Released: May 1973
Genre: Funk
Label: Columbia
Producer: Joseph Wissert
unfortunately, the only picture with Jessica Cleaves in the album cover... had to switch it up.
Friday, October 28, 2011
Album Factoids
Head to the Sky
Released: May 1973
Genre: Funk
Label: Columbia
Producer: Joseph Wissert
unfortunately, the only picture with Jessica Cleaves in the album cover... had to switch it up.
Released: May 1973
Genre: Funk
Label: Columbia
Producer: Joseph Wissert
unfortunately, the only picture with Jessica Cleaves in the album cover... had to switch it up.
Week 56: Earth, Wind & Fire
Now, of course I am very familiar with Earth, Wind & Fire (and I would hope that those of you reading this are as well), but I am completely unfamiliar with their early stuff when they had female vocalist (first Sherry Scott, who was replaced by Jessica Cleaves on this album). I feel like that's going to add a whole new element to the sound. The only album I've listened to fully is That's The Way of the World, so I'm excited to add another to my repertoire.
So, to add on to Bilal...
He did a workshop at Berklee today, which was incredible, and I had the chance to go on stage and sing with him. Super crazy. He's incredible, it was such an honor.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Final Grade: A-
Bilal is the fucking man. I haven't heard any recent artist with harmonies like his in a minute - that's a problem - but man, oh man am I glad he's doin them. He has such unique vocal lines and melodies - it's so nice to hear that vocal creativity hasn't been lost. Really interesting grooves all around, with some serious gems thrown in ("White Turns to Gray" has been on repeat like no other). Definitely a good album to have when you're just relaxing around the house, doin your business and whatnot. Wish I didn't have to miss out on his show tomorrow, but at least I got to see him last week!
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Songs of The Day
Sorrow Tears and Blood: This is a pretty cool tune, and definitely different from the ones preceding it. I dig the feel of the intro, it makes me feel like I'm inside the tornado in the Wizard of Oz. There's a great "world music" sound to this - lots of different mixtures of latin, tribal - I dig it. Oh hey, Common! Diggin the spoken word he's putting down. I can get down with the mellow groove that the song eventually gets into, but I dig the initial groove better - I'm glad it turns back around. Solid vocals, but no surprise there. Everything about this tune is much more relaxed than the majority on the rest of the album. Like I said, pretty cool tune.
Sweet Sour You: Initially, I wasn't sure how I felt about this song being the closer. It's an interesting track, the instrumentation and harmonies are very unique, but I was wondering how strong this track was as the ending point. The B section groove is so on point though, it made me change my mind. The groove is super steady, which is always good. Love the "oo oo's" at the end. I dig it.
Sweet Sour You: Initially, I wasn't sure how I felt about this song being the closer. It's an interesting track, the instrumentation and harmonies are very unique, but I was wondering how strong this track was as the ending point. The B section groove is so on point though, it made me change my mind. The groove is super steady, which is always good. Love the "oo oo's" at the end. I dig it.
Monday, October 24, 2011
Songs of The Day
Hands Of Time: Steady, steady groove on this one. It really is all about being in the pocket, and these cats definitely got it right. The opening vocal harmonies on this are so phat, I really do not understand why that sequence isn't sung again. Regardless, the vocal harmonies are great throughout, and it's nice to hear more complex, interesting harmonies in modern music. Groove breakdown/deconstruction section is cool - interesting to hear it so bare. Dig it.
Hollywood: This is my first somewhat questionable tune on the album, but I think that it's just going to take a few listens to get used to. I definitely dig the synth, out-there beat that's going on (a nice switch up from previous tunes), and the harmonies are kind of insane, but I think their insanity is part of the problem. The harmonies are so full and out there, but the beat is already so strange that together, it's tiny bit too strange. I actually dig it a lot, it's just all a little difficult to jump into - you gotta ease.
White Turns To Gray: Damn, is this one sexy song. My first note just says "ugh." Yes, precisely that. That is much thanks to the bass holding it the fuck down. The first vocal line gives me a stank face. Scratch that, this whole song is giving me stank face. I almost don't want to give anything away. Listen to it.
Hollywood: This is my first somewhat questionable tune on the album, but I think that it's just going to take a few listens to get used to. I definitely dig the synth, out-there beat that's going on (a nice switch up from previous tunes), and the harmonies are kind of insane, but I think their insanity is part of the problem. The harmonies are so full and out there, but the beat is already so strange that together, it's tiny bit too strange. I actually dig it a lot, it's just all a little difficult to jump into - you gotta ease.
White Turns To Gray: Damn, is this one sexy song. My first note just says "ugh." Yes, precisely that. That is much thanks to the bass holding it the fuck down. The first vocal line gives me a stank face. Scratch that, this whole song is giving me stank face. I almost don't want to give anything away. Listen to it.
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Songs of The Day
Make Me Over: This is one solid groove. Dig pretty much everything about it. And Bilal's vocals are just so smooth on top of everything - so suave. Love the minimal number of harmonies, but I love how crazy they are - so great. The short chords on the piano are super sweet. There's just a great weight to all the instrumentation, and I dig it hard. Great build to the end. Guitar riff/drum solo ending is awesome. Yup.
Get Out Of My Hair: The intro to this is interesting...pretty funny actually. I won't ruin it for you. This is another heavy groove, and I definitely dig it. Love that the guitar riff is the melody in the chorus - when they meet, it gives a great fullness to the melody. I love the layers in the vocals, they're very cool and add a cool dimension to the groove. The hook lyric "just get out my fro" - so funky. This is pretty stanky.
Lord Don't Let It: I think the A section to this tune is so beautiful. I love all of the instrumentation, and the vocal harmonies are on point. I do like the B section, but not with the A section. I like it by itself, but then when it returns to the A section, I remember that I liked that section so much more. On the fence about this one. The freak out section at the end of this is the shit though.
All For Love: This is a pretty solid soul groove. I dig the super up feel it's got - it's a nice swing. That's probably much thanks to the heaviness of the piano. Great vocals, but no surprise there. Just an overall solid tune that doesn't need much explanation.
