How Comes the pace is lifted, a heavier more menacing vibe and Love of My Life brings it back down to a neo soul level.

Leaving You, if I had to pick a killer track then this would be it, a track I am featuring heavily on Soul Freedom Soul and Radio. Tender is another track that I like, great male lead - kind of Stevie -ish, but when the accompaniments come in and the harmonies it is beautiful.

Cannot recommend this highly enough.

Tracks -Youth, Believe, True,Even Though, Is This Love?,U Ain't [Extract],My Philosophy,How Comes,Love of My Life,Leaving You,Beauty & Sin,Got Me (Interlude),Oh, Oh, Oh! ,Tender,Last Night's Definition of Touch (Interlude),Whatcha Looking For?, Sex, Love & Philosophy (Outro)

Purchase here -
http://astore.amazon.co.uk/lifeandsoulpromo/detail/B000QUUC6G

Links:-
http://www.soul-id.com/
http://www.myspace.com/soulidmusic
Info:-

Soul:ID’s story begins in Africa where three-quarters of the band originate (Burundi, DR Congo and Rwanda respectively). Their journeys - and fate - brought them together in Brussels, Belgium where after years of working as studio musicians and backing vocalists, they decided it was their time to be in the spotlight.

The group consists of producer Urban Deep, the hip-hop drumming naughty boy and the nucleus of Soul:ID, Tchaï, the beautiful soul-loving songstress with a golden voice, V, the stylish, soul-sensitive singer/producer and creative mad scientist and Dad’D, the old-school crooner/producer who brings a peaceful balance to the group. They traveled different paths - from encountering the dark side of immigration, the constant day-to-day struggle to survive and racism - but they all share a common love for all things soul, proving stronger than any of the hardships they endured. These and other stories are ones told on Soul:ID’s stellar U.S. debut release Sex, Love & Philosophy on ABB Records’ ABB Soul.

Soul:ID is more than just a band, or even a brand which has been made evident through their ever increasing fan base and positive praise received from peers and the media alike. Their unique story has given shape to a concept (and sound) - dubbed "Afropean Soul" by Zap Mama herself - which reflects their own virtues and beliefs. Soul:ID begs to tell a different story about the immigrant experience; the story of today’s African and Afro-Europeans overcoming ethnic, social and economical barriers while promoting positive messages and images of what functioning multiculturalism can achieve. Soul:ID is a product of this African/ European renaissance and recognize the importance of celebrating it.

Originally it was Tchaï and Urban Deep who got the ball rolling. Feeling strongly the time had come to stop working on other people’s projects; they hit the studio and started working on their own. Calling on friends Dad’D and V for creative input, the foursome quickly realized what they were creating was equivalent to musical gold. Those long, inexhaustible days and nights in the studio sparked much artistic synergy and hotly debated topics, which were captured on the record and gave name to the album. Spanning over three years, these sessions resulted in a natural merging of fate and friendship and the harmonious landscape painted by the four is a kaleidoscope of their different experiences, personalities and stories told in a tasty stew of urban sounds.

In the time they’ve been together as a group, Soul:ID has worked with many notable international acts such touring with world-rhythm pioneer Zap Mama throughout Europe, headlined the legendary Jazz Café in London, and individually working with artists like Wyclef Jean, Craig David (UK), Robert Palmer and Youssou N’Dour (Senegal).

The album was exclusively written, produced and recorded by Soul:ID, mainly in Brussels, Belgium. Mixing took place in Los Angeles, USA, where the magic touch of Dylan "3D" Dresdow [Black Eyed Peas/Wu Tang Clan/Tweet] was added, while mastering took place on the other coast at Sony Studios, New York City courtesy of James Cruz [Toni Braxton/Three 6 Mafia/Lil Kim].

Soul:ID take their music seriously. They plan on introducing their infectious sound and eccentric style to audiences in North America with the release of their debut album, Sex, Love & Philosophy on ABB Records, with a nationwide tour later this fall.

Big Brooklyn Red - Answer the call

2008-10-14T10:19:00.000-07:00

Review - This is a very strong album with several standout tracks. In particular there are tracks that I am sure the UK will embrace strongly, starting with Taking it too far, a track based on Mellow Mellow Right On, this track will I am sure go big in Uk Modern Soul Rooms.

Not far behind will be So Inspired which for me is a better track . To illustrate that the album contains many tracks and will make a good purchase the opening track Home to you also hits this midpaced dancefloor vibe.

But it is anything but one dimensional X is some kind of epic, building into the best track on the album.

Sunrays featuring Lady Alma, heavy beats, more of a neo vibe if you have to label it, is also a track that I'm feeling. Give you up, a strong Blues sampling Lattimore probably shows Red at his vocally strongest.

Before I met Brookly Red back in 2007 he was more familiar to me because of some house, on this album there is an upbeat 8 minute percussive version of Sexual Healing, and it is very much a different, and fresh, interpretation and the original is barely recogniseable. Having said that the best 'House' orientated track is Truth.

Real musicians, real music, and having seen Brooklyn Red perform several times over the last couple of years I can attest to the fact that he can do this live as well, in fact that is where he is in his element. great stuff indeed.

Links:-
http://www.bigbrooklynred.com/home.html

Info: -In 1997, when this native Brooklynite moved to Miami and received his name from Mandrill’s guitarist Tommy Trujillo, the die was cast. He realized at that point, by leaving his familiar NYC to conquer new lands, he was stepping into his destiny.

His resume prior to that point was impressive. As a member of The CityKids Foundation’s Repertory Company, and later an alumnus, he was able to hone his craft with performances in high schools, prisons, as well as on Broadway and TV with countless celebrities. He performed his first original composition with jazz legends Herbie Hancock and Branford Marsalis and then again with the late, great Grover Washington Jr. at age 17.

In 1994 he started his first band "eli & the bluesound project" and continued sharpening his performance chops while stretching the boundaries of music on the New York scene. After two years, the band had run its course and Big Brooklyn Red went on to sign a production/management deal. While that particular effort never bore fruit, it gave him the opportunity to work with Ivan Hampden and Paulette McWilliams. Ivan was Luther Vandross’ drummer and Paulette was the linchpin of Luther’s inimitable background vocals. It was a master class. “I was a bad motherfucker before that, but Paulette made me razor sharp.”

Only six months after moving to Miami, Big Brooklyn Red became known as the premier soul singer in South Florida. His trademark freestyles made each performance one of a kind. Born from the difficulty of getting musicians to rehearse, his live performances in Miami were often complete improvisations. “That’s where the magic is for me,” Brooklyn says. “To just open your mouth and listen to what God might have me say. The better I sound, the better the song is, the more humble it makes me.”

“Somewhere along the line somebody with a mind for marketing told me to let the audience in on what was happening,“ Brooklyn adds. “I got tired of people asking where they could buy the song I had just made up.” At a 1999 gig at the Marlin Hotel on South Beach, he asked the audience for a phrase that they wanted to hear in a song. He flipped that phrase, and possibly a thousand more since then.

Every Friday night home game during the 2001/02 NBA season found “Big Brooklyn Red and the Miami Funk All Stars” as the house band for the Miami Heat. They performed the National Anthem, a few time-outs, the halftime show, and the post game party. Big Brooklyn Red was at the top…it was time to leave. Destiny was still calling.

At the end of 2002, with the help of his grandmother, Big Brooklyn Red bought a motor-home; packed up all his worldly possessions, his then girlfriend and his dog, Lulu, and set out on a grassroots tour of the U.S. He used this opportunity to promote the release of his first album Foreword while singing the National Anthem for NFL and NBA games, as well as doing open mics and featured performances in cities along the way. Each stop on the road brought him to venues where he belonged, such as the stage of the world famous Black Lily in Philadelphia. He met artists who were doing Soul music with the same passion and work ethic he himself possessed. Heston in Atlanta, Fertile Ground in Baltimore, W. Ellington Felton, Raheem De Vaughn and K’Alyn in DC.

Upon reaching his destination in Los Angeles, Big Brooklyn Red quickly made his mark. At a weekly showcase called Neo-Soul Unplugged, he rose to the top of a group of up-and-comers. His performances there were so legendary that he was often positioned as the opening act for such headliners as Brian McKnight, Blu Cantrell, Chico DeBarge, Robin Thicke, and Deborah Cox. “At Neo-Soul Unplugged my freestyles would make the headliners change their show…they wanted to be that free.”

Big Brooklyn Red’s time in L.A. was short-lived. Nearly a year after arriving in the City of Angels, he decided to return to Miami Beach. He felt the need to reconnect with the live music scene he’d had a hand in creating.

