Trei - This Is Me - 2005 - Treihouse Publications

Trei delivered what can only be one of the most consistent soul albums of 2005. This major talent has the looks and voice of an angel and deserves much, much greater things in the years to come. Her writing skills are second to none and her vocal delivery is smooth, soulful and so precise she is spot-on. In the good old days Trei would have been snapped up by a major record label and given promotion, but this is not the method of the industry today, it is the madness. We have to be thankful that we hear albums like this at all today and thanks to Trei and the likes of CD Baby for making this happen. Trei holds such things as melody, rhythm, direction and lyric close to her heart. This is major label quality, and not surprising as Trei enlisted the help of studio ace Eric Fleming who is a veteran of projects with Cindy Lauper and Miki Howard to collaborate. The sexy, compulsive and comforting rhythm of "Complete Me" really was an instant hit on these ears and Trei's generous vocals prove their mettle within the first minute. We are not talking vocal teeny R&B lightweights here. Take, for instance, the superb "Invitation", which shows how smooth Trei can deliver a groove.

There is a jazzier side to this young Lady and the midtempo belter "Hooked" displays this in both melody and voice. I think you will be very impressed by this point and should certainly be a fan by the time the brilliant "Love Is Lifting Me" hits your ears. I was reminded of the likes of classy female artists such as Tina Moore and the classy efforts on her particular CD. "Super On The Natural" follows in a very similar manner and is over towered by the impressive, yet too short "Thank You" interlude. I think, though, that one of my close favourites is the irresistible "Do You Know". "Peace" presents itself in a great light, too, with some very funky keyboard work that harkens back to Eddie Kendricks' "Keep On Truckin'" married to a lively, jogging beat that again smacks of quality 90s material. "Rain" will get your head nodding with its harder, crunchy beat and the vocals / backing vocals seriously ooze quality. Trei has confirmed that talents like her CAN produce major label quality on their own without having their creativity and individuality torn out of them. Fitting, then, that the last SUPERB track is the glorious beat ballad "I Can Only Be Me". You can, and that's fine with me. Trei has a great future and although compared to many major artists this is an acorn of a CD, we all know what grows from acorns don't we? Please head off to CD Baby and check out Trei. This comes highly recommended, and is essential for connoisseurs of quality soul / R&B.

Barry Towler
The Vibe Scribe

Louie Vega - Elements Of Life: Extentions - 2005 - Vega Records

This is a brilliant example of quality soulful dance music. Those of you who are familiar with Louie Vega from his work back in the early 90s with Marc Anthony, Masters At Work and Nuyorican Soul will know what to expect with this album. “Extensions” is a remix project from various dance producers, and I have still to hear the original set but general consensus wass that this set is bar far superior to the original. The whole CD is really quite listenable, and it starts off in a rather downtempo groove with the lush and humid “Jungle Fever” and the excellent “Cerca De Mi” which features Raul Midon who provides a very good Frank McComb like performance prior to it flanging into a whopping great dancer. This caught a few discerning dancefloors alight here in the UK that much I know. “Sunshine” is unashamedly Latin and features the excellent Blaze and Raul Midon along with a great rhythm section and strings. Speaking of Blaze, they guest again on the excellent “Love Is On The Way” which is so much like the quality material that we can hear on their essential “Spiritually Speaking” album from 2002. This is very soulful indeed.

The throwback to the 70s disco scene is never far away where Louie is concerned. Just think about the awesome Salsoul-ish “Backfired” from “Our Time Is Coming” and you’ll know what I mean. Here to complement this we have the SUPERB tribute to Candido with a cover of his “Thousand Fingered Man”. Louie proves he knows his onions and is aware of the rich tapestry of black music that laid the path for much of today’s quality dance music. I love this, the irresistible groove, the 70s funky guitar riffs and timely bongos all revel in the rhythm and warm leading keyboard. Some of this CD is unashamedly Afro Cuban in places, but it is within the cosy Brazilian style that “Mozalounge” is set. The superb scat vocal, piano and light hi hat beat whisks me away again to Rio. Again, a warm Latin feel drenches “Mos Vida”, which is a great track. Raul Midon bounces back with a blinding vocal track “A Better Day” and provides us with one of the best highlights on this set. Also check the Caribbean house vibe of "Steel Congo" - also a refreshing vibe. I strongly recommend this album. Well recommended!

Barry Towler
The Vibe Scribe

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J - Conversations - 2005 - Da Soul Recordings

The mighty and endless fountain of creativity simply known as “J” released this CD in the summer of 2005. By now, I had more of an appreciation for the man and what he can do. J, of course, is one of the founding fathers as it were of Da Soul Records. I don’t think that there is any song on here that I don’t actually like. Some, though stick out more than others and these are mostly in the rump shaking department. My first bass-pin trembler was the great “The Look” which is vocally smooth and subtle yet backed with a seriously funky bass line, irresistibly catchy, that is not a million miles away from Zapp and their superb “Ja Ready To Rock” from Zapp IV in 1985. This sounds great pumped up in the car – luckily I live rurally so there’s no-one to disturb bar trees and deer! More fluid is the 808-drum sounding number “Tell Me Why” with its persistent hi hat, sumptuous keys and savoury slap-bass, and this also works nicely for me.

I really love the ballad, “November Rain”, but I fear the storm effects at the start really do not do the song the justice it deserves. I have found this the case on many songs from both independent and major labels. J proves that he has a seriously soulful vein and isn’t afraid to show it on the track which is still a real favourite, “Speak No Evil”. This is a glorious platter of soul and is possibly one of the best records that J and the label has put out, period. The light, tapping beat and the soulful vocals easily match anything that the majors can do and this is very welcome indeed. I hear more excellence in the downtempo funk of “Some Girls” and the solid percussive “Come Back” also gets the bass-pins trembling. Smokey’s “As Long As There Is L-O-V-E Love” is given a tasteful reading and matches anything on Chazz Dixon’s 2005 “Hitsville” CD. “Conversations” is a CD that I would recommend, and this is yet another CD Baby purchase. One wonders what lovers of quality soul would do without outlets like that these days. Please do not overlook.