Get Out Of My Hair: The intro to this is interesting...pretty funny actually. I won't ruin it for you. This is another heavy groove, and I definitely dig it. Love that the guitar riff is the melody in the chorus - when they meet, it gives a great fullness to the melody. I love the layers in the vocals, they're very cool and add a cool dimension to the groove. The hook lyric "just get out my fro" - so funky. This is pretty stanky.
Lord Don't Let It: I think the A section to this tune is so beautiful. I love all of the instrumentation, and the vocal harmonies are on point. I do like the B section, but not with the A section. I like it by itself, but then when it returns to the A section, I remember that I liked that section so much more. On the fence about this one. The freak out section at the end of this is the shit though.
All For Love: This is a pretty solid soul groove. I dig the super up feel it's got - it's a nice swing. That's probably much thanks to the heaviness of the piano. Great vocals, but no surprise there. Just an overall solid tune that doesn't need much explanation.
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Songs of The Day
Something To Hold On To: This is a pretty solid tune to open up with. I'm sure there's better tracks on the album, but if this is the standard Bilal is trying to uphold, I'm down with it. The groove is cool, nice n solid. Dig the short horn parts, they add a nice little punch of something. I don't really like the strings, but I'm sure I would if they were real. You can hear that they're fake, and it bugs me. Bilal is definitely holding down the vocals. Love the harmonies going on in the hook and throughout the tune. Nice fade to the end. Like I said, solid track to start off on.
You're All I Need (Feels Like Heaven): I really dig this beat. It's very interesting and definitely not something that I feel like I've heard before, which is always refreshing this day in age. Love the echo and delays going on with the beat and in Bilal's voice. He's got a great distance in his voice that really works with the groove. I didn't initially like the piano that comes in, but I really dig it now. It gives the beat a nice happy feel to it with its short and simple chords. Love, love all of the vocal layering going on in the hook - very cool - they add a great fullness to it. Dig the piano foolery at the end. Very, very cool tune.
Gotsta Be Cool: The fact that the word "gotsta" is in the title made me love this tune before I even listened to it. I really dig the chopped blues rock feel this groove has got goin on. Very heavy, definitely holds it down. Love how minimal the guitar part is - the groove is all about the back beat. Ethereal feel in the bridge is pretty cool, and I dig the way the A section weaves into the end of it so seamlessly. Very cool groove, but it definitely trails on too long at the end - a solid 45-60 seconds could be cut off the end.
You're All I Need (Feels Like Heaven): I really dig this beat. It's very interesting and definitely not something that I feel like I've heard before, which is always refreshing this day in age. Love the echo and delays going on with the beat and in Bilal's voice. He's got a great distance in his voice that really works with the groove. I didn't initially like the piano that comes in, but I really dig it now. It gives the beat a nice happy feel to it with its short and simple chords. Love, love all of the vocal layering going on in the hook - very cool - they add a great fullness to it. Dig the piano foolery at the end. Very, very cool tune.
Gotsta Be Cool: The fact that the word "gotsta" is in the title made me love this tune before I even listened to it. I really dig the chopped blues rock feel this groove has got goin on. Very heavy, definitely holds it down. Love how minimal the guitar part is - the groove is all about the back beat. Ethereal feel in the bridge is pretty cool, and I dig the way the A section weaves into the end of it so seamlessly. Very cool groove, but it definitely trails on too long at the end - a solid 45-60 seconds could be cut off the end.
Album Factoids
Love for Sale
Released: 2006 bootleg (was leaked online after being deemed "unmarketable" by Interscope)
Genre: Soul
Label: Interscope/Universal
Producers: Bilal, Nottz
mmmmm :)
Released: 2006 bootleg (was leaked online after being deemed "unmarketable" by Interscope)
Genre: Soul
Label: Interscope/Universal
Producers: Bilal, Nottz
mmmmm :)
Week 55: Bilal
Man, am I excited to get into this weeks album. Tuesday night, I went to go see my brother play, along with José James and Robert Glasper (talk about a killin bill) and during Glasper's set, he had special guest Bilal come and sing two tunes. Fucking killed it. I've heard Bilal's stuff here and there, but I've never taken a listen to one of his albums. After seeing him, and since I will be seeing him again at Berklee next week, I figure there is no better time than now. My brother recommended that I review this album, which was never released by the studio. Underground shit, I'm down with that.
Monday, October 17, 2011
Final Grade: A
I don't think I can find anything fundamentally wrong with this album. All of the grooves are on point, and there is a mixture of a lot of different feels. I wish that Roy had featured himself on the vibes a little more, but regardless, the grooves sound great and I'm feeling good the whole time. Such a great blend of different feels, I love that there was some synth incorporated to give a little futuristic vibe to a couple tracks. "Memory" may be my favorite, but it's hard to stay. Great album, highly recommend.
Songs of The Day
Vibrations: This is probably the most low key tune on the whole album, and I can get down with that. It's nice to finally hear the vibes in the forefront, given that that is Roy's main game. I like that the vibes and horns are paralleling one another, it gives the melody a nice weight. Diggin the female that comes in just for some "good vibration" vocal lines - sounds like she's just doin her own thing and havin a good time with it. Sweet vibes solo. Nothing crazy about this tune, but it's still a solid mellow groove, so I dig it.
Moving, Grooving: It would have been funny if this were a mellow tune, but obviously with this title it wasn't going to be. I'm all about this super up tempo groove. Yes, Roy, I would like to move and groove. Definitely some funky stuff goin on here. Horns are super tight on this, which is always a plus for groovin tunes. Percussion is great. Dig the male/female vocal lines. It sounds like everyone's jammin and having a good time, and I am right there with them. I think it fades out too fast, but that's about it for the criticism. To quote the tune, "I just feel like groovin!"