In 2003, three tracks from Foreword were licensed to the UK compilation Organic Soul Vol.3. “Time” was also licensed to be used on the compilations NY Soul and Soul Lounge Vol.1. At the same time, his second Soulful House track with producer Patrick Green was remixed by Dennis Ferrer and released. In two days, all 2,500 copies of the vinyl pressing were sold out and 1,300 reorders were requested. The track also got radio play on KCRW before the record company folded - making “I Got Sunshine“ a bonafide house music hit, as well as an enigma.

Later that year, Big Brooklyn Red did three dates in England to support Organic Soul Vol.3, and then flew directly to NYC in order to film “Showtime At The Apollo.” His performances made the 2004 season of their Best of Amateur Night show.

In 2006, Deep Haven Records released “He Moves,” a Gospel House track Big Brooklyn Red recorded a year earlier as a one-take freestyle. The record label’s debut release was launched with a performance in Minneapolis at the 7th St. Entrance, part of the 1st Avenue club. “I’m in the club where they shot Purple Rain, in this room that’s packed to the rafters and everybody is singing my lyrics while I’m performing the song! I was worried that I was going to mess it up…I freestyled that song so long ago. It took me weeks to learn the lyrics for that show! It was great,” he laughs.

Big Brooklyn Red is a performance driven artist. Since 2000, he has averaged over 50 shows per year. He continues to connect and build with his fellow soul artists by doing gigs in NYC, Atlanta, Chicago, Philly, New Orleans and D.C. Since the release of Foreword and subsequent recordings, he has balanced the presentation of his recorded material with showcasing his improvisational talent, and the freestyles are easily the most anticipated part of his live show. He won’t repeat a phrase he sang before and he never takes the easy way out.

He explains, “People have an expectation when they spit out a bunch of words for me to sing. I try to make it something they didn’t expect. When it’s pretty good I’m thinking really fast. When it’s really on I’m not even thinking and sometimes I fall flat on my face. That’s the risk of being an artist and being committed to your craft.”

Big Brooklyn Red rarely falls on his face.

In 2007 TruSoul Entertainment released Big Brooklyn Red’s mix tape, Unrehearsed Vol.1. It features freestyle one-take recordings over recognizable tracks. It is the application of Brooklyn’s organic process to Hip-Hop.

His next album, Answer The Call, will be available in stores and on-line in the Summer 2008. Meanwhile he continues to record and perform around the world. He may currently be seen on MTV Italia in DJ Jad’s video for “By My Side.”

Previous album

Soul Unsigned Volume 1

2008-10-08T14:03:00.000-07:00

Review - The first full album from Phil Driver's recommened Soul Unsigned outlet, featuring artists that have previously featured on the previous EP's and a bunch more, from all over the Soul World, and all wrapped in an extremely professional package. This outlet is fast becoming a key place for fresh new soul talent.

The opener - Kre8iV 4ce - She is one of the top tracks being the creation of UK leading DJ Fitzroy da Buzzboy and featuring Noel McKoy on lead.

Al Campos - New York Feeling seems to me to be the track gaining most critical attention, and I can see why in that it has a nice groove, it's kinda nice, perhaps too nice for me. Excellent Gentlemen - No Doubt About It falls into a similar category for me, the plusses are that it has proper instrumentation, a 'proper' band but it is far too formulaic.

Moses Mayes - Intrafusion, notches up the funk ratchet and contains much more funk and youthful exuberance in comparison to the last track, it gets down, and fuses all the influences much better. They also did the best track on EP2.

Mothergroove - Don't Waste Your Time is chilled and moody with excellent instumentation, especially the horns. Life and Soul has been a big supporter of Harambe for a long time, so great to see their inclusion with Lazy a track from their 2003 album.

Dreemtime - Sisco (Gentlemen Players remix) features my girl Maya Azucena - Life and Soul of course was responsible for Maya's first ever European Gig - this remix is persistent, driving and very feelgood.

Kaldera - What The Rhythm's 4 is funky and percussive but isn't really doing much for me.

The next two tracks work well together, creating a vibe, a mood that fits - Yohimbe - Love ESC is a melange of different styles and the result is a mesmeric soulful concoction. The Black Style Mood - Closer is my star pick, as the hook keeps coming in on top of some funky riffs and what a groove - great stuff indeed.

Groove's Back Productions - Gently again is a track I like, neo soul groove complete with more poetic neo soul lyrics, and it still possesses a fairly upbeat feel. Maintain - Shed Some Light starts off sounding as if it's going to be OK, but gets a bit messy for me with all the tempo changes.

Jazz funk from Poland and Japan respectively concludes the set in Majahba - Womanizer, and Kan Sano's Inner Sun. The latter being very fine indeed evoking all that 70's CTI and Kudu era.

On the whole a more than worthwhile release, a few tracks don't do it for me but thats always the case, but the quality is high, fresh and varied. It's also good to see bands that can cut it live, rather than false studio perfection. Soul Unsigned is reaching parts that the 'traditional' labels are leaving behind so Power to them.

Tracks:- 1 Kre8iV 4ce - She 2 Al Campos - New York Feeling 3 Excellent Gentlemen - No Doubt About It 4 Moses Mayes - Intrafusion 5 Mothergroove - Don't Waste Your Time 6 Harambe - Lazy 7 Dreemtime - Sisco (Gentlemen Players remix) 8 Kaldera - What The Rhythm's 4 9 Yohimbe - Love ESC 10 The Black Style Mood - Closer 11 Groove's Back Productions - Gently 12 Maintain - Shed Some Light 13 Majahba - Womanizer 14 Kan Sano - Inner Sun

Click pic to purchase and sample -

Links - http://www.soulunsigned.com/
Info - The "Soul Unsigned" radio shows, which are broadcast in the UK, USA, Sweden, Spain and New Zealand, focus on unsigned and independent soul, funk and jazz artists.

The Soul Unsigned Record label releases compilations of some of the best tracks featured on the shows.

This full-length complation CD picks up where EP:001 and EP:002 left off....introducing 9 new acts from around the world; Kre8iV 4ce and Kaldera from the UK, Al Campos, Dreemtime, Yohimbe and Maintain from the USA, Kan Sano from Japan, Majahba from Poland and The Black Style Mood from Switzerland.

The CD also includes *new* tracks from artists previously featured on EP:001 and EP:002 - Moses Mayes, Excellent Gentlemen, Harambe, Mothergroove and Groove's Back Productions.

A great collection of 14 soulful grooves.

Others from the series to buy

Northern Soul's 200 Greatest Floorfillers

2008-10-06T06:58:00.000-07:00

Review -

Buy here - https://astore.amazon.co.uk/lifeandsoulpromo/detail/B001ECE5ZO

Ian Levine's new 5 Disc Boxed set of Northern Soul Floorfillers, containing 200 videos some new, some considerably cleaned up and modernised (visually). Non stop music of Ian's reworking of Northern Soul Classics.

Ian gets criticism from various angles which I am not particularly interested in, but you have to admire the passion, the single mindedness and the acheivement that this actually is. Whatever way you look at it there are hours and hours of painstaking work not only in production but tracking down these people.

So the piece is a fantastic archive of many, maybe most, of the key names in Northern Soul history, and at that level it surely must be regarded as a triumph whichever way you look at it. Yes you can criticise production in some cases, either audio or visual, but he did what he had to do.

Well I have only seen the check disc at this point of about 40 or so of the tracks, pretty much volume one, not all of it appeals, and there are criticisms I could make. But the bottom line is that I'm better for seeing it (particularly as a good number of the artists are no longer with us), and for that reason I hope it is a great succuss.

A quick run through of some of the tracks will identify some of the plusses and indeed some of the issues, but there is no real constant. Sometimes I might like the improved video, sometimes I might not, sometimes its a refreshing remake, sometimes its not....and so on. I've simply tried to give a brief comment about each track but it is clearly eveident that if there is sufficient on just this one disc to satisfy then there is bound to be even more over 5, though anyone will deserve a medal for getting through the full set in one or even two sittings!

The opener is DOBIE GRAY - OUT ON THE FLOOR which for what it is I can understand its place, but it is not an auspicious start frankly. The original video is shaded by pastels colours across the whole screen which gives a strange complexion to Dobie's skin reminding me of some kind of pantomime character. Musically it is clean but visually it is still impaired.