Barry Towler
The Vibe Scribe

Steve Butler feat. Ron Haynes - Something For The People - 2005 - Pull 'em Up Records

This 2005 album is so funky it hurts!!! If you adore the powerful horn-driven funk of Kool & The Gang, The Dazz Band, Average White Band and the J.B.s, then this CD contains all you could need. Also, we have a peppering of classy vocals, the best of which is the gorgeously seductive Joaquina Mitchell and her superb “Giving My All To You”. Trombone, flugelhorn and sax is deployed with aplomb throughout this album, and the Chicago flavour really comes through nicely. Mind you, there is a healthy, if mere, taste of the Brazilian scene on the opening salvo of “Windy City” which is quite nice to boot. The J.B.s really spring to mind with the awesome stepper, “Something For The People”, complete with funky chant and “Hot Pants Road” styled keyboard riff. Talking of riffs, the chaps link up with excellent vocalist, Mauri Sevier, on the chunky, yet laid back “Change”. The shuffling, heavy beat is easily restrained by a Rhodes keyboard and sax solo. Mauri appears again with the seductive and sexy “Tonight’s The Night” and showcases some superb flugel horns courtesy of Ron Haynes. “Let’s Go To Work” smacks of the The J.B.’s and really is great.

“Giving My All To You” is a top-drawer ballad with some sensational musical accompaniment that is both soulful and haunting. The lazy, almost drunken horns are spine tingling and this lady really does have a sexy voice. I love her tender, breathless and passionate approach and she soars like an eagle over this sexy, teasing clapping beat. The aloof horns and Latin guitar help make this one hell of an essential song. I would recommend this album on the strength of this CD alone, to be honest! This is hotly pursued by my favourite uptempo track, “Shakedown”. This is a real rump shaker and can’t help but make you feel funky. One word of advice – play it LOUD! The irresistible guitar riff and Wah-Wah buoys mood especially. The sax on this track throws me back to the Mizell Brothers work, too, and that ain’t bad either! Steve Butler and Ron Haynes have really come up trumps in their work here, and I don’t think anyone with any rhythm or soul in their bones will not fail to feel the groove on this CD. I would like to see much more from this collaboration and hope that the sexy Joaquina return to thrill us also. Head over to CD Baby and pick this up – you will not regret it.

Barry Towler
The Vibe Scribe

Adam - Determination - 2005 - Music Montaj

Another top-draw album from 2005. There is a song on here - a very, very good song - called "Satisfaction Guaranteed". That really does some up my feelings about Adam McKnight and his splendid music. Vocally we are dealing with a real talent and I hear echoes of Luther Vandross, John Whitehead and even Barrington Scott Henderson. Every track is a winner but for me the show-stopper is the KILLER "Up There With You". What a beautiful record! This song really is the sort of material that makes a very good album GREAT, and all essential elements fall together perfectly to make one gorgeous song. I was hooked by its beautiful, warm introduction, the smooth and velvety vocals and fluid instrumentation. The CD is hopeful, socially conscious and brimming with positivity. This is exactly the sort of material I like to hear. "Lets Come Together", "Determination", "Love Can", "Spirit In Love" and "Together We Can" are top notch examples of real soul music with real instrumentation and song writing.

Not many artists can deal with social commentary well, and no-one in the realm of major label could even hope to scratch this quality of artistry. I think this fact was been borne out with the special acknowledgement of Elton John who later enlisted Adam on his 2005 UK tour following hearing Adam in his home town of Atlanta - and included him for the Live 8 that July. Elton is, I know, a keen fan and connoisseur of black music - strongly endorsing Remy Shand a few years back - and this certainly adds a lot of weight to the argument that Adam is sheer Class. Adam really works on the theme of self empowerment and as a tool for encouragement and verve this CD really rocks. The power of love is the strongest theme on this set and "Love Can" administers this concept perfectly. If you love a Southern flavour with plenty of horns then "You Inspire Me" will wet your whistle nicely. It's happy, bouncy and uplifting, and just what I like. Incidentally, a jazzy flavour is added with the slinky "Many Times". Another strong track. Although we have not seen a follow-up set to date, I'm sure Adam has a great future. CD Baby stock this so do drop in and have a sample listen. Essential real soul.

Barry Towler
The Vibe Scribe

Ellis Hall - The Spirit Lingers On...And On - 2005 Ellis Hall

This album was a breath of fresh air and is beautiful in its sheer simplicity and artistry powerful it's simple, uncomplicated approach. Ellis Hall has served up some delicious offerings over the years – the one that springs to mind most is his impressive version of “What Does It Take” on Kenny G’s “Duotones” album back in 1985, and “Suzanne” by 101 North (reviewed in our 80s section). Most of this CD is simply Ellis’ raw, powerful, soul ripping testifying vocals balanced with his piano. I am tempted to liken this man to the late, great Ray Charles. Believe me, this is no boring album. I love it to pieces, and it also happens to contain one of my tip-top tracks of the Y2K period, and guarantee that it will appeal to lovers of the Quiet Storm. The opening song complete with cheerful, jazzy piano and handclaps allows Ellis to showcase his ample vocals, along with some great backing and tambourine to complete the joyous mix. There is something very 80s about this, and its all in the vocals. I love this to death, and what a way to sweep away the cobwebs of a glum day at work! “Temptation” displays some wickedly balanced themes handled expertly with some very neat lyrics. He’s holding on longer than I ever could.