Baby You Give Me a Feeling: Mmmm, I can get down with this. Love the simplicity and space in this groove - so cool. I like that hits are slightly behind the beat - that's always a funky touch. Dig that the synth and bass are paralleled - it really holds the groove down. Are those strings or just a synth? I can't really tell. Whatever, they are a great minimal aspect that help a lot with the beat. There is no reason this groove should be as short as it is - I WANT MORE! Groovin way to end the album.
Moving, Grooving: It would have been funny if this were a mellow tune, but obviously with this title it wasn't going to be. I'm all about this super up tempo groove. Yes, Roy, I would like to move and groove. Definitely some funky stuff goin on here. Horns are super tight on this, which is always a plus for groovin tunes. Percussion is great. Dig the male/female vocal lines. It sounds like everyone's jammin and having a good time, and I am right there with them. I think it fades out too fast, but that's about it for the criticism. To quote the tune, "I just feel like groovin!"
Baby You Give Me a Feeling: Mmmm, I can get down with this. Love the simplicity and space in this groove - so cool. I like that hits are slightly behind the beat - that's always a funky touch. Dig that the synth and bass are paralleled - it really holds the groove down. Are those strings or just a synth? I can't really tell. Whatever, they are a great minimal aspect that help a lot with the beat. There is no reason this groove should be as short as it is - I WANT MORE! Groovin way to end the album.
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Songs of The Day
Come Out and Play: This has got a pretty funky groove to it. Seriously diggin the bass on this one. I love the group vocals, it adds a nice weight to the vocals to balance the heavy groove. Love the hook "are your thoughts inside your mind wanting to be free" - what a great line. Listen to the music, people. They sound like they're just jammin, havin a good time. Groovin.
Better: I think this is an all around sweet tune. I dig the effects on the vocals and what they do to the enunciation of the hook - I find it very catchy and think it adds a lot to the groove. Roy knows how to balance his funk with mellow grooves, and I like it. The string part is very cool, and it's a nice smooth transition back into the "better days are coming" hook. Horns are great. There's a kind of corny love feel to this that I actually really dig. Solid tune.
Searching: This is such a solid tune. I love the horn especially - it's so short and sweet, but adds so much to the groove. Love the hits on the ands of the beats. The B section is great too - soft, mellow groove that sits really heavy, and right back into the light A groove. Awesome horn solo. I'm glad to finally here Roy on the vibes, but I wish he'd showed off a little longer. Great tune.
One Sweet Love to Remember: Starting off with a bass line like this, I knew this song could be nothing but funky. I really dig the rhythmic placement of the vocal melody - it's off and not where you would expect it to fall, and it just sounds so funky. Female vocalist breakin down on this one. The vocalists especially sound like they're having fun on this one. Solid groove.
Better: I think this is an all around sweet tune. I dig the effects on the vocals and what they do to the enunciation of the hook - I find it very catchy and think it adds a lot to the groove. Roy knows how to balance his funk with mellow grooves, and I like it. The string part is very cool, and it's a nice smooth transition back into the "better days are coming" hook. Horns are great. There's a kind of corny love feel to this that I actually really dig. Solid tune.
Searching: This is such a solid tune. I love the horn especially - it's so short and sweet, but adds so much to the groove. Love the hits on the ands of the beats. The B section is great too - soft, mellow groove that sits really heavy, and right back into the light A groove. Awesome horn solo. I'm glad to finally here Roy on the vibes, but I wish he'd showed off a little longer. Great tune.
One Sweet Love to Remember: Starting off with a bass line like this, I knew this song could be nothing but funky. I really dig the rhythmic placement of the vocal melody - it's off and not where you would expect it to fall, and it just sounds so funky. Female vocalist breakin down on this one. The vocalists especially sound like they're having fun on this one. Solid groove.
Friday, October 14, 2011
Songs of The Day
Domelo (Give It to Me): Well this is a nice dose of funk to start the album off. I'm diggin the upbeat funk/disco feel goin on in this groove - definitely a nice wake-me-up. Love the horn lines and how they're paralleled by the vibes - very cool. It just sounds like everyone's groovin, jamin, havin a great time, and that's always fun to listen to. The groove stays consistent, even when it switches up, which is nice. I like that there's just one phrase to the whole thing, the main focus is the groove. Final "domelo" is awesome. Definitely wouldn't be opposed to puttin my dancin shoes on and gettin down to this.
Baby I Need Your Love: This is a nice contrast from the last song. We went from super upbeat and funky to super chilled out and mellow, yet still funky. The groove on this is definitely relaxing, good to just sit back and let your mind escape to. I like that its a simple motif repeated, and though that could get annoying, keeping the song at a short length helps avoid that. Very sweet tune.
Higher: And back to funky funk we go! I'm really digging these simple lyrical motifs - you can tell that you're really meant to listen to the groove above all else. The A and B sections work really well together, which is mainly due to the fact that they are so similar, but their similarity is what keeps them funky. The hits are just ahead of the beat, which I really dig. The breakdown, synth semi solo thing is pretty cool - gives the tune a cool futuristic vibe that wasn't there before - along with the rest of the ending groove. Dig it.
The Memory: This may be my favorite song on the day, the groove is just so sweet. This is one of those grooves that continues to build throughout the tune, and when that's done properly, it's one of my favorite things. I just love the blending going on between all the different instruments - really slick stuff. This is the pianos tune, for sure, and I dig it, especially the triplet groove they go on - oo wee. Super sweet, extra funky, I love it.
Baby I Need Your Love: This is a nice contrast from the last song. We went from super upbeat and funky to super chilled out and mellow, yet still funky. The groove on this is definitely relaxing, good to just sit back and let your mind escape to. I like that its a simple motif repeated, and though that could get annoying, keeping the song at a short length helps avoid that. Very sweet tune.
Higher: And back to funky funk we go! I'm really digging these simple lyrical motifs - you can tell that you're really meant to listen to the groove above all else. The A and B sections work really well together, which is mainly due to the fact that they are so similar, but their similarity is what keeps them funky. The hits are just ahead of the beat, which I really dig. The breakdown, synth semi solo thing is pretty cool - gives the tune a cool futuristic vibe that wasn't there before - along with the rest of the ending groove. Dig it.