Contrastingly the next few tracks contain outdoor scenes and fair much better - ALFIE DAVISON - LOVE IS A SERIOUS BUSINESS, JIMMY CONWELL - TOO MUCH, P.P. ARNOLD - EVERYTHING'S GONNA BE ALRIGHT and ERMA FRANKLIN - I GET THE SWEETEST FEELING. The gorgeous P.P for me would have made a much better opener, and I really don't care for the vocals on Jimmy Conwell.

THE ARTISTICS - I'M GONNA MISS YOU contains great studio views and already after just 6 tracks in we have already seen a pretty wide view of Northern Soul, male, female, group harmony, older classics and newer ones (on the Northern Soul Timeline).

THE FOUR VANDALS - WRONG SIDE OF TOWN caused contoversy and angst in NS circles but it stands up, indeed sounds fresh in comparison to its peers, particularly if you view it as a piece on its own without making comparisons.

WILLIE HUTCH - LOVE RUNS OUT is a stormer, maybe the best so far. There is a lot going on in the original production in that it has pretty much all of the essential ingredients, but Ian handles his production really well and all the components really work.

Conversely the EDDIE PARKER - LOVE YOU BABY doesn't work, maybe partly because the tune doesn't (for me anyway) anymore - remember at one time this was the number one sound bar none. The video fails much for the same reason as Dobie Gray with the addition that with the effect of trying to make the film look aged it looks like Eddie is on strings!

BOBBY HEBB - YOU WANT TO CHANGE ME shot by the sea is another good one, again visually and aurally.

THE DYNAMICS - YES I LOVE YOU BABY contains some visual effects like Dobie Gray, but no problems here, maybe it's the black background or something but it is absolutely fine.

TOMMY RIDGLEY - MY LOVE GROWS STRONGER is a highlight if only for the fact that he's there, but the piece is really rather nice and I found quite emotional.

RONNIE McNEIR - LUCKY NUMBER, great vocally and bizarrely a track that I would have picked out before as being one of the ones I would have preferred to see but bizzarrel it sounds more dated, given that its one of the later tracks, and one dimensional than some of the older cuts.

JOHNNY MOORE - WALK LIKE A MAN - I'd have to look back on to the previous DVD to see how this fared, but I don't recall this as being standout, but I am loving this mix, for me it actually enhances the track, particularly the backing vocals against an extra gravelly vocal.

THE DELLS sublime RUN FOR COVER excellently puts the live video against the backing track.

DEAN PARRISH - DETERMINATION whilst I don't like the track, nothing to do with this album, is a well constructed piece with cuts from different sessions, the mix is pretty good to. Another track I've never particularly liked although it does have its place in NS history, far to raucous!, but it comes over very strongly is THE VEL-VETS, I GOTTA FIND ME SOMEBODY.

JOE STUBBS - JUST A LITTLE MISUNDERSTANDING and THE APOLLAS - MISTER CREATOR represent barnstorming Northern, particularly like the Apollas video

A great little section contains GENE CHANDLER - I CAN TAKE CARE OF MYSELF, - THE LOVETONES - FIRE ALARM and MELVIN DAVIS - FIND A QUIET PLACE, vastly improved on what we've seen before, especially the latter.

YVONNE VERNEE - JUST LIKE YOU DID ME kinda works, again a greatly produced track and the video is made to work, despite some of the same effects i have criticised elsewhere - see I said contradictions!

THE CARSTAIRS - STICK BY ME BABY nicely worked video using excerpts from the live performance in the UK, and a very good piece of music. It's also here where it gets interesting with this and SAUNDRA EDWARDS - THERE'S NOTHING ELSE TO SAY, versions you wouldn't expect necessarily. The Saundra Edwards vocal certainly adds something, a different perspective to the track, which is nice, not only the obvious difference but the different nuances it allows in production when it doesn't have to necessarily faithfully follow the original.

RONNIE WALKER - YOU GOT TO TRY HARDER works against an old video because of the effortless vocal and once again Ian's production works. SANDRA PHILLIPS - WORLD WITHOUT SUNSHINE also works and whilst I would have put this into the persistent driving typical Northern category there is sufficient going on to waken it up. Similarly I like MARVIN SMITH - HAVE MORE TIME more so on this one because I just like the track, rather than anything being added.

IRMA THOMAS - WHAT ARE YOU TRYING TO DO is just fantastic, bright , breezy and cheerful (and looking good) and just a favourite piece of mine in any event

In the OK category (for me) are KENNY BERNARD's pounding PITY MY FEET, EDDIE HOLMAN straightforward driving N Soul WHATEVER HAPPENED TO OUR MELODY, EVIE SANDS - PICTURE ME GONE, nice video, bad track, MAXINE BROWN - ONE IN A MILLION bad video, nice track!, and SAM WARD - SISTER LEE

Tracks that don't particularly work for me are THE VONETTES - TOUCH MY HEART, CINDY SCOTT sat in her armchair doing I LOVE YOU BABY, FRANCES NERO - KEEP ON LOVING ME, great track but another one falling down on the imagery, JIMMY THOMAS - WHERE THERE'S A WILL THERE'S A WAY, EVELYN THOMAS - DOOMSDAY which I think is just a horrendous video and TONY MIDDLETON, PARIS BLUES

I've grown up through Northern Soul, it is still in me, it is not particularly where my head is at right now. I would, no doubt, have serious differences of opinion with Ian as to where Soul Music now is at, and whether new music should hark back to the old days, or whether it has a place in Soul Music 2008 culturally and philosophically, and whether it hinders progression of the form. That said it can still have a marketplace, more importantly it can still be good and on that level I can still appreciate it, like it even and I would have no hesitation including some of them on my radio shows. I also cannot help but admire the unfailing singlemindedness that drives his passion, to the extent that whether its right or wrong it's gonna be right - I like that!

Listening straight through in one go you start to pick up on similarities in production, and maybe appreciate the original versions as a result, but I fully understand the reasons for this and appreciate that there was no other way. And I wouldn't let that distract me from the intent and the vision of this set. Its also fantastic to have the whole thing in one set, one box set, in one purchase. I wonder though if each disk was sold separately for say a tenner, and released at say 3 monthly intervals, building into a collection, whether that would have been a better marketing strategy - although I have to say the build up on the likes of Youtube and Soul Source has been immense.

As you can see on this romp through 40 tracks, some I like some I don't - you will listen and I would guess that you would feel the same, maybe not the same opinion on specific tracks but overall. Multiply this up by 5 times and this surely becomes an essential purchase.

Links

Buy here - http://astore.amazon.co.uk/lifeandsoulpromo

http://www.wienerworld.com/wworld.php?catnumber=WNRD2452

Info: -
Title: Northern Soul\'s 200 Greatest Floorfillers
Label: Wienerworld Ltd
Cat Number: WNRD2452
Bar Code: 5018755245213
Format: DVD
Price: £29.99
Release Date: 27 October 2008
Duration: 10 hours
Certificate: E

Northern Soul’s 200 Greatest Videos – All Remade, Re-Edited, Re-Built and All Brand New Versions

At a time when a major motion picture is being filmed set against the backdrop of the world of Northern Soul, and when both Amy Winehouse and Duffy have topped the UK pop charts with classic real Northern Soul music, Wienerworld is delighted to present Northern Soul’s 200 Greatest Floorfillers (WNRD2452).

No other Northern Soul DVD in the history of music could ever compare to this. Virtually EVERY classic hit of the era has been filmed and performed, in 95% of the cases by the original artists who made them so beloved of the last forty years.

The majority of these performances have never been seen before and most of them have been digitally re-mastered with excellent DVD quality.

With 200 performances spread across 5 DVDs, this is the ULTIMATE all-time Northern Soul DVD box set package.

Some performances have never been edited before but were filmed ten years ago. Others have been filmed but never edited at all. Some have had faulty sound tracks re-recorded from scratch, whilst others have only ever been seen on YouTube and never been available in DVD quality.

200 Northern Soul songs. All proper performances. All wonderful. All brand new versions. A set to last a lifetime. This is the ‘must-have’ DVD of the century.

Big Time Song Performances include:
Out On The Floor • Do I Love You • Time Will Pass You By • Long After Tonight Is All Over • I Go To Pieces Everytime • I\'ll Do Anything • I\'m On My Way • Blowing My Mind To Pieces • It Really Hurts Me Girl • Hung Up On Your Love • Night Owl • What • I Get The Sweetest Feeling • Everything\'s Gonna Be Alright • You\'re Gonna Make Me Love You • That Beatin\' Rhythm • I\'m Gonna Miss You • Just A Little Misunderstanding
• Baby Reconsider • It\'ll Never Be Over For Me • Sliced Tomatoes • Love On A Mountain Top • Happy • With This Ring • The Drifter • Selfish One • Unsatisfied • Cracking Up Over You
...Plus MANY more!