On “This Will Last Forever” Ellis is spot on, and you can hear the sheer love, energy and creativity being pummelled into the tinkling ivories. This is a seriously strong track, as is the wonderful “Why Should I Care” which deals with how life is, and how we look at it today. The opening salvo of “Nothing Can Bother Me Today” is VERY Take 6; this vocal beat box effect, piano and soaring, happy, uncomplicated vocals are amazing. This is just great and I think that if this song does not raise your spirits up then there must be something wrong with you! If you’re still not quite there, the finger-popping gaiety of “Sunny Days” will definitely boost your energy levels, as will “Victorious”. I am reminded of Brian McKnight with the gentle “What Will I Do” which is excellent. Now, I have come to what I consider the SLAYER song – “So Deep In Love”. I was simply blown out of the water. It grabs me right in the gut and chokes me up, and not many tracks nowadays do this. This song is so soulful it hurts, and the whole feel is QUALITY late 80s / early 90s soul resplendent with synth, guitar and – programmed – drums. It would not be out of place on, say, a Gerald McCauley produced album (see the 90s pages for my review of his set.) Please take a visit to CD Baby and seriously listen. If you love your ballads and love jams as much as I, then you just need this CD in your collection TODAY!

Barry Towler
The Vibe Scribe

Felton Pilate - Nothing But Love Spoken Here - 2005 - Felstar

Following Confunkshun, Felton Pilate worked with a group called Special Generation back in the early 90s. The new album is exactly in that vein, so I suppose some would say that compared to some R&B sets today it could be classed as dated. The album does have an early 90s feel about it, so if that’s a plus for you as it is me, then great. The crowning glory of this set for me is the title song. I was smitten with this as soon as I heard it, and it definitely rates as one of THE tracks of 2004. This is a classic, traditional soul ballad that is so lacking at the moment, even in quality circles. Whether this be the product of a sadly bygone age, I cannot really say. It just appeals to me big time. "Nothing But Love Spoken Here" is sexy, sensuous and is as velvety as it comes. Some will not warm to the very brief Ernie Isley-ish guitar moment some two-and-a-half minutes in, but I am rather akin to that anyway so no complaints here. This song renders the album as an essential purchase. CD Baby has a great sample on their site so you check this out for yourself. There are 3 remixes of this song at the tail end of the CD. I wouldn’t bother if I were you!

I recommend the excellent late 80s sounding ballad "In Time" which should get your juices flowing and "Taking It From The Top" has an early 90s groove and the Soul To Soul feel works well. I can imagine Al Johnson recording this, and I guess any of the more uptempo numbers from his "My Heart Is An Open Book" set would fare well as a comparison. Be careful when you reach "Only For You". It promises to be sugary enough to be diabetic keel over, but miss this at your peril. It is, in fact ,a smouldering ballad duet with Janice-Marie Johnson from 70s group, A Taste Of Honey. This rather bashful, unassuming number has some devastating soulful chord changes and the overall arrangement is nothing but class. "Watch You" is more chunkier and firmer. It has a solid foundation to work on, and Felton’s voice shows no sign of having deteriorated over the years. I like the soaring, icy synth and the funky guitar work. The rest of the CD is pleasant, and certainly listenable, but it is weaker than the songs I have chosen here, but overall, I would rather have a set like this any day than a lot of what is on the market today. Worth consideration if only for the track.

Barry Towler
The Vibe Scribe

Lew Kirton - Forever - 2005 - Tweedside Records

I recently covered Lew's 1983 “Talk To Me” album on our 80s reviews pages, and it’s a pleasure to have the man dish up some new flavours, uptempo, midtempo and between the sheets in the new Millennium. Lovers of his aforementioned “Talk To Me” album will feel comfortable with this. The style is reminiscent of the best tracks from the New Birth CD that I reviewed here on Soulchoonz very recently. “Forever” is a consistent effort and shows us that this man has not lost any of his magic. I rate most of this album and can therefore highly recommend it. OK, it is definitely an independent sounding effort, but this adds to its charm and has a touch of the late 80s to it, which is something that definitely does not disagree with my sensibilities. The opening track wins from the opening bars – a real classy modern soul cut that garnered some interest and airplay. Lew’s song is a conciliatory one towards a gossiping lover who’s darkening his name about town. Very sporting of you, old chap and a great song to boot. “Missing You” drops the tempo with a note of melancholy and a heap of remorse but thankfully a velvet smooth delivery and quality tune to carry it.
Following the nice Holland Dozier number, “Forever” we have an excellent 80s styled stepper in “Stay The Night” which carries none of the melancholy of the previous song. The mood is sexy, anticipating and excited. Can’t say I blame him either!

When I heard “No One Else For Me” I was reminded, in part, of the melody within The Bar-Kays recently reviewed song “Let’s Get Busy”, and this helped me like an already tasty arrangement. I particularly like his gentle vocal style and the soft female harmonies in support. I have, though, some real favourites on here – the first of which has to be the KILLER ballad “Choose You”, resplendent with real instrumentation and excellent delivery from Lew Kirton and his backing singer …Karen Bernod! This is a heavenly pairing, and musically we are dealing more major label a la Miles Jaye with his days with Island Records. Yes, I love this and played it to death at the time wherever I went. The CD is essential for this song alone, but the final two songs also command as much attention. Musically they elevate themselves from the previous – yet great – songs. I love the keys in “Look My Way”; the atmosphere along with Lew’s undiminished vocals really does hark back to the 80s. The final cut really is a monster track; a quality stepper with classy synths and chugging clapping beats that would not be out of place on a compilation from 1984 or 1985. Needless to say this is a song that I have whopped up and enjoyed. As it is winter and the new release front quieter as dead as my love life, there is no excuse for ordering a copy from CD Baby!