The Memory: This may be my favorite song on the day, the groove is just so sweet. This is one of those grooves that continues to build throughout the tune, and when that's done properly, it's one of my favorite things. I just love the blending going on between all the different instruments - really slick stuff. This is the pianos tune, for sure, and I dig it, especially the triplet groove they go on - oo wee. Super sweet, extra funky, I love it.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Album Factoids
Ubiquity Vibrations
Released: 1976
Genre: Soul/Funk/Jazz
Label: Polydor
Producer: Roy Ayers
Released: 1976
Genre: Soul/Funk/Jazz
Label: Polydor
Producer: Roy Ayers
Week 54: Roy Ayers
Prior to Saturday, I had no idea who Roy Ayers was. Fresh ears are always fun. My friend, Stefan threw me a couple tracks, and I really liked what I heard. So, why not? The vibraphone is secretly one of my favorite instruments, so I think it's going to be fun get a little funk taste of it.v I'm down to get into some Jazz/Funk ish.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Final Grade: B
I dug Fancy Footwork. It was a pretty solid album, especially in terms of dance music. Had a difficult time keeping myself still, and that is always a good thing. The retro dance/r&b 80s was pretty sweet as well - I can definitely get down with that style. But, that being said, the 80s also bit them in the ass at times, which was mainly due to them making it too literal 80s, or more specifically, 80s synth-pop. The first half of the album is really awesome, but it definitely starts to trail off the last couple tunes, to the point where I am uninterested in the final tracks. But one thing is for damn sure - these boys know how to boogie, and I dig it.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Songs of The Day
Call Me Up: This is a pretty funky tune. Makes me wanna boogie. I think the hook on this one is pretty cool - I dig how minimal it is. Groove's nice and upbeat, which I dig. Pretty much, this is a solid dance beat, which is why I'm sure it stays instrumental for so long at the end. This long instrumental ending probably works perfectly on the dancefloor, but it doesn't translate the best just listening to the song - it gets a little monotonous after a while. I think it would have been better to keep this one on the shorter side, but hey, I'm still groovin, so I guess I can't really hate.
Waiting 4 U: This song is ok. I'm not the biggest fan of effect on the vocals, or how legato they are against the staccato beat - the juxtaposition doesn't work for me. The groove on this one is a little too mid-80s synth pop and not enough early 80s r&b like some of the previous tunes. The "rap" (more spoken than anything) sounds just like Rockwell's "Somebody's Watching Me," and I wouldn't call that a compliment. Not my favorite.
100%: Pretty lame way to end the album, if you ask me. I can definitely get down with the guitar line, I think it's pretty sweet, but the groove itself is pretty boring. Nothing about it is interesting me, which is disappointing because I was digging this album and I would have hoped for a better finale. Sax sounds corny. Eh.
Waiting 4 U: This song is ok. I'm not the biggest fan of effect on the vocals, or how legato they are against the staccato beat - the juxtaposition doesn't work for me. The groove on this one is a little too mid-80s synth pop and not enough early 80s r&b like some of the previous tunes. The "rap" (more spoken than anything) sounds just like Rockwell's "Somebody's Watching Me," and I wouldn't call that a compliment. Not my favorite.
100%: Pretty lame way to end the album, if you ask me. I can definitely get down with the guitar line, I think it's pretty sweet, but the groove itself is pretty boring. Nothing about it is interesting me, which is disappointing because I was digging this album and I would have hoped for a better finale. Sax sounds corny. Eh.
Friday, October 7, 2011
Songs of The Day
Opening Up (+ Ce Soir on Danse Interlude): I must say, this isn't my favorite day of songs. I dig this tune, it has a solid groove and is not going to keep me off the dancefloor, but I think it may be too literal 80s. The intro reminds me exactly of "Let's Hear It for The Boy" by Deniece Williams with the placement of the claps and what not. I like the simplicity of the groove, and the movement it provides, it's just kind of basic. I wish they'd made a longer song out of the interlude - I felt like that groove has a little more of a modern feel to it.
Momma's Boy: This song is fucking weird. It came on my shuffle yesterday, and I was pretty thrown off. It's about being attracted to people who remind you of your mom (if your a boy) or your dad (if your a girl). Granted, according to Freud, there is truth in that, but it's just such an odd premise for a song. Even so, this song could be redeemed with a cool groove, but that is not found here. It's pretty cheesy, which I'm sure is kind of the point, but I'm just not feelin it. Claps are a nice touch, I guess. It's good that it switches to to a more rock feel towards the end, but that doesn't exactly made up for the corniness of the first 75% of it. Not feelin it.
Momma's Boy: This song is fucking weird. It came on my shuffle yesterday, and I was pretty thrown off. It's about being attracted to people who remind you of your mom (if your a boy) or your dad (if your a girl). Granted, according to Freud, there is truth in that, but it's just such an odd premise for a song. Even so, this song could be redeemed with a cool groove, but that is not found here. It's pretty cheesy, which I'm sure is kind of the point, but I'm just not feelin it. Claps are a nice touch, I guess. It's good that it switches to to a more rock feel towards the end, but that doesn't exactly made up for the corniness of the first 75% of it. Not feelin it.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Songs of The Day
Bonafied Lovin (+ Tough Guys Interlude): These boys are funky, I cannot lie. The rock guitar on has a very Michael Jackson feel to it (very "Beat It" if you ask me) that I dig. I like that it drops down to a more simple groove in the verses so that you can pay attention to the vocals and the cool rhythm they have. Really solid dance groove on this one, but I'm starting to learn that that is precisely what these guys are around. "Oh oh"s are sweet - a nice, simple touch. Good layering build to the end. I really dig the interlude as well, the chords have what I would call a "chopped distance" to them. I guess you'll just have to listen to it to figure out what I'm talking about. Funky.