Region: 0
Colour: Colour
TV System: PAL

Track Listing:
DISC ONE

1 - DOBIE GRAY - OUT ON THE FLOOR
2 - ALFIE DAVSION - LOVE IS A SERIOUS BUSINESS
3 - JIMMY CONWELL - TOO MUCH
4 - P.P. ARNOLD - EVERYTHING\'S GONNA BE ALRIGHT
5 - ERMA FRANKLIN - I GET THE SWEETEST FEELING
6 - THE ARTISTICS - I\'M GONNA MISS YOU
7 - THE FOUR VANDALS - WRONG SIDE OF TOWN
8 - WILLIE HUTCH - LOVE RUNS OUT
9 - EDDIE PARKER - LOVE YOU BABY
10 - BOBBY HEBB - YOU WANT TO CHANGE ME
11 - THE DYNAMICS - YES I LOVE YOU BABY
12 - TOMMY RIDGLEY - MY LOVE GROWS STRONGER
13 - RONNIE McNEIR - LUCKY NUMBER
14 - THE VONETTES - TOUCH MY HEART
15 - CINDY SCOTT - I LOVE YOU BABY
16 - KENNY BERNARD - PITY MY FEET
17 - DEAN PARRISH - DETERMINATION
18 - JOHNNY MOORE - WALK LIKE A MAN
19 - THE VEL-VETS - I GOTTA FIND ME SOMEBODY
20 - THE DELLS - RUN FOR COVER
21 - EDDIE HOLMAN - WHATEVER HAPPENED TO OUR MELODY
22 - FRANCES NERO - KEEP ON LOVING ME
23 - EVIE SANDS - PICTURE ME GONE
24 - MAXINE BROWN - ONE IN A MILLION
25 - JOE STUBBS - JUST A LITTLE MISUNDERSTANDING
26 - THE APOLLAS - MISTER CREATOR
27 - GENE CHANDLER - I CAN TAKE CARE OF MYSELF
28 - THE LOVETONES - FIRE ALARM
29 - MELVIN DAVIS - FIND A QUIET PLACE
30 - JIMMY THOMAS - WHERE THERE\'S A WILL THERE\'S A WAY
31 - SAM WARD - SISTER LEE
32 - EVELYN THOMAS - DOOMSDAY
33 - YVONNE VERNEE - JUST LIKE YOU DID ME
34 - THE CARSTAIRS - STICK BY ME BABY
35 - SAUNDRA EDWARDS - THERE\'S NOTHING ELSE TO SAY
36 - TONY MIDDLETON - PARIS BLUES
37 - RONNIE WALKER - YOU GOT TO TRY HARDER
38 - SANDRA PHILLIPS - WORLD WITHOUT SUNSHINE
39 - MARVIN SMITH - HAVE MORE TIME
40 - IRMA THOMAS - WHAT ARE YOU TRYING TO DO

DISC TWO

1 - VENICIA WILSON - THIS TIME I\'M LOVING YOU
2 - DORIS TROY - I\'LL DO ANYTHING
3 - LEON HAYWOOD - BABY RECONSIDER
4 - SIDNEY BARNES - I HURT ON THE OTHER SIDE
5 - THE MONTCLAIRS - HUNG UP ON YOUR LOVE
6 - JO ARMSTEAD - I GOT THE VIBES
7 - THE VOLCANOS - STORM WARNING
8 - ANGELO STARR - STAND ON MY OWN TWO FEET
9 - JIMMY JAMES - A MAN LIKE ME
10 - EDWIN STARR - I HAVE FAITH IN YOU
11 - THE FOUR VANDALS - ONE PICTURE\'S WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS
12 - PAT LEWIS - IT\'LL NEVER BE OVER FOR ME
13 - THE JUST BROTHERS - SLICED TOMATOES
14 - L.J. JOHNSON - YOUR MAGIC PUT A SPELL ON ME
15 - DEON JACKSON - THAT\'S WHAT YOU DO TO ME
16 - J.J. BARNES - OUR LOVE IS IN THE POCKET
17 - THE THREE DEGREES - CONTACT
18 - SAM DEES - LONELY FOR YOU BABY
19 - EARL VAN DYKE - SIX BY SIX
20 - THE UNITED FOUR - SHE\'S PUTTING YOU ON
21 - THE SHIRELLES - LAST MINUTE MIRACLE
22 - THE VELOURS - I\'M GONNA CHANGE
23 - BETTYE LAVETTE - LET ME DOWN EASY
24 - DEAN COURTNEY - I\'LL ALWAYS NEED YOU
25 - RICHARD TEMPLE - THAT BEATIN\' RHYTHM
26 - LEE ANDREWS & THE HEARTS - NEVERTHELESS
27 - GWEN OWENS - YOU BETTER WATCH OUT
28 - BOBBY SHEEN - DOCTOR LOVE
29 - SISTERS LOVE - I\'M LEARNING TO TRUST MY MAN
30 - TAMMI LAVETTE - KISS MY LOVE GOODBYE
31 - BOBBY PARIS - NIGHT OWL
32 - BOBBY HUTTON - LEND A HAND
33 - BEVERLY ANN - YOU GOT YOUR MIND ON OTHER THINGS
34 - THE DRAMATICS - INKY DINKY WANG DANG DOO
35 - EVELYN THOMAS - MY HEAD\'S IN THE STARS
36 - FRANK WILSON - JANICE DON\'T BE SO BLIND TO LOVE
37 - THE SAPPHIRES - GOTTA HAVE YOUR LOVE
38 - THE SEQUINS - A CASE OF LOVE
39 - HERBERT HUNTER - I WAS SENT TO LOVE YOU
40 - LORRAINE CHANDLER - I CAN\'T HOLD ON

DISC THREE

1 - FRANK WILSON - DO I LOVE YOU (Indeed I Do)
2 - ROBERT KNIGHT - LOVE ON A MOUNTAIN TOP
3 - TAHIRA JUMAH - REACHING FOR THE BEST
4 - BOBBY HEBB - LOVE LOVE LOVE
5 - BUNNY SIGLER - GIRL DON\'T MAKE ME WAIT
6 - EVELYN THOMAS - WEAK SPOT
7 - BARBARA LYNN - YOU\'RE LOSING ME
8 - BARBARA PENNINGTON - TWENTY FOUR HOURS A DAY
9 - WILLIAM BELL - HAPPY
10 - RICHARD POPCORN WYLIE - ROSEMARY WHAT HAPPENED
11 - CHUCK JACKSON - ALL OVER THE WORLD
12 - BOBBY HUTTON - COME SEE WHAT\'S LEFT OF ME
13 - DEAN PARRISH - I\'M ON MY WAY
14 - WINSTON WARD - LONG AFTER TONIGHT IS ALL OVER
15 - PAT LEWIS - NO ONE TO LOVE
16 - TOBI LARK - HAPPINESS IS HERE
17 - ROSE BATTISTE - HIT AND RUN
18 - THE FOUR VANDALS - WITHOUT THE MUSIC
19 - BOB BRADY - MORE MORE MORE OF YOUR LOVE
20 - NOEL McKOY - DETERMINED MAN
21 - SHEILA FERGUSON - HEARTBROKEN MEMORIES
22 - FRANK WILSON - MY SUGAR BABY
23 - MARY LOVE - YOU TURNED MY BITTER INTO SWEET
24 - BILLY HARNER - WHAT ABOUT THE MUSIC
25 - THE VALADIERS - NO COMPETITION
26 - CARL CARLTON - COMPETITION AIN\'T NOTHING
27 - C.P. SPENCER - THIS MAN NEEDS YOU
28 - THE ROYAL JOKERS - LOVE GAME FROM A TO Z
29 - TOMMY HUNT - CRACKING UP OVER YOU
30 - JIMMY JAMES & THE VAGABONDS - LOOKS LIKE LOVE IS HERE TO STAY
31 - THE OLYMPICS - BABY DO THE PHILLY DOG
32 - J.J. BARNES - TALK OF THE GRAPEVINE
33 - THE FLIRTATIONS - STRONGER THAN HER LOVE
34 - JAMES FOUNTAIN - SEVEN DAY LOVER
35 - BARBARA MILLS - QUEEN OF FOOLS
36 - PAT LEWIS - FUNNY HOW WE CHANGED PLACES
37 - FREDDY BUTLER - THAT\'S WHAN I NEED YOU
38 - JIMMY BURNS - I REALLY LOVE YOU
39 - THERESA LINDSAY - I\'LL BET YOU
40 - KEN WILLIAMS - COME BACK