Barry Towler
The Vibe Scribe

The Longshot Sessions - The Soul Of RnB - 2005 - Da Man Records

I am really enthusiastic about this CD. It is a rich blend of steppers and ballads, steeped in a solid soul / funk tradition. The Longshot Sessions is a collaboration fronted by Dick Fowler, and Keith Stewart - a member of Heaven & Earth, as was contributor Dean Williams. The song that initially aroused my interest was “Step Wit Chu” – this song is FANTASTIC. A dirty, slinky and FUNKY stepper to savour – the beat is meaty, chunky and tough! Vocally this really does the business – imagine the lazy growl of Barry White and the deep plummeting depths of Isaac Hayes over a Soul II Soul styled beat. SUPERB!!! The vocalist, Mistah Llou, is one I would like to hear more of. KC Lee is a more smooth vocalist and his stepper “I Got Yo’ Back” almost falls into a 90s Jeff Redd category, so that is a definite bonus! Heaven & Earth, provide the vocals over the saxy “Can I”; aping some great dancefloor numbers from the past. The first ballad really does cut the mustard too and vocalist Dean Williams allows a little Southern grit to sneak in, and I get the impression that Dean could and really would like to really let rip big time!

There is an 80s good-time vibe with the Mikki Bleu-ish “Keep On Steppin’” featuring Marzette Griffith. I also feel a touch of Kashiff a la “Music From My Mind”. Dick Fowler offers a SUPERB ballad, “Whatever You Want”: the chilled muted trumpet and deep groove / synth is really a sound that I adore. Dick Fowler adds his own more than able vocal skills to the mix with “Spin Me” complete with funky, scratchy guitar and eerie synth. Soul man Marshall Titus crops up on the essential ballad, “Mo’ Better Love”, which could almost have been crafted with the late, great Luther Vandross in mind. Marshall sure knows how to handle the downtempo material, his agile vocals hint at a powerful energy behind the song. The real show stopper, as far as ballads go, is “Pu Tang”. The vocals from Attitude, Soul & Pride and are just amazing. I think of Barrington Scott Henderson on this gem. The deep, rich bass lines are sexy and the synth and keyboards really add some extra mystery to this most luscious of groves. The quivery, pleading, soaring vocals are laid down on top of this and raise this to essential status. This is a great CD, and available from CD Baby.

Barry Towler
The Vibe Scribe

New Birth - Lifetime - 2005 - Stonehurst

New Birth, conceived by Harvey Fuqua of Motown fame in 1963 released their first LP on RCA in 1970, and in 2004 Leslie and Melvin Wilson stepped forward and delivered a set of QUALITY soul recordings that are not only very traditional but very Y2K too. There is nothing old or retro about this set, but neither is it bumbling about in hip-hop territory. I was hooked within seconds of track one and was in no doubt that this was a must-have set. We start out with a KILLER stepper, "Fun Is In The Chase", which reminds me greatly of the tunes that Brotherly Love effortlessly turn out. This is a gorgeous track with an irresistible and catchy melody. You will have this tune in your head and will not be able to let it go. Vocally, the Wilson brothers are SUPERB. Soulful, smooth, gritty and they hit the right notes as far as I am concerned. This is classic stuff, have no fear. The second track, "Workin’ On You" was very much (still is!) a favourite spin of mine. Again, the ability to hit me right in the "oh yes!" centre of the brain and heart is spot on again. This 80s styled ballad will definitely work on you and if by this time you are not convinced then I suggest you buy a pack of cotton wool buds!

Anyway, "Dream Merchant" is a nice floater, again reminiscent of Brotherly Love, but to be honest I much prefer the SUPERB "Ten Toes Up" which has hit the repeat play button more than once, I can tell you. This is not a cover of the Dazz Band song from 1995 but a seriously sexy and soulful new composition, which will more than serve its purpose in the old boudoir. The Frankie Beverly and Maze "Back In Stride" feel seriously pervades the opening moments of the excellent funker "Comin From All Ends". This is another happy vibe and sits very nicely, thank you very much, with the funky "Mo’ Deep" which has elements of Kleeer within the keyboards, and even a bit of Zapp within the beats. The style changes down a gear for the brilliant "You Know You Want Me" with its slap bass and 80s styled synth flourishes. Vocally the brothers are a fantastic mix of J. Blackfoot and H-Town, which means plenty of grit, guts and passion. "Hey Girl" is a blinding ballad which really is a more-ish number and you will know why within the first 30 seconds or so. If these songs are not impressive enough, please check out the wonderfully smooth jogger, "To The Light" which has a beautiful ethereal, magical quality to the vocals and the warm musical backdrop. This is a superb, positive and essential album and one that is a mandatory purchase.

Barry Towler
The Vibe Scribe

Redd Soul - Natural Progression - 2005 - Star Quality

CD Baby has so much to offer us soul connoisseurs, and with many quality artists finding their way without the 'help' of major labels, CD Baby is the place to look for quality soul and jazz. Back in 2005 they delivered us another goodie in the form of blue-eyed soulster, Redd Soul aka Mark Mirkovitch, aided and abetted by producer Malcolm Harvest. For me there are three absolute monsters on here that crave your attention. The album has a soulful vibe and some street edge, and what Di-Lee would call a “Soulchoonz vibe”! Some tracks, too, appeal to a younger R&B set. These tracks are not my cup of Earl Grey but they are infinitely better and more listenable that the fiddle-faddle that the industry laughingly calls R&B nowadays. What is undeniable is that this gentleman has SOUL. Fans of Tim Dillinger and Jeff Hendrick will soon warm to Redd Soul. There is a freshness and innovative perspective that these artists come from. It’s soul music, pure and simple, with no hang-ups or baggage. These guys love their music and being highly talented they can create music that they and lovers of quality soul can be proud of. I love the titled intro that is very tribal, sexy and infectious and the following song has grown on me on subsequent plays.