My Girl is Calling Me (A Liar): I dig the bass on this so hard. Super funky. Reminds me of "Cutie Pie" by One Way, which if you don't already know, is one badass song. Dig the rhythm breakdowns that happen in the turn arounds - they add a nice flavor. The longer chords in the chorus are a nice texture change from the shorter chords going on. Love the vocal/talk box exchange verse - cool shit. Definitely a cool tune. I approve.
Outta Sight: This groove very much reminds me of Prince's "1999" - even down to the the small change in the hook - but that's not a bad thing, because that song rocks. I dig the initial simplicity to this tune, it's got a great feel to it. This is another song that layers, and I dig it, but I think towards the end it seems to get a little overproduced, and I think it would have sounded better keeping the groove what it is around the second verse. Dig the held out chords at the end - they add a whole new color to the tune, which really works for the ending. Pretty good tune.
My Girl is Calling Me (A Liar): I dig the bass on this so hard. Super funky. Reminds me of "Cutie Pie" by One Way, which if you don't already know, is one badass song. Dig the rhythm breakdowns that happen in the turn arounds - they add a nice flavor. The longer chords in the chorus are a nice texture change from the shorter chords going on. Love the vocal/talk box exchange verse - cool shit. Definitely a cool tune. I approve.
Outta Sight: This groove very much reminds me of Prince's "1999" - even down to the the small change in the hook - but that's not a bad thing, because that song rocks. I dig the initial simplicity to this tune, it's got a great feel to it. This is another song that layers, and I dig it, but I think towards the end it seems to get a little overproduced, and I think it would have sounded better keeping the groove what it is around the second verse. Dig the held out chords at the end - they add a whole new color to the tune, which really works for the ending. Pretty good tune.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Songs of The Day
Intro: I can get down with this intro. If not for the crazy synth layering they've got going on, then for the fact that they sampled my favorite movie, The Wizard of Oz. Yup, that "Chromeo, oooh" is most definitely the same as the song the witch's guards sing when the lion, scarecrow, and tin man try to break in to save Dorothy. Yeah, I can get down with that.
Tenderoni: This is a pretty funky tune. Very mid 80s r&b, and seeing that I had a serious 80s phase back in 8th grade, I definitely dig it. Also, I've only really heard the word "Tenderoni" in a lyrical context in Michael Jackson's "P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)," which is one of my favorite MJ tunes. I also dig how "Tenderoni" is separate and put in that low octave - very cool. I love the dance groove goin on here, I just wanna boogie. The melody is super cool and supports the groove really well (and vise versa). Love the volume bring down, just to bring it right back up. And who doesn't love a song that ends on cowbell?? Solid as a rock.
Fancy Footwork: Even though this is the title track, I must say that I prefer the previous tune. Not to say that I don't find this song funky, because it definitely makes me want to - as the autotuned female says - two step, I just think the previous had a lil extra somethin to it. The percussion in this is pretty awesome - I can definitely get down. I wish the vocals were a little more prevalent, and some of the synth seems the tiniest bit crowded, but aside from that, I dig this tune. These guys definitely know how to get feet movin. Man, now I just wanna go dance. Anybody wanna join??
Tenderoni: This is a pretty funky tune. Very mid 80s r&b, and seeing that I had a serious 80s phase back in 8th grade, I definitely dig it. Also, I've only really heard the word "Tenderoni" in a lyrical context in Michael Jackson's "P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)," which is one of my favorite MJ tunes. I also dig how "Tenderoni" is separate and put in that low octave - very cool. I love the dance groove goin on here, I just wanna boogie. The melody is super cool and supports the groove really well (and vise versa). Love the volume bring down, just to bring it right back up. And who doesn't love a song that ends on cowbell?? Solid as a rock.
Fancy Footwork: Even though this is the title track, I must say that I prefer the previous tune. Not to say that I don't find this song funky, because it definitely makes me want to - as the autotuned female says - two step, I just think the previous had a lil extra somethin to it. The percussion in this is pretty awesome - I can definitely get down. I wish the vocals were a little more prevalent, and some of the synth seems the tiniest bit crowded, but aside from that, I dig this tune. These guys definitely know how to get feet movin. Man, now I just wanna go dance. Anybody wanna join??
Monday, October 3, 2011
Album Factoids
Fancy Footwork
Release: June 19, 2007
Genre: Electronic, Dance Pop
Label: Turbo, Vice, V2
Producer: Chromeo, Tiga
David "Dave 1" Macklovitch, Patrick "P-Thugg" Gemayel
I dig the mugs.
Release: June 19, 2007
Genre: Electronic, Dance Pop
Label: Turbo, Vice, V2
Producer: Chromeo, Tiga
David "Dave 1" Macklovitch, Patrick "P-Thugg" Gemayel
I dig the mugs.
Week 53: Chromeo
I actually meant to review this band last week, but completely forgot about it. Anyway, I heard some of this bands stuff at my friends place the other day, and I really dug it, so I decided to check it out. I've been in need of a new artist, and I dig the whole retro 80s comeback that's been going on in the music industry, so I'm excited to hear what these boys are about. Bring it.
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Final Grade: A
This album is pretty funkin funky. The Brothers Johnson most definitely knows how to hold down a groove. I can't say I'm completely surprised seeing as this is a Quincy Jones production. Everything is super tight, in the pocket - I seriously dig it. I also love that there are a couple instrumental tracks on here - it really lets George and Louis shine on their instruments. This album is great from start to finish, and it's gonna keep me groovin for quite some time. Funk at it's finest.
Songs of The Day
Land of Ladies: This track is pretty sick. I love how mellow the opening groove is, and it has such a great spacey feel to it. Segway into the more upbeat "land of ladies" groove is smooth - I dig it - right back into the initial groove. I'm glad it turned back around to this groove, because it was too good to just be an intro. Nice pick up in the chorus, back to mellow in the verses. The structure of this tune is pretty cool. Dig the bossa beat on the clave - very cool. Solid.
Dancin' and Prancin': This is by far the bounciest, most upbeat tune on the album so far. I dig the serious dance groove they've got going on here. Super pick up in funkiness in the chorus with the horn addition. The conversation going on in the back is actually pretty cool, but I do wish it were a little more subdued. Makes me wanna boogie.