DISC FOUR

1 - THE CARSTAIRS - IT REALLY HURTS ME GIRL
2 - EDDIE PARKER - I\'M GONE
3 - BOB RELF - BLOWING MY MIND TO PIECES
4 - THE ELGINS - DON\'T WAIT AROUND
5 - THE PLATTERS - WITH THIS RING
6 - NAT AUGUSTIN - LOVE IS MY SANCTUARY
7 - THE GEMS - I\'LL BE THERE
8 - THE BLOSSOMS - THAT\'S WHEN THE TEARS START
9 - EDWIN STARR - BACK STREET
10 - PAT LEWIS - CAN\'T SHAKE IT LOOSE
11 - THE TYMES - THE LOVE THAT YOU\'RE LOOKING FOR
12 - RAY POLLARD - THE DRIFTER
13 - P.P. ARNOLD - I GO TO PIECES EVERYTIME
14 - JERRY WILLIAMS - IF YOU ASK ME
15 - JO ARMSTEAD - I FEEL AN URGE COMING ON
16 - BOB BRADY - EVERYBODY\'S GOING TO A LOVE IN
17 - ROBERT BANKS - A MIGHTY GOOD WAY
18 - MAXINE BROWN - LET ME GIVE YOU MY LOVING
19 - KIM WESTON - YOU HIT ME RIGHT WHERE IT HURT ME
20 - J.J. BARNES - PLEASE LET ME IN
21 - NOEL McKOY - MY CLAIM TO FAME
22 - WILLIE KENDRICK - CHANGE YOUR WAYS
23 - JACKIE ROSS - SELFISH ONE
24 - BOBBY PARIS - I WALKED AWAY
25 - JACKIE DAY - BEFORE IT\'S TOO LATE
26 - JIMMY THOMAS - THE BEAUTIFUL NIGHT
27 - LEE ANDREWS & THE HEARTS - I\'VE HAD IT
28 - VANESSA HAYNES - LEAVING THE SCENE OF THE CRIME
29 - JAY AND THE TECHNIQUES - ARE YOU READY FOR THIS
30 - ANGELO STARR - BABY I\'M STILL THE SAME MAN
31 - THE VALADIERS - WHAT\'S WRONG WITH ME BABY
32 - HOLLY HARRISON - BRIGHT LIGHTS OF THE CITY
33 - THE CARSTAIRS - HE WHO PICKS A ROSE
34 - BEVERLY ANN - HE\'S COMING HOME
35 - EVELYN THOMAS - HAVE A LITTLE FAITH IN ME
36 - LORRAINE CHANDLER - I CAN\'T CHANGE
37 - JIMMY JAMES & THE VAGABONDS - OTHER SIDE OF THE STREET
38 - VENICIA WILSON - FURTHER DOWN THE ROAD
39 - THE ARTISTICS - HOPE WE HAVE
40 - THE FOUR LARKS - GROOVING AT THE GO-GO

DISC FIVE

1 - TOBI LEGEND - TIME WILL PASS YOU BY
2 - ALEXANDER PATTON - A LITTLE LOVIN\' SOMETIMES
3 - GARLAND GREEN - AIN\'T THAT GOOD ENOUGH
4 - GWEN OWENS - JUST SAY YOU\'RE WANTED AND NEEDED
5 - BARBARA LEWIS - THE STARS
6 - SANDI SHELDON - YOU\'RE GONNA MAKE ME LOVE YOU
7 - LOU JOHNSON - UNSATISFIED
8 - THE GYPSIES - IT\'S A WOMAN\'S WORLD
9 - THE FOUR VANDALS - BIG STRONG LOVE IN MY HEART
10 - BRENDA HOLLOWAY - RECONSIDER
11 - LOUISE THOMAS - HE\'S SO IRREPLACEABLE
12 - THE TYMES - WHAT WOULD I DO
13 - JACKIE ROSS - KEEP YOUR CHIN UP
14 - THE VOLCANOS - IT\'S AGAINST THE LAWS OF LOVE
15 - TAMMI LAVETTE - TAKE A CHANCE ON LOVE
16 - ROSE BATTISTE - I MISS MY BABY
17 - J.J. BARNES - SWEET SHERRY
18 - CLIFFORD CURRY - I CAN\'T GET HOLD OF MYSELF
19 - VENICIA WILSON - I CAN\'T ERASE THE THOUGHTS OF YOU
20 - DIANE LEWIS - KEEP A HOLD ON ME
21 - GEROD HARRIS - HEADACHES AND HEARTACHES
22 - THE TEMPOS - COUNTDOWN HERE I COME
23 - MARVIN COTTERELL - TRY WALKING IN MY SHOES
24 - JIMMY THOMAS - DANCING ON THE EDGE OF A DREAM
25 - TAHIRA JUMAH - WHAT
26 - MARY LOVE - LAY THIS BURDEN DOWN
27 - LITTLE ANN - WHO ARE YOU TRYING TO FOOL
28 - TOMMY HUNT - LOVING ON THE LOSING SIDE
29 - NOEL McKOY AND EBONY ALLEYNE - SPECIAL DELIVERY
30 - BILLY BUTLER - THE RIGHT TRACK
31 - KENI BURKE of The FIVE STAIRSTEPS - STAY CLOSE TO ME
32 - SHENTON DIXON - I\'LL MOVE A MOUNTAIN
33 - EMANUEL LASKY - LUCKY TO BE LOVED BY YOU
34 - THE ORLONS - SPINNING TOP
35 - VERNA FRANCIS - BECAUSE OF YOU
36 - BOBBY PARIS - PERSONALLY
37 - CARL CARLTON - NOTHING NO SWEETER THAN LOVE
38 - KIM WESTON - HELPLESS
39 - PAT LEWIS - DON\'T YOU WORRY BABY THE BEST IS YET TO COME
40 - DEE DEE SHARP - WHAT KIND OF LADY

Soul Summit Artists

2008-09-29T10:02:00.000-07:00

Just a quick run through of some material I brought back from the International Soul Summit in Atlanta - it's not necessarily new but mostly new to me

Collette - CD Single- You Don't know

Click picture to preview album and purchase

myspace.com/experiencecollette

Also had the pleaseure of seeing Collette showcase at Strictly Social.
The single has an R'n'B feel, as does the album but Collette's voice is sweet and Crystal clear, certainly better than a lot of those in the R'n'B arena. Very nice and a strong album as well.

Trace Ellington - Let Love In - CD single
Trace Ellington - Let Love in - Album

CD single with Let Love in and No Money from the Let Love in , complete with Club Remixes. the club mixe of 'love' is quite stripped down and worth a listen.

The album from last year is well worth a visit/revisit as it contains several memorable tracks like the upbeat Let Love in and No Money. Soul Music is a feelgood stepper.

A very strong indie album. I particularly like th emidtemo Never Givin Up.

Speaking to Trace briefly he tells me that he has now moved to Atlanta

(Info - Trace Ellington, a younger branch of the Ellington (Duke) dynasty, breathes life into the soul of music, resurrecting sounds comparable to Sly and The Family Stone, Curtis Mayfield, and Jimi Hendrix.

As a branch of the Ellington family tree, Trace is blessed with a diverse heritage that serves as a strong foundation for his music. His multi-talents as a singer, songwriter, and producer only enhances his unique compilations. In addition, Trace’s commanding stage presence is supported by his mastery of various instruments including keyboard, drum, guitar and bass.

In California, Trace ran into MC Hammer’s manager and Adrian Gregory (producer of Digital Underground, JJ Fad, World Class Wrecking Crew (with Dr. Dre), which gave Trace another opportunity to break into the music industry. Prior to this, Trace was producing Dangerous Dame (Bay Area Hit “I Call Your Name”). Trace recorded Tupac’s early recordings and also the Sex Packet album of Digital Underground.

Trace started his own record company, Mood Indigo Records (now Mood Indigo Recordings, Inc.), in 1988. He worked with artists such as Too Short, the Hughes Brothers, Ritchie Rich, Dru Down, Rappin Forte. Trace’s company was an entertainment complex offering multiple services, production, housing, and rehearsal space.

At 30, Trace worked with artists from the group, Chicago, rap group, Crucial Conflict, Death Row, Danny Boy, doing production and shooting music videos. While in Chicago, Trace worked with Dennis Rodman, singing in his club. Trace founded Mood Café, which originally started as a recording studio, but his vision blossomed to opening the ‘hot spot’ coffee shop, a Chicago-known showcase for artists and creatives.