I had originally considered this too ‘urban’ but Redd carries this off with such gusto and turns this into a healthy slice of neo-soul with a contemporary hard edge. The flute and funky keys also give this some extra muscle. Recommended. I was very impressed with the sheer joy and openness of "Summer Days"; a song that would fit nicely on Jeff Hendrick’s latest set. Excellent bob your head feel-good soul music. A real killer for me is the fresh and bubbly "One Way" with its acoustic keyboard and smooth backing vocals. This is a track that I wish I had during the summer. I would have had this pumping out on my travels I can assure you! My number one cream cut is the 80s sounding "Cheata" which again is one that was designed for Summer. I love this song to pieces and cannot get enough of it. "Jeopardise" follows on nicely and although rather modern I could imagine this being on a the Temptations “Legacy” album – think "Fifty Fifty Love" and you’re not that far off the mark. "More" is a very promising ballad to boot. Vocally I hear shades of gospel singer John Butler in the mix, and that is no bad thing in my book. Redd Soul is an interesting and bright new artist with a very promising future. I for one will play this album for some time and hope that we have a follow-up album in future. Please check CD Baby and do not overlook. Excellent stuff!

Barry Towler
The Vibe Scribe

The Persuaders - Made To Be Loved - 2005 - It's Soul Time

2006 saw the release of this mighty fine album from this veteran group and album does not take prisoners and hits hard from word go!!! The harmonies really hark back to the sweet soul era, and is definitely what would be deemed "old skool", but let’s not take that on face value. The guys have not sat on their laurels and they have moved with the times but have still retained that certain magic which, I think, has a foundation in strong writing. With Richard Poindexter what else could we expect. I think this man is a lyrical master and he should be exulted more than he already is. The title song kicks in with some superb harmony, a solid groove and some vocals that would please fans of Gene Rice. This is also true for the excellent midtempo cut "Never Stop Loving You" as well, and I promise that this will not disappoint. This is group soul at its best. The song that really has me hitting repeat is the superb "Don’t Think I Won’t Leave"; a traditional, real adult R&B cut dressed in today’s clothing. I found "Mama" an intriguing song. The groove is as perky as they come, and the song is very clever as it deals with bereavement in a positive way that is precautionary more than maudlin. Good, then that the guys tackle this hard, upsetting subject with such panache.

I move onto the beautiful flute-laden "This Time Next Year which for me has a great Philly flavour to it. The meandering piano could almost be Leon Huff and the style and lyric falls into the Bunny Sigler bag of song craft. If that’s not a recommendation I don’t know what is! Following this is an interesting beat ballad that has a foundation in today’s hip hop flavour, complete with post-modern crackling vinyl effects. The tapping beat soon leads into a more well-rounded type of soul groove with scratchy guitar, piano and expansive synth. Lovely! "I Don’t Think So" falls into a mid 80s dance groove – not my favourite track but the quirky keyboards, bongos and raspy, soul tearing vocals are enough to shave the bottom off my lounge door! I rather like the cover of "A House Is Not A Home" too – I can hear the Dells doing this; their style is remarkably similar on this song. "Hypnotized" is another Dells moment – the harmonies are spine-tingling and the brass is perfectly matched. Seventies sensibilities prove yet again that they are timeless. Original group member Will B. Holland joins the group for the excellent socially conscious belter "All The People". Harold Melvin would have appreciated this sort of groove and would definitely approve of this effort. Let’s hope people are listening to these socially conscious lyrics. I think that you will need little or no persuading in purchasing this CD. Not to be missed.

Barry Towler
The Vibe Scribe

Kevin Nash - A Love Beyond Space And Time - 2005 - Elect Communications

Kevin Nash returned in 2006 with a most impressive album of special love songs that were inspired by his parents. His parents are the cornerstone of this album, and the album is much more than a personal or sentimental project. His loving parents can teach all of us a lesson, a great lesson. Kevin has studied well and is dedicated to teaching those willing to listen of what is the basis of all that is important in this world: love, tenderness and togetherness. Those of you who know Kevin from his first two outings in the early 90s will not need any further convincing. All I would like to add is that I feel this particular album has raised the bar in terms of song writing and in its level of production. It is tender, low-key in places and promises the listener of some latent eroticism. The melodies, the considered arrangements and Kevin’s sensuous vocals ally themselves together in a natural fashion. The result, for this man’s money, is fantastic. There is no cliche here, just passion.

The first musical cut is very jazzy; very basic and no-nonsense smoky room material, and vocals dreamily tailored to boot. This works particularly well, and so does the beautiful and serene ballad "You And Me". "Like Oooh" speaks of the flush of first love; a most amazing feeling indeed, and perfectly encapsulated in song here. The set contains two remakes. "Without You" from 1994’s "Love Ya Nine Tymes", the other "Its True" from his 1992 EP. Both are spectacular revisions, changes and regenerated enough to be new songs in their own right. In fact, "Without You" is probably better than its previous incarnation. Its more atmospheric, sexy and detailed. I can’t get enough of this version, BUT I still like the original. "It’s True" which bears little resemblance to his 1992 effort with a more sexy feeling. Another song I love (let’s face it, I like the whole darn set!) is the jaunty "Hope You Don’t Mind" – the additional finger-clicks, the key flourishes and jazzy undertone really is the business! I always like listening to the sounds of nature, especially when married with sexy soul music. Here on "Sexy Song" we have tropical birds and a running stream along with Kevin’s monologue, and a bit of sax to boot courtesy of Panther. The bubbly "Let’s Make Love Tonight" with its Spanish guitar and knocking, clicking rhythm has the wisp of a Leon Ware production, so no bad thing! "Wooh Oooh" has a title that had given me every fear of being a cookie-cutter effort for the kids, but in no way is this the case. This is intelligent, soulful and befitting with the rest of the album. "Everyday Love" ups the stakes again and possibly has the most contemporary feel, along with a spoken part – I won’t call it rap. It’s more adult than that. I cannot recommend this album enough This CD is one for the romantics out there and for those who like sheer unadulterated quality soulful music. Available from CD Baby.