The Devil: Man, this is a funky way to take the album out, but I would have expected nothing less. I love the scary vibe the tune has, which I'm guessing is the point seeing that the song is about the devil. The bass and guitar are oh so funky on this track! So tasty. Dig the distant feel in the vocals - adds great color to the tune. Pick up in the chorus is very cool. I love all of the little random noises going on, they work well with the tune. Super, super funky.
Dancin' and Prancin': This is by far the bounciest, most upbeat tune on the album so far. I dig the serious dance groove they've got going on here. Super pick up in funkiness in the chorus with the horn addition. The conversation going on in the back is actually pretty cool, but I do wish it were a little more subdued. Makes me wanna boogie.
The Devil: Man, this is a funky way to take the album out, but I would have expected nothing less. I love the scary vibe the tune has, which I'm guessing is the point seeing that the song is about the devil. The bass and guitar are oh so funky on this track! So tasty. Dig the distant feel in the vocals - adds great color to the tune. Pick up in the chorus is very cool. I love all of the little random noises going on, they work well with the tune. Super, super funky.
Friday, September 30, 2011
Songs of The Day
Tomorrow: I'm loving that there are multiple instrumental tracks on this album. I believe I've actually heard this track before as well, but that doesn't really surprise me. I'm diggin all the flute that's been on this album so far - funky. The switch in the futuristic B section is oh so cool. That synth is mighty funky for the two notes it's playing. This whole groove is just so laid back and mellow, but still holds it down. I wonder if Quincy arranged this. Dig the guitar paralleling the flute the second time around. Very cool track.
Free and Single: This has a happy feel to it that I dig. The "ya ya ya"s are a very cool vocal riff - you don't hear enough of those anymore. Funky horns in the B section. Man oh man is that bass funky - thank you Mr. Louis "Thunder Thumbs" Johnson. Solid groove throughout. Diggin the free and single lady message goin on here. Bring down at the end is very funky. Dig it.
Come Together: So this is a cover of one of the greatest Beatles songs ever, and Lightin Licks and Thunder Thumbs do it justice! I love the sultry feel they give it while keeping the darkness of the Beatles version. Everything is very subdued, and I dig it. Their interpretation of the guitar lick is really cool. Love the addition of the harmonica. Solid, solid tune.
Free and Single: This has a happy feel to it that I dig. The "ya ya ya"s are a very cool vocal riff - you don't hear enough of those anymore. Funky horns in the B section. Man oh man is that bass funky - thank you Mr. Louis "Thunder Thumbs" Johnson. Solid groove throughout. Diggin the free and single lady message goin on here. Bring down at the end is very funky. Dig it.
Come Together: So this is a cover of one of the greatest Beatles songs ever, and Lightin Licks and Thunder Thumbs do it justice! I love the sultry feel they give it while keeping the darkness of the Beatles version. Everything is very subdued, and I dig it. Their interpretation of the guitar lick is really cool. Love the addition of the harmonica. Solid, solid tune.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Songs of The Day
I'll Be Good to You: And the brothers now how to start off an album! I was actually already familiar with this tune, but it's still tasty every time. I love how smooth the whole thing is - very low key, but still heavy on the funk. Bass is holdin it down - as they should be. The hook on this is so sweet, especially with the repetition - it really puts an emphasis on the groove, not to mention the harmonies are awesome. Dig the high keys in the second verse. Everybody continues to build, but the pocket and the subtlety of the groove is never lost. Such a steady back beat - super consistent throughout. Oh, so nice.
Thunder Thumbs and Lightnin' Licks: Ah yes, an instrumental track, and oh how funky it is. These boys really know how to lay it (not that I'm at all surprised with a back bone like Quincy). Really dig the horns - super tight. And flute?? Oh, hey! Get funky with it! My only qualm is that it may be a tad long, just a tad. Sweet groove switch at the end. I can dig it.
Get The Funk out Ma Face: My, oh my do I love this song. Like I said before, this song is the reason I decided to review this album this week. This groove is just so tasty! So delicious! I love the hits on "then you'll know exactly how to groove" - so funky. And the high "outta ma faaaaace" - love it! No, Brothers Johnson, do NOT get the funk out ma face, it's too good. If you don't know this song, a, you should be ashamed, and b, you better listen to it now.
Thunder Thumbs and Lightnin' Licks: Ah yes, an instrumental track, and oh how funky it is. These boys really know how to lay it (not that I'm at all surprised with a back bone like Quincy). Really dig the horns - super tight. And flute?? Oh, hey! Get funky with it! My only qualm is that it may be a tad long, just a tad. Sweet groove switch at the end. I can dig it.
Get The Funk out Ma Face: My, oh my do I love this song. Like I said before, this song is the reason I decided to review this album this week. This groove is just so tasty! So delicious! I love the hits on "then you'll know exactly how to groove" - so funky. And the high "outta ma faaaaace" - love it! No, Brothers Johnson, do NOT get the funk out ma face, it's too good. If you don't know this song, a, you should be ashamed, and b, you better listen to it now.
Album Factoids
Look Out for #1 (their debut!)
Released: 1976
Genre: Soul/Funk
Label: A&M Records
Producer: Quincy Jones <-- oh hey!
Released: 1976
Genre: Soul/Funk
Label: A&M Records
Producer: Quincy Jones <-- oh hey!
Week 52: The Brothers Johnson
Oh hey, time to get into some funky stuff. I've been listening to a couple Brothers Johnson tunes this week, and seeing that this album was an early one suggested by my mom, I figured why not? I only know a couple tunes from these guys, so I'm excited to dive into a whole album. Oh yes, oh yes.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Final Grade: B/B+
This was a pretty sweet album. They've got the psychedelic-pop thing down. I think that the "pop" half got in the way a couple times. The acoustic guitar was a little over done and made some songs sound too similar to one another at times. Some songs also sounded a little cluttered at times. Aside from that, I really liked a lot of the ideas that are going on in this album. The songs have great a great feel and great movement that you don't find in a lot of typical "pop." Some great layering and great builds in this as well. I think my favorite song was probably "One More Robot / Symphany 3000-21" - I really dug the mellow feel, and I think The Flaming Lips probably would have benefited having a tune or two more like this one. Solid.