Trace later moved to Los Angeles, California, working with Jamie Foxx, artists on the dirty south Universal label, Aaron Carter (NSync), Suga T (E-40’s sister), and Larry Dunn (Earth, Wing & Fire). Trace took time to re-focus and work on himself, taking a spiritual journey and ended up completing his album “Let Love In”. The current single, Let Love In, is playing in the UK on the Soul Brothers label. Trace is currently performing at various venues in the Bay Area, soon to expand to Southern California, Seattle, Chicago and Washington, DC. He is also producing local Bay Area talent."

TN'T Trish & Tom - BET your $

From the album Something Good and likely to be released as a single due to demand, given an upbeat club remix.

9 Anos Despues - A Yoruba Records Compilation

www.yorubarecords.com

Excellent compilation from the cream of Yoruba - 9 years on. Jimmy Abney, Gabrielle Poso, Nomumbah, Quetzal Guerrero, Osunslade, Djinji Brown, Afefe Iku, Santos, Mellow Madness and Nadirah Shakoor.

A fine relaxing chilled worldly album, the standouts being a great piece by Nomumbah - Song for Mi Parade, Jimmy Abney's More of You, Djinji Brown's percussive Marta's House and Afefe Iku's Afrobeat Mirror Dance.

Strangely the track I expected to like most was the one I didn't and that was the freestylig Osunslade.

"Info -Yoruba Records is the record label of artists, Osunlade, Nadirah Shakoor, Erro, Djinji Brown, Santos, Piscean Group, Afefe Iku, Jimmy Abney, Quetzal Guerrero, Boddhi Savtva, Nomumbah, Suntzu Sound, Zoetic, Spyro, KB and Frank-I.

The label is owned and operated in Greece by founder and CEO Osunlade. Known for its deep house music, the label has in recent years contributed to a more diverse world music approach.

With it's signature dance music, Yoruba still holds as one of the most influential independent labels around today."

Abby Dobson - Sleeping Beauty - you are the one you have been waiting on - Sampler

I also covered this here - http://lifeandsoulreviews.blogspot.com/2008/05/abby-dobson-sleeping-beauty-you-are-one.html

Included here are some extra tracks, Deeply, Fly, Castle and Forgive Me.

Deeply is a great track, mellow funky vibe, but it is the powerful vocals that standout. The more I play these the more I like it, great stuff.

Having known Abby for some time now and seen her perform several times I hope that this release when it comes will give her the recognition not only that she deserves but her hard work demands.

Tony Rich Project - Exist - Hidden Beach (sampler)

http://www.hiddenbeach.com/

Just a taster from the very nice and very strong Tony Rich Project. Jordon being my pick

Rasheeda Wallace - Street Soul

http://www.myspace.com/rasheedawallacequeenofstreetsol
http://www.reverbnation.com/thequeenofstreetsoulrasheedawallace

A couple of showcases at the Soul Summit and Rasheeda showed a hard edged raunchy colourful side of Soul. Her vocal style comes across best in my view on the slower bluesier tracks like My Drug and Whatever you want. That said the uptemp numbers both live and on the album allow her positivity and character to come through. Like the vibe on Make me sick , probably my best cut.

"Info - Bio Edgy, Soulful & Classic are three words that can be used to describe the sounds of one of the most gifted and talented singers and songwriters in music history. Just like all the greats before her, ie. Ella, Patti, Chaka, Turner and Blige, Rasheeda Wallace has mastered and honed the ability, to tap into the collective conciousness of the masses and deliver a message through song. Whether that message is of love, joy or pain, or perhaps a combination of all three, her music has become food for the soul, for all those who seek to be uplifted, rejuvenated and healed. As a result of this divine capability, Rasheeda Wallace has been deemed, "The Queen of Street Soul"". Her lyrics, vocals and musical arrangements leaves each listener feeling a sense of self empowerment, in which we are always in need of and can use, time and time again. Developing her vocal abilities since the age of two, "The Queen of Street Soul" draws the majority of her vocal tenacity from her mother, who was also an aspiring singer from the Bronx, NY and who not only had a featured performance at The Cotton Club, but also performed in Vegas as well. Rasheeda remembers how her mother would not only sing her to sleep, but would also sing to her when she woke up in the morning. In addition Rasheeda's mother would always have music industry legends such as The Pointer Sisters, Chaka Khan, Dinah Washington, Oleta Adams, Al Jareau, Al Green and Anita Baker, to name a few, playing throughout the Wallace household at any given moment. Naturally there she was with her microphone singing with them all. In 1995, Rasheeda performed at the world reownked, Apollo Theater and captivated the not always easy to please audience to their feet three times in a row with standing ovations. She also had the privilege to perform on FOX 5's Good Day New York. As a result of these appearances, Rasheeda has been sought after by some of the music industries finest to not only perform with them, but to write and arrange music for them as well. From Chaka Khan to the Roc-a-fella records camp, Kymani Marley and the Pussycat Dolls, to name a few, it is quite evident the level of respect and honor that her peers in the industry have for her. As a supporter of Sanctuary House, a shelter for women who are victims of Domestic Violence, her tireless dedication and service to raising awareness and funding for the Anti-Domestic Violence Campaign, she received a Proclamation from the City of New York, by the Lieutenant Governor-David Patterson himself. With a continuously growing diverse fan base, it is inevitable that she will become a household name. “The Queen of Street Soul” .... Rasheeda Wallace"

Raphael Saadiq - The Way I see it
It was great that Raphael Saadiq turned up at the conference, as I would still put him into the genius category, but this set does absolutely nothing for me. As I have said elsewher before I see no point in replicating what has happened before- influences and history should be used to enhance, and this is where this falls short.

As compared to say Heston as an example, he quite freely uses a Marvin Gaye influence and uses it to enhance and build on the genre so you get advancement in the music. This motown-esque pastiche is no more than that- indeed it is very flat and one dimensional. I'd go so far as to say that it is harmful rather than progressive.

Heston - Storyteller

Only picked up the full album here but have given the previous EP a great deal of prominence and radio play since the previous summit some 15 months or more before.

Aside from being a great guy this is also a great album, and, compare the review above, is exactly where contemporary soul music should be - utilising old skool influences, using it and blending it, to make something fresh and progressive.

A fantastic album that desrves a whole lot, the key tracks like Distant Lover are top notch. Heston is at the forefront of the new soul age and rightly so. He works hard at it and I hope the rewards are forthcoming

Click picture to sample and buy

Info - Your favorite artist. Your favorite song. Your favorite place. The way that makes you fee...

Finally here comes an artist who is capable of bringing those feelings back. STORYTELLER, the debut album by Heston is an exceptionally well composed body of work.. Heston's got one of those instant classic voices, confidently sensuous and informed by the best side of mellow 70's soul. Nostalgic, yet very much his own.

With an equal talent for song writing and producing, his debut album release STORYTELLER, is timeless. Born on the island of Dominica, singer-songwriter Heston grew up with music all around him.. being surrounded by reggae, pop, classical, soul R&B and rock, music was commonplace and it is no surprise that radio along with a collection of his father's old records, would open the key to his soul and love for all types of music.. From Barbara Streisand to Aretha Franklin, The Bee Gees, Marvin Gaye, Elton John, Beres Hammond, Stevie Wonder and Michael Jackson(to name a few) each musician looped a thread into his soul and after listening to his music it is clear that he has been influenced by the best.

With a career in music that began in Atlanta, Ga, launched by a self-titled EP, he has defined his journey as a full-time musician, composer, songwriter and producer.. "Creating timeless music has always been my ultimate goal" says Heston with a poised yet humble demeanor. " I want to leave the world with music that can be played for a lifetime."

A pleasant, easygoing vocal manner coupled with sexy stage presence has consistently yielded a ground swelling of fans and lovers of his music. Heston's first single "Brand new You" of his debut album STORYTELLER is currently in rotation on Music Choice's R&B channel... His song "IF" is the theme song on BET"s ground breaking half-hour reality television show, Real Life Divas. "If" from his self titled EP became popular on SX satellite trough Airtran airways entertainment and such compilation as 'The Soul Lounge Vol. 1, Uk, This is Soul 2005, "IF" was also once listed as on of the most downloaded independent soul singles on ITunes.. "Angel" also from the self-titled EP closed the year 2003 as on the DJ Richard Searling's year end top 50 most played at Smoot FM Manchester UK.