Barry Towler
The Vibe Scribe

Smokey Robinson - My World - 2005 - Motown

Do NOT, whatever you do, flick past this thinking it's a simple Greatest Hits compilation. Oh, no. There were, hidden away, 2 new songs, both of which are essential. The compilation itself is full of classy and essential material, no questions there, but the concept of this set is very pedestrian, uninspiring and is to me a poor excuse of a release when ALL these songs are available on a million other compilations, and the mindless releases for Motown 50 leave little to inspire us. Anyway - the new songs! Both are sophisticated efforts, and one track in particular has to be the best thing that Smokey has laid down for absolutely years. Although eligible for a bus pass, Smokey looks great and sounds as good as he ever did. These songs kick start the CD and are the equivalent of rocket fuel. The cut "My World" suffers, though from being far too short and leaves me wanting more.

The words that come forth from this Man's pen are as wonderful today as they were back in the 60s and 70s, and what Smokey and William "Mickey" Stevenson have created is a CLASSIC Smokey Robinson track that is so HIM, so Smokey, but also very Y2K as well. The interesting, phased background vocals by Timothy Bloom also add a lot of spice to this song. Boy, this is one essential song - even more essential as this can be purchased very cheaply online from the likes of Amazon.

The track that raises the hair on the back of my neck is "Fallin'". I fell in love with this song and have not stopped playing it since. The voice of an angel, a haunting backing vocal from a group called Remedy and a very basic, stripped down Spartan arrangement all add up to sheer class. This is made for a hot summer's day. In fact, the day this arrived was one of the hottest of that particular year (and those were few and far between!), and it made my skin go cold to hear it!!! Just amazing. Smokey shines so bright on this song. I get so frustrated as I sit here listening to such classy material from the man, and all we have are 2 tracks. Why, oh why can we not have a whole brand new album of material like this? This is what the great man does best, and today we need it more than ever. So how about it? His 2006 CD for New Door contained one new song that you really need to have - "I Love Your Face". Just Smokey and a piano. Devastating. Has me is tears every time I hear it. Please do not overlook this release either.

Barry Towler
The Vibe Scribe

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The Unifics - Return - 2005 - Modo

The legendary Unifics - Al Johnson, Tom Fauntleroy, Charlie Lockhart and Garrett Hall bounced back into business in 2005 and this CD, and as a listening experience I really loved this album. The main thing for me with this album is that there is, whether they know it or not, a fine line to tread for classic artists creating new albums in this day and age. Some create a CD that solely appeals to their peer group. The other scenario is to jettison your old listeners and sell out to the current trend. Classic much loved artists who have been away for a while actually walk this very precarious tightrope. The Unifics cross the tightrope effortlessly and appeal both to fans of their "Court Of Love" era, and fans of quality modern independent soul. I hear something truly special in this album, and it is something I feel defines a quality piece of soul / R&B today. It is a sense of tradition. The album nods its head to the past with some tasty group harmonies that are FANTASTIC - so rare today – and although a definite group effort Al Johnson has his fingerprints all over the it. Fans of his ESSENTIAL 1998 CD, "My Heart Is An Open Book", will instantly love this album.

There are a few covers here - most don't really work but the reworking of the Curtis Mayfield gem "Gypsy Woman" is a classy version and thoroughly enjoyable. This 13 tracker will delight from track one: the happy, positive and upbeat "I Want You To Have It" will soon wheedle its way into the grey matter but the track though that floored me completely was "Any One Can Tell You" … a brilliant, brilliant modern ballad that smacks of the golden age of sweet harmonised soul music. I hear the Stylistics and any number of classic groups within this groove. The hook and melody is almost straight from the Thom Bell school of composing, and the Unifics are a shining example of how amazing perfectly matched vocals are, and Al Johnson gives one hell of a performance and sends me straight back to his best efforts to date. From a classic soundscape we venture into a quality Y2K setting: "My One And Only" is another clear showstopper and the gorgeous instrumentation. Charlie Lockhart shares vocals with Al Johnson and their vocal interplay is simply jaw dropping. The swaying, late 80s beauty "A Lifetime And A Half" is another clear winner and overtakes any young R&B whippersnapper easily. "A Long Way To Forever" is another lovely, warm ballad and the sheer soulfulness of Charlie Lockhart’s vocals is beyond reproach. "This Night We Love" carries on the same theme and should highlight to the connoisseur and astute listeners that this CD is a gem that needs to be bought, enjoyed and cherished for today. An essential purchase for soul music lovers.