Monday, September 26, 2011
Songs of The Day
All We Have is Now: This is a pretty sweet tune. Very subdued, very low key - I like it. The last couple tunes have sounded a little cluttered, so it's nice to have something more stripped down. I dig the keys paralleling the melody - since the melody is so simple, the addition of the keys gives it a little more pop. The slight speed up in the B section is very cool, probably because it's so subtle. Dig it. This is a good song to just relax to. I can get down with it.
Approaching Pavonis Mons By Balloon (Utopia Planitia): My goodness, this song has quite the name! I guess that's appropriate for a final tune, or any tune for that matter. I'm not quite sure how I feel about this song, it will probably take a couple listens before I get into it. It's definitely got a cool groove - very spacey and out there, which I like - but like some previous tunes, it starts to get too cluttered and overwhelming and I begin to lose the elements of the song that I like. The pitch bend in the drums is cool. I also like the juxtaposition between the rock guitar and the harp - very cool. I'm not really sure how I feel about the horn part - I think that may be where I feel like it starts to get too cluttered. I definitely hear how this is a cool groove, but I think it needs some editing, especially being the final tune of the album.
Approaching Pavonis Mons By Balloon (Utopia Planitia): My goodness, this song has quite the name! I guess that's appropriate for a final tune, or any tune for that matter. I'm not quite sure how I feel about this song, it will probably take a couple listens before I get into it. It's definitely got a cool groove - very spacey and out there, which I like - but like some previous tunes, it starts to get too cluttered and overwhelming and I begin to lose the elements of the song that I like. The pitch bend in the drums is cool. I also like the juxtaposition between the rock guitar and the harp - very cool. I'm not really sure how I feel about the horn part - I think that may be where I feel like it starts to get too cluttered. I definitely hear how this is a cool groove, but I think it needs some editing, especially being the final tune of the album.
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Songs of The Day
It's Summertime: The opening of this tune has got a cool bouncy-like bass thing going on that I dig. It's got a cool feel to it. I wish the groove had embodied that feel more than the country-ish vibe it's got going on. It's a cool groove, but I think it's a little too happy. The bass made me think that the song was going to have a harder feel to it, so I was a little disappointed it didn't go in that direction. I do dig the layers going on - they provide a great build - but I think it starts to sound a little cluttered. Decent tune, but there've been better.
Do You Realize: I'm gonna go ahead and take a guess that this is their most popular song off of this album. I know I've heard it in more than one movie or commercial. It's definitely got a sweet feel too it. I wish the groove was a little quieter, more subdued. It kind of sounds like the melody is being swallowed up, whereas if everything were turned down about 4 notches, it would really shine. A build to the opening dynamic level would have been good, but I think it just comes out of the gate too heavy. Dig the drop out section - nice focus on the vocals. I dig the song, I think it's sweet, but I think a little editing could have made the song shine even more.
Do You Realize: I'm gonna go ahead and take a guess that this is their most popular song off of this album. I know I've heard it in more than one movie or commercial. It's definitely got a sweet feel too it. I wish the groove was a little quieter, more subdued. It kind of sounds like the melody is being swallowed up, whereas if everything were turned down about 4 notches, it would really shine. A build to the opening dynamic level would have been good, but I think it just comes out of the gate too heavy. Dig the drop out section - nice focus on the vocals. I dig the song, I think it's sweet, but I think a little editing could have made the song shine even more.
Friday, September 23, 2011
Songs of The Day
Yoshimi Battles the Pink Battles, Pt 2: So, if part one was the set up, part two is the battle. It sounds like a comic book battle in song form. I dig it. It's got a pretty sweet dub set element to it that I find to be pretty modern, which is interesting seeing that this album came out seven years ago. Dig the hits. Love the counteracting ascending and descending lines going on - they add a nice color. Pretty sweet instrumental tune.
In The Morning of the Magicians: I like how this and the previous tune meld into one another. This must be the victory celebration. I love the sweet build the intro has into a very simple, soft groove - very cool. I like that the two grooves play back and forth with one another. Their difference makes the shifts into one another more significant. Like the simplicity of the melody. There's a nice flow to the whole thing. Being the longest tune on the album at 6:19, the tune could have felt dragged along and monotonous, but they did a very good job of using the length properly. Very sweet.
Are You a Hypnotist: This has a pretty interesting groove to it, but I think it loses some of its gusto with the addition of the acoustic guitar. It makes it sound too similar to some of the other tunes on the album, and I think that it still holds very well without it it. Dig the echo effect on the vocals - very appropriate to the feel. I also dig the little rock flavor that gets added with the power chords that make an appearance every once and a while. B section is a little too poppy for my taste. The tune is pretty good, I just think a couple of things could have been edited to make it more unique to the other songs.
In The Morning of the Magicians: I like how this and the previous tune meld into one another. This must be the victory celebration. I love the sweet build the intro has into a very simple, soft groove - very cool. I like that the two grooves play back and forth with one another. Their difference makes the shifts into one another more significant. Like the simplicity of the melody. There's a nice flow to the whole thing. Being the longest tune on the album at 6:19, the tune could have felt dragged along and monotonous, but they did a very good job of using the length properly. Very sweet.
Are You a Hypnotist: This has a pretty interesting groove to it, but I think it loses some of its gusto with the addition of the acoustic guitar. It makes it sound too similar to some of the other tunes on the album, and I think that it still holds very well without it it. Dig the echo effect on the vocals - very appropriate to the feel. I also dig the little rock flavor that gets added with the power chords that make an appearance every once and a while. B section is a little too poppy for my taste. The tune is pretty good, I just think a couple of things could have been edited to make it more unique to the other songs.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Songs of The Day
Fight Test: This is a solid pop song to start the album with. I like the upbeat, happy feel it's got to it. Starting happy is never a bad thing. Steven Drozd is holding it down on the drum beat though - very solid. It's got a funkiness to them that counteracts the pop. The ethereal, open feel they've got going on is pretty - I like how light it is. The layering and slight echo of the vocals in the chorus add only enhance the open feel of the tune. I think the strangeness of the beginning and end help make this feel over-the-top pop. Sweet opening.