Accompanied by a full band with foundational rhythms that stem back to his island and R&B soul roots, comprised of percussion, horns acoustic and electric guitars, his current independent album release, STORYTELLER, pull out all the stops.. Wit fifteen brilliantly composed tracks, tunes like "Brand New You" "Distant Lover and "Easy" lead the album and is expected to capture audiences with its slinky lover's groover and feel good music..Fifteen grooves. Fifteen Stories. Fifteen repeats.. Fifteen Classics.. Ladies and gentlemen... HESTON

More to come........................................

CD Baby Links - click picture to buy

2008-09-24T15:29:00.000-07:00

La Sonya Gunter - CrazyBeautiful

2008-08-27T10:02:00.000-07:00

Review - Click picture below to preview and purchase

I have had some conversations with people, La Sonya may have been one of them, about concept albums and the effect of iTunes and the like on them. Are concept albums dead because people can select and buy only particular tracks? Or if an album has a concept or a message will peope miss it because of new age purchasing methods?

This album is not a ‘concept’ album as such but it is very deep and personal.It’s strength lies in the fact that it is written about personal experiences, its effect, the despair and the hope, the highs and the lows. So in an underlying way it is conceptual.

This album is La Sonya, she follows no other path other than her own, she doesn’t follow any trend or style – it would be so easy to do that, it is not Urban, or Neo Soul, or whatever, it is La Sonya. For that reason she must command respect for laying this down. I’m sure some people will look for the ‘dancefloor’ track, the ‘neo’ track, the ‘hiphop’ track, but that’s not the way this album works – it is La Sonya laying her Soul bare. Crazy yes Beautiful yes.

Go has a Spanish acoustic feel, fast paced with lilting sax, with strong passionate heartfelt vocals, setting the scene. Sitting here is funkier, pondering on the actions taken in the relationship.

The art of writing whether it is in fiction, in song or even in comedy, is the ability to give the reader or the listener a picture, an image, a feeling, an empathy, Sweet surrender ft Chester Gregory describes perfectly the depths of, the subconscious or unconscious things that one submits to in a relationship.

Musically Everything but you doesn’t do much for me in that it is a drivng rock orientated song but it does add another nuance and continue the storyline. Are you ready ft Hanifah Watilda musically changes genres to an Urban funky sound as we move into the phase where it’s not all about him, its about me to, culminating in Ode to the playa telling it like it is.

Crazybeautiful starts of in a Georgio Moroder stylee but actually evolves into a spoken word.

Tears is interesting in that it is intense and sorrowful, yet the track is light and uplifting. Mm hmm is an upbeat track, possibly the most instant and the one that sticks in your head as you hum along to it.

Doubt of love summarises the confusion of it all. Sometimes contains lots of influences, as does the whole album really, electro, hip hop, string samples, lots going on.

Here in NYC raises the questions, what next, why am I here, do I need to be here, things have changed – La Sonya didn’t we talk about this, just before I left last time I saw you! Ha!

This is how we living The Remix ft John Gordon concludes with a funky remix of a track from the BlakGerl album which is astonishingly 8 years old.

I know the effort and the sacrifices that have been made in getting this album completed and on to the streets. It is well produced and well structured and stands together as a great piece. La Sonya has opened up and created a work to be proud of, which will appeal on that level. What I have described as being a great strength – the concept and individualness - however may sadly be its achilles heal, in that it doesn’t have the ‘big’ track that gets latched on to that helps sell the album. I hope not because it deserves to be heard.

Tracks: -1 - Intro2 - go 3- sitting here 4 - sweet surrender 5 - everything but you 6 - are you ready ft Hanifah Watilda 7 - ode to the playa 8 - crazybeautiful 9 - tears 10- mmm hmm 11 - doubt of love 12 - sometimes 13 - here in NYC 14 - The Remix

Links -
http://www.lasonyagunter.com/index.htm
http://www.myspace.com/lasonyagunter

Cdbaby.com/lasonyagunter
Zoomoozik.com/lasonyagunter

Bio:-

For LaSonya Gunter, art does not merely imitate life, it feeds it. She sings of the questions we have all pondered like "Where is my place in this world?" and "How do I cope with life’s struggles?" Though the questions may be pointed, Gunter’s jazzy alto takes the edge off while beckoning us to explore the answers with her.

Detroit native always knew that music was her destiny. At age three she began displaying her vocal gift by standing and singing on the kitchen table. Later, like many great vocalists, she found inspiration in the church. Growing up during the 80’s her biggest influences were soul and jazz legends like Donny Hathaway, Phyllis Hyman, and Sarah Vaughn. She recalls, "I t was the emotional depth of the vocals in soul and jazz that stirred me. I wanted to be a part of this."

As an only child Gunter’s most fervent ally was her grandfather, Jesse Gunter, who always encouraged her musical talents. A period of exploration led her to study fashion at renowned FIT in New York City. Yet, a string of disappointments including the untimely death of her grandfather, urged Gunter to rethink her choices. It was this catharsis that not only drew her back to music, but also lent itself the creative backbone of Blak Gerl, her debut project.

The journey to Blak Gerl was an uphill one. Gunter believes that "God helps those who help themselves" and understands the courage and sacrifice required to crystallize one’s dream. Blak Gerl was released independently on Gunter’s on Blak Dol Recordings in conjunction with Regular Records. She and executive producer, Jessie Khan, work arduously in promoting and exposing the album. Gunter emphasizes the importance of support from loved ones. "You must surround yourself with people who genuinely take your best interest to heart. No one does this alone."

A musical composite of soul and jazz with a folk sensibility, Blak Gerl, showcases Gunter’s vocals as well as her writing and arranging abilities. Going beyond its title, the album offers much for any listener who has loved, struggled, dreamt, and pondered.

Fatima Thomas.
Press Release

For Immediate Release
"CRAZYBEAUTIFUL"

LaSonya Gunter

LaSonya Gunter has been generating quite a buzz in the independent music scene.

A native of Detroit, Michigan, LaSonya brings the urban female persona to new heights with a soulful blend of rock, pop, classical and hip/hop mixed with jazz influences. La Sonya’s deep, smoky vocals have been described as a cross between Sade, Des’ree and Sarah Vaughn. Ms. Gunter’s music has also been described as “A funky socio- soul experience.

La Sonya Gunter’s new CD “CRAZYBEAUTIFUL”, her sophomore project, is an eclectic, yet funky blend of soul, poetry, hip/hop, rock and operatic self-expression. ”There is something for e veryone on this CD”. “This project is special to me because it is more personal and emotional”, says La Sonya “I have had some turning points in my life and in my career”. “This compelled me to open up write about those things and bring them out into the world”. ” Each song has strong lyrical content and tells a story about love, life and pursuing your dreams”.” I write the way I sing, from my heart and soul”.” I also had the pleasure of working with some phenomenal producers, musicians and other talented artists.”

Performing throughout New York City and nationwide, La Sonya has had the opportunity to work with some talented forces in the industry such as Herbie Hancock, Brian McKnight and Bruce Willis. Her latest venture was singing background for Gloria Gaynor.

For More Information and for song previews, please visit:
www.zoomoozik.com/lasonyagunter

Press inquiries please contact Rory Rogers at pr@zoomoozik.com for more information.
PR@ZOOMOOZIK.COM

Nhojj

2008-08-03T08:30:00.001-07:00

tbc

Mose Stovall - Groove U

2008-08-03T08:29:00.001-07:00

click link to preview or purchase

Links: -
http://soul1st.com/
http://www.soulchoonz.com/Featured_Artists/Mose_Stovall.html

Info:-
The Mose storySoul1st Records is proud to introduce the next big soul music star. One of the South's premiere voices. This is a very energetic singer full of soul. There is fun happening on stage in every song. When you come out to hear Mose Stovall and, your feet will be tapping and fingers will be snapping from the smooth sounds of Mose Stovall. Be it old school or new school this artist and his band Pharcyde does music tunes like no other! Mose has joined the Soul1st music family and has released his first LP entitled, Groove U Baby” which can be purchased at www.soul1st.com; www.cdbaby.com/mosestovall2 and record stores everywhere. Mose’s band has a five member instrumental panel with two lead vocalist. They have an exceptional ability to pull off any song they do. So keep your eyes and ears open. From choppy down home blues to smooth melodic ballads. You'll get what you came for and more. R&B soul artist Mose Stovall is a sure crowd pleaser. His original songs sound great the first time you hear them, because he really delivers. Welcome to the next big thing in soul music: Mose Stovall

Kamal Supreme

2008-08-03T08:27:00.003-07:00

tbc

Beverley Walker

2008-08-03T08:27:00.001-07:00

TBC

Omar Cunningham - Time Served

2008-08-03T08:26:00.001-07:00

click pic to preview and purchase
Links: -
http://soul1st.com/home.html
http://www.soulchoonz.com/Album_Reviews/Omar_Cunningham.html