Barry Towler
The Vibe Scribe

CJ Anthony - I Let Heaven Go - 2005 - CrDaJo

You will, of course, remember this great man from his superb 1988 LP, "Luv’s Invitation" for the whimsically titled KMA Records. If you loved that album then needless to say you will love this one. Chuckii Booker's input is nowhere in earshot of this album but the style and persona of the album is definitely in the same mould and naturally progresses from the 1988 album. This could, in fact, have been released in 1989 / 1990. There seems to be a personal theme running through this album and appears to be the catharsis of a soul who has lost a love and realised too late that he doesn’t miss the water ‘til the well runs dry. I am a sucker for ballads – especially melancholic ones – and the opening song hits the spot for me. I love the melody and eerie synth, although it does appear to be a little cramped or over produced on this particular song, although its slight oppressive saturation in sound adds credence to the pain of the lyric. Excellent. "I Want To Be" is a perfect vehicle for C.J.’s ultra-soulful style, and the synth again takes centre stage. The keyboard is really allowed to speak here, and again the man does the business.

Impressed as I was with these songs, track three really got me going. "Somebody Out There" is MAGICAL. This is the sort of groove ballad that I would have lapped up in the late 1980s, and still do today. It is warm, soulful and reassuring. Probably this set will be too ‘programmed’ for those who like the more organic stuff, and this isn’t a problem. I don’t actually have a problem with programming. As long as those who push buttons and what-have-you know what a melody or groove is. You Taught Me To Fly" is another VERY strong soul cut which will appeal to fans of his older work. If you have any sort of emotion and are a parent then you will not fail to be touched by "Bre Bre’s Song" which is a terribly poignant and beautiful song immaculately conceived and delivered. Such beautiful lyrics from the viewpoint of a loving and doting father. It also deals with the social issue of family breakdown, and is a song as much for children as it is for their warring parents. The splendid array of songs continues apace with the breezy "All I Know" which is a solid performance in the joys of discovering a new love. It isn’t ‘til track 8 that the tempo increases, but the Chuckii Booker influence is very strong and this renders "Runnin’ Back To You" as a must-repeat song on the CD player. The excellent jogger "What Will It Take" complete with Reindeer bells also deserves attention as it is another strong performance. The final two songs, "Let Me Show You" and "Pack Your Bags" also sit well with this reviewer and his appreciation of the late 80s. Please check CD Baby and give this a listen.

Barry Towler
The Vibe Scribe

Zascant - For Women Only - 2005 - Zascant Music

This is a very worthwhile 2005 release, still available on CD Baby. Zascant are a duo comprised of Alonzo "Scooter" Powell Jr who has spent years drumming with James Ingram and Norman Brown amongst others, and Anthony Johnson III who supplies the smooth, soulful vocals. The group grew up and was inspired by the Isley Brothers, Heat Wave, the Stylistics, Marvin Gaye, Barry White, Sly Stone, James Brown, Herbie Hancock, George Duke, Peabo Bryson, Earth Wind & Fire and Stevie Wonder so you get the idea of where these guys are coming from! This is an 8 track CD and for these ears four tracks really and seriously demand your attention. I recommend the first 4 songs so without further ado...track one! The opening tapper has an 80s feel and reminds me slightly of some of the material on the latest Lenny Williams CD. Anthony's vocals really are great and this song will warm the old cockles of your heart as it does mine, I'm sure. When I originally checked this CD out on CD Baby I was absolutely convinced about these two gentlemen when I had got about 20 seconds into the KILLER gospel ballad, "Place Of Peace", which is so strong and so essential that it is beyond belief. This is a straight out classic song in the mould of, say, the Winans and I still play it regularly today. Having been blown away with this I was not ready for yet another KILLER in the form of "Please Stay" which is a brilliantly addictive midtempo effort that would not sound too far out of place amongst 80s classics such as The Chi-Lites "Runnin' Around". This is real soul music, fellow connoisseurs so have no fear. The final cut for me is the aptly titled "Sunshine" which has a loose beat, expansive synth and summery keyboards. The only distraction for me is the crackly record effect. I never liked crackles when I bought vinyl years ago, and I am not a fan of hearing it on CDs today - BUT this is still a massive track and highly enjoyable to boot. Tracks 5 to 8 really did not hit me in the same "wow" area but cannot at all be considered bad at all. "Sexy Sexy" is an outright 80s stepper, and isn't bad at all but I feel the final tracks lack the power and conviction of the first 4 songs. Again, with the sheer essential nature of tracks 1 to 4 this is not a problem, simply an aside. Well worth a purchase if you are a connoisseur of Y2K soul flavours!

Barry Towler
The Vibe Scribe

Various Artists - Soul Of Brasil - 2005 - You Entertainment

Various Artists - Soul Togetherness 2004 (UK Expansion, 2004)

If the Café Soul All-Stars album is up your street them go straight to Amazon via the link below and order this. This album was as interesting as it was essential. This album contains more superb productions by The Starship Orchestra’s Jacques Burvick, and Duke Jones and features some superb performances from Marva King, Denise Stewart, Diana Booker, Luciana Mello and our old friend, Ali Ollie Woodson. This was actually a Brazilian release only, but is now widely but available. This set is definitely recorded for the Brazilian audience and contains many classy soul outings performed in Portuguese. This is, if you have not heard anything like this before, very interesting. The productions are solid, the music sturdier still, and the vocalists are magnificent. Interesting also is the Latin versions of popular US numbers. Brian McKnight’s “What’s It Gonna Be” is given a very tasty makeover by Edmon as is his BRILLIANT remake in Portuguese of Maxwell’s 1998 song “Everwanting To Want You To Want”. Eric Benét’s gorgeous 1996 “Femininity” is given an interesting and quite respectful remake in English by Edmon as well, and showcases in English what a great talent he is. What I particularly like is the chorus is sung in Portuguese! So we have our cake and eat it too! That’s fine by me. This makes you hear an old song in 2 different lights, and I rather like this.