One More Robot / Sympathy 3000-21: The intro and outro remind me of an old horror film. I find it very cool. I like that this is a much more mellow groove than the previous - it's a nice switch up. I like all of the different sounds going on. The layering has a very "outer space" feel to them. The bass line is pretty funky, thank you, Michael Ivins. Really holds it down. The pick up/switch to major in the chorus is very cool. I wasn't expecting the song to go that route, but the surprise made me happy. It's a really well made B section. I wish the vocals were a liiiiittle bit clearer, but I feel like their distance is also a significant part of the feel of the tune. Though they aren't real, the strings at the end of the tune are tasteful. It does remind me a tiny bit of the soundtrack to Final Fantasy V though. Regardless, this is a very cool tune.
Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots, Pt. 1: I am not surprised that the title track has very silly lyrics, infact I would have expected nothing less. This song reminds me a lot of the first, which I'm not sure is the best thing so early in the game. I think going a little less poppy would have worked better here. It's almost a little too happy. The synth sounds they use to counteract that happiness are pretty cool though. It's a cute song, but my least favorite of the day so far.
Yoshimi Battles the Pink Rotos, Pt. 1:
One More Robot / Sympathy 3000-21: The intro and outro remind me of an old horror film. I find it very cool. I like that this is a much more mellow groove than the previous - it's a nice switch up. I like all of the different sounds going on. The layering has a very "outer space" feel to them. The bass line is pretty funky, thank you, Michael Ivins. Really holds it down. The pick up/switch to major in the chorus is very cool. I wasn't expecting the song to go that route, but the surprise made me happy. It's a really well made B section. I wish the vocals were a liiiiittle bit clearer, but I feel like their distance is also a significant part of the feel of the tune. Though they aren't real, the strings at the end of the tune are tasteful. It does remind me a tiny bit of the soundtrack to Final Fantasy V though. Regardless, this is a very cool tune.
Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots, Pt. 1: I am not surprised that the title track has very silly lyrics, infact I would have expected nothing less. This song reminds me a lot of the first, which I'm not sure is the best thing so early in the game. I think going a little less poppy would have worked better here. It's almost a little too happy. The synth sounds they use to counteract that happiness are pretty cool though. It's a cute song, but my least favorite of the day so far.
Yoshimi Battles the Pink Rotos, Pt. 1:
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Album Factoids
Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots
Released: July 15, 2002
Genre: Psychadelic Pop
Label: Warner Brothers
Producer: The Flaming Lips, Dave Fridmann, Scott Booker
Released: July 15, 2002
Genre: Psychadelic Pop
Label: Warner Brothers
Producer: The Flaming Lips, Dave Fridmann, Scott Booker
Week 51: Flaming Lips
This week's suggestion comes from my lovely roommates Dom and Charley. Looked at them on the couch, asked them to come up with an album suggestion, and they gave me this, so I'm gonna do it. I am only familiar with a couple Flaming Lips tunes, and I would probably only be able to identify them by sound - I don't think I could actually name them. So, I guess I have pretty fresh ears on this one, which is always fun. Also, this album title fucking rocks, so they've already got a plus. Here I go.
Monday, September 19, 2011
Final Grade: A-
This is one funky album. Talk about a tight band - they really know what's good with time. They've also got the build thing dooooown. So down. Lydia has a really great rock voice that gives a nice grit to the groove. I really loved "If You Will" and "Let Me Down Easy" - they both made me go "ugh" (in the best way possible). I thought that a couple songs went on a tad too long, but that was the only major criticism I had of the album. Definitely a solid funk/rock group. Definitely going to check more out from Cold Blood.
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Songs of The Day
I'm a Good Woman: This is a pretty cool tune. I really dig the call and response intro with Lydia a cappella and the horns - great way to start the tune. Dig the upbeat feel. Rod Ellicot aka the bad mother fucker on the bass is doin this song real dirty. Walking allll over the place! Love it. Man, this horn section is tight. There's a lot of power in this song, makes you pay attention. Solid. Love that it goes seamlessly into the next song.
Let My Down Easy: Oh boy, this song... this song is all kindsa nice. Love the opening with the piano trill - very mysterious, very intriguing. Organ sounds awesome. The horns really make this tune - they control the dynamic of the tune. They're soft and subtle, and then they punch you in the face in the chorus. Got me over here with a stank face when they bring the song up - too, too funky. And the bring down? My God. Lydia's grit really sells this tune - you believe her when she's pleading. Great fade out. This whole thing is just so, so tasty. May be my favorite...
Watch Your Step: This is a pretty solid way to close out the album. Great up beat feel that you can really groove too. Love the long intro before Lydia comes in - it really shows off the band. Man, oh man is this horn section tight. So, so tight. Ridiculous. Funny that the tune feels happy when the lyrics are the exact opposite of that. Lydia, killin as always. Solid.
Let My Down Easy: Oh boy, this song... this song is all kindsa nice. Love the opening with the piano trill - very mysterious, very intriguing. Organ sounds awesome. The horns really make this tune - they control the dynamic of the tune. They're soft and subtle, and then they punch you in the face in the chorus. Got me over here with a stank face when they bring the song up - too, too funky. And the bring down? My God. Lydia's grit really sells this tune - you believe her when she's pleading. Great fade out. This whole thing is just so, so tasty. May be my favorite...
Watch Your Step: This is a pretty solid way to close out the album. Great up beat feel that you can really groove too. Love the long intro before Lydia comes in - it really shows off the band. Man, oh man is this horn section tight. So, so tight. Ridiculous. Funny that the tune feels happy when the lyrics are the exact opposite of that. Lydia, killin as always. Solid.
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