Info
Omar Cunningham has a style that is uniquely his own. His lyrics are coated with his smooth voice and his stage presence is mesmerizing. Having up close and personal contact with his fans is all a part of Omar Cunningham’s style. He likes to shake his fans hands and get close while performing so they know they are truly appreciated. To see Omar Cunningham perform is a pure delight and one you won’t forget any time soon. In late 2007, Omar signed a new recording contract with upstart label Soul 1st Records headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama. Soul 1st owner, Attorney Reginald McDaniel and Omar Cunningham have known each other for 20 years and a production company of McDaniel’s, was the first to record Omar as a solo artist in the late nineties before Omar decided to enter a career in law enforcement. “He had some great songs then and a lot of interest from record labels, even then”, McDaniel says. “But his new album, “Time Served” will break new ground for Omar and Southern Soul music. “We are fortunate to have him on Soul 1st Records.” Omar’s new CD “Time Served “produced by Soul1st Records is flavored with songs such as the lead single, “My Life” which tells of how he made it through hard times growing up in Gadsden, Alabama to become the artist and man he is today with strong maternal family support. “The Right Woman”, which is one of Omar’s favorites, tells of a man finally finding that right lady. “Same Soap” is definitely a song men and women will relate to if they have experienced creeping on the low and having to go home after such encounters. Omar does an update of his 2003 monster hit “Check to Check” with “Check to Check 2008”which adds a new funkier soul track produced by R&B veteran producer Robert Harris that will have the clubs jumping. “This Old Music” is a fun party track reminiscing about the good old days of soul m music and a sure hit to come. On the personal side, Omar belts out the soulful ballads “Ain’t Nothing Changed” and “Beauty Shop”, both chronicling the ups and downs of relationships from inside and outside of the relationship. “If You Want Me” will take fans back to the days of Marvin Gaye as Omar croons for his woman to tell him what she wants. Omar brings it home with the inspirational “Where Would I Be” in which he gives praise to the man above for bringing him through the trials and tribulations of life. Each track on this CD is a standout on its own merit, including the danceable “That My Jam”; the heart-tugging ballad, “By My Side” and up tempo masterpiece “Could You Be”. Omar teams mostly with Robert Harris to produce most of the tracks, but really made this album one with his personal touch of songs that will keep his legion of Southern Soul fans happy and open the door to R&B fans across the board. “Time Served” is well served for the fans. Omar says he has worked hard to bring a fresh sound to the soul and blues world, a sound that blends soul and gospel with honest situations and playful lyrics. Omar stated in an interview with JSU: “Everybody has, at one point in time, had the blues, so if you make if through the blues you’ve got to be thankful to God that He brought you from one point to another. So, I sing blues but I’ve got to say that my first love is gospel music and everything that I’m able to do comes from God. In my songs, I’m just telling some of the hardships that I’ve been through and some hardships that my friends have been through, and I’m thankful to God that I made it.”Now a member of the Soul 1st Music Entertainment family Omar has blended these two sounds and worlds beautifully. When asked about how he feels joining the “Soul 1st Music family he has this to say: “I feel like I’m free to be the artist I am and grow because I am home with Soul 1st. These guys are some of the people who helped give me my start in this business and now I can help them build a new label that can grow into a major force in the music industry. I strongly believe we will grow into one of the most respected labels anywhere.”Omar has enjoyed the success of three albums, “Hell At The House” which was released on the On Top imprint in 2003 and featured artistic input from Sir Charles Jones amongst others, and his self-entitled CD Omar Cunningham and Worth The Wait released on the EndZone Entertainment record label in 2004 and 2005, respectfully. All of Omar’s CD’s have yielded number 1 and number 2 singles, on the soul and blues chart, and Omar Cunningham has been nominated for several Jackson Music Awards in his short but exciting career including Entertainer of the Year in 2007.Billboard Magazine also listed Omar Cunningham’s first album released on the On Top imprint in 2003 titled Hell At The House, at number 80. Billboard also stated that Omar Cunningham is the first black artist whose first blues CD has made its national chart. They also listed his CD in its Top 20 Blues category.One of Omar Cunningham’s biggest moments in his career to date was being able to perform on the finale night of the Air Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival with Alicia Keys in Montego Bay. Other performers were: India Arie, Nancy Wilson, Kenny Rogers, Michael McDonald, Bobby Womack, and Cassandra Wilson. While Omar was the only one in the show who hasn’t received a Grammy, he was honored to be able to share the stage with these phenomenonal entertainers. Omar has also had the pleasure of performing and touring with Bobby Bland, Willie Clayton, The Manhattans, Shirley Brown, Mel Waiters, Theodis Ealey, Calvin Richardson and others. As he embarks on the New Year with his new release for 2008, Omar is looking to expand his touring to more parts of the United States and abroad while continuing to write for other artists. Keep an eye out for Mr. Omar Cunningham as wonderful things are happening for him and he is surely one of the most promising stars on the rise to greatness. Visit www.soul1st.com.

Steve Wallace

2008-08-03T08:25:00.003-07:00

TBC

http://www.myspace.com/stevewallacemusic

http://www.stevewallacemusic.com/

Sophia Nelson

2008-08-03T08:25:00.001-07:00

TBC

VenueConnection- Madrid Boogie

2008-08-03T08:24:00.003-07:00

http://www.soulchoonz.com/Album_Reviews/Madrid_Boogie.html

Interesting album with lots of World influences, but principally funk.

Madrid Boogie is funky and upbeat. Cool Vanilla is laid back and funky.

Stay at home is the top cut for me, latin kind of groove, great horns and very much dancefloor orientated, certainly the track I have been focussing on both out and on the radio.

Ashanti Munir - Balance

2008-08-03T08:24:00.001-07:00

Click link to preview and purchase

Links
http://www.soulchoonz.com/Album_Reviews/Ashanti_Munir.html

A strong album with several key tracks like I'm staying home tonight which is getting big club plays, I'll be there and Lovers and friends

Info:-
Ashanti Munir was blessed with a one of kind voice. Kay Bourne from the Boston Banner newspaper once wrote, “Ashanti Munir’s pure and powerful voice brought emotional sunshine to the cloudy day.” In 1992 Ashanti won the historical .Amateur Night at the Apollo Theater in NYC. “It was the biggest musical highlight of my life!” she said flashing her million-dollar smile. Ashanti was nominated for a 2006 New England Urban Music Award. She sang background vocals on “Doo Wah Diddy” and “Girl You Know” on Leon Beal, Jr.’s Cd titled “Romantic Groove.” On March 30, 2008 Ashanti sang the national anthem for the Harlem Globetrotters at the TDBanknorth Garden in Boston. (Home of the World Champion Boston Celtics!) She followed that up by singing background vocals for Michael Buble at the Verizon Center in Manchester, NH. She is a passionate performer and has been doing so for over twenty years. She often leaves her audiences in awe wondering how they’ve never heard of this supremely talented lady before. Her musical influences are Whitney Houston, Erykah Badu, Anita Baker, Nancy Wilson, Gladys Knight and Regina Belle.

July 26, 2008 will mark 5 months since Ashanti Munir’s debut CD titled Balance was introduced to the world. The 9-track set was released via the internet (CDBaby.com) on February 26, 2008. Ashanti has gone from being an unknown artist to being known internationally in just 5 months! From the very beginning DJs around England were playing several tracks simultaneously. “Lovers And Friends”, “Follow Your Heart” and the title track “Balance” all received equal airplay. On March 21, 2008 the leadoff single “I’m Staying Home Tonight” was introduced via the Soul Heaven Show on Starpoint Radio in England. As of today it is still going strong on Solar Radio in London as well as stations all around the world! It looks like the “Steppers” in England will keep it going throughout the summer of ’08! The CD “Balance” remained at #4 on the Solar Radio charts from May 19, 2008 until June 24, 2008 and in the Top 10 until June 26, 2008! Ashanti was recently interviewed live on air on June 16, 2008 by Gary Spence at Solar Radio.

The CD “Balance” is receiving rave reviews internationally! Barry Towler of Soulchoonz Promotions in London said “If you love Lalah Hathaway as a vocalist then Ashanti Munir is for you!” Gordon Stone from England’s “Soulwalking” said “I have placed the woman's new set along with the probable album of 2008!” Jorg Michael Schmitt of Sonic Soul in Germany and Sergio Scarpelli of JazzMasters in Brazil also wrote glowing reviews about Balance!

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