Not withstanding this, though, the real showstoppers are the original (and not so original!) songs by familiar names. If anyone could do a great job of sounding like Jean Carne it is the beautiful Marva King on “Once Again I’ll Call”. I imagine these are what were Brazilian songs – this one “Osverbos Do Amor” – and remade in English. The intricacy of the romantic Portuguese tongue sometimes falters when translated, but not so on this album. Marva is such a great talent that she handles the twists and turns of the lyrics with ease, precision and grace. She sounds great, and Leo Gandelman’s sax could be mistaken for Marion Meadows’. Marva’s second tune is even better than this superb track. “They Say” is a typical essential Jacques Burvick outing and would not surprise me if this had been intended for a star-studded Norman Connors album. This certainly made me happy. Denise Stewart thrilled us on the Café Soul All-Stars album and also makes an appearance here with the deliciously Latin “Kiss Me”. Throughout this album there is a spoken word but I am not sure who does this. Where it does pop up it is very well placed and does nothing but add to the track and not detract from it. A new name to me was Diana Booker. Her song is called “Future Lovers” and is another translation from Portuguese. The lyrics in English are really beautiful, poetic and have had some intelligent thought behind it. You so-called US R&B artists (yes, YOU!) please leave the ego and the bling bling at the door, sit down, shut up and listen. You may just learn something. Diana’s able vocals and the seriously soulful music become one with the passion of the lyric and elevate this high above anything that is being churned out in America at the moment.

“Simple Measures” by Luciana Mello – another new name to me – is simply riveting, as it is delicate. Her effortless and smooth vocals along with the gentle melody may initially impress you as being pleasant but meandering, but by 90 seconds the song really grabs you and gets into the old grey matter. Sounding like a gentler and talented Desree, Luciana has the talent to definitely appear again with Jacques, Norman and Duke. Or at least I hope so. My final pick is the SUPERB remake by Ali Ollie Woodson of Phil Perry’s 2001 song, “Spirit Of Love”. I love this song equally as I do the original, and what I get from this is song is the reaffirmation of what a sensational vocalist Ollie is. This song is superb and I cannot recommend it enough. Any one of these songs on this album alone would be enough to prompt an immediate purchase by me and I think you won’t do wrong by adding this album to your collection.

Barry Towler
The Vibe Scribe

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The Café Soul All-Stars - Love Pages - 2005 - You Entertainment

This CD is essential, there’s no two ways about it. There are more quality artists involved in this project than I can shake a stick at, and all bring with them their own unique talents to collaborate in this superb album. Helping oversee this exciting project is no less than Norman Connors and Jacques Burvick, so the connoisseurs among you will have some basic idea of what to expect from this feast of talent. There is a flavour to match every taste here, and no stone has been left unturned in finding the best artists to support the talented vocalists. We have strong soul compositions, one R&B track for the kids and some very strong jazz-fusion flavours too. The first artist that really got my juices flowing was Glenn Jones with what has to be his best stepper for years and years. His inclusion is a wonderful soulful dancer called “What You Gonna Do” which is elevated from simply being very good to excellent by the use of some smashing Rhodes keyboard that jolt us straight back to Impromp2’s “You’re Gonna Love It” and beyond. Bobby Lyle and Chuck Cymone add their skills to this, and Duke Jones and Mr. C himself produce the cut. Superb!

Talking of Impromp2 leads me onto the brilliant and astronomical vocalist, Peabo Bryson. Johnny Britt wrote this classic, classy Peabo Bryson ballad and it is so typical of this man’s output. This could be straight out of his “All My Love” album, it’s really that good. The man included it on his 2007 CD, "Missing You" as well. Vesta Williams has been quiet since her essential 1998 album for I.e Records, and the Nick Martinelli penned “One More Bridge To Cross” carries on from this album very nicely. We all know and love this next Lady, and that is Maysa. Her vocal skills are out of this world, and I have always believed that her skills are best employed on the right side of the pond. Bob Baldwin and Porter Carroll, Jr have written “I’m Changing” and is as good as any of the classier songs on her last, must-have, set for Expansion. There is an excellent sax break through this and thanks go to Kim Waters for that, too. In fact, Maysa returns later for an even more essential cut called “Stay In My Heart” that has Omar Hakim on drums. Please do not overlook that track. I have already mentioned Bobby Lyle. He acts as musical support throughout this set, but shines in his own right on the essential Brazilian instrumental, “Brazilian Heat”. It does start out a bit computerised, and almost housey which was a bit of a shock, but it soon warms up and progresses into a joyful, warm belter of a summertime jazz track. At this point, I think you will already have an inkling on how essential this album is.

Well, all I have to say is had this album been a load of old rubbish up to this point the following track alone would certainly make it worth a purchase alone. I loved the late, great and sadly missed Jon Lucien, but please do not think there is any bias towards this track because of this. When I bought this CD, I think I played “To Be With You” at least SIX TIMES a day. This has to be one of the best and most essential records that this great, great talent had ever set to record. The swirling strings, and the Latin instrumentation by Pucho & The Latin Soul Brothers is sheer, sheer class and is pure heaven. This timeless classic is a far superior version to the Fatback band original on Perception. Just buy this CD on the strength of this alone if nothing else. From this, then to a soulful number featuring an Old Norman Connors acolyte, Denise Stewart who joins Duke Jones. This is a quality outing for all concerned and one can tell that dear old Norman has his tight reins on the direction of this song. An odd inclusion albeit a welcome one, is “Pages” by George Benson. This phenomenal song was first released on Gerald McCauley’s own set back in the fall of 1999 and was one of the landmark songs on it. Not sure how it managed to get on here but who cares?! So, what else can I say about this album? Well, for me it is essential, a must have and definitely classy. Worthy of a purchase by anyone reading this review for any one of the tracks hitherto mentioned, let alone the KILLER “To Be With You”.

Barry Towler
The Vibe Scribe

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