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--=[ Ken Navarro 2 ]=--
2008-05-11 22:44:00
Ken Navarro - Brighter Days (1995)Link 2Maryland guitarist Ken Navarro and his independent label, Positive Music, have shouldered their way in among the Larry Carltons and GRPs of the world to become major players in the pop-instrumental field. Not only have Navarro's own albums consistently landed in the top 10 of the "adult alternative" and "new adult contemporary" charts, but so have those of his labelmates Gregg Karukas and Bobby Militello. Navarro's sixth solo album, "Brighter Days," is a further refinement of his label's successful formula: bright, easily digestible pop melodies played cleanly and precisely over steady, comfortable rhythms. This recording features the presence of Positive Music's saxophonist Brandon Fields, who adds a slightly different spin to Navarro's melodies in easy-going, Najee-like lines. Navarro himself plays nylon-string guitar on 6 of the 10 cuts, lending a delicate, Earl Klugh-like feel to the proceedings.* From the DWBass collection *All track...
More About: Jazz

--=[ Jazz For Couch Potatoes ]=--
2008-05-11 21:24:00
Various Artists - Jazz For Couch Potatoes (2004)Link 2Regardless of what other reviewers may have said about this album being somewhat of a "lackluster" effort, I actually enjoyed listening to a lot of the themes from television shows I grew up with. And to be able to listen to them as jazz interpretations only made them even more interesting to listen to again.* Another great album from DWBass *All track info is in the comment section...

--=[ Chris Geith ]=--
2008-05-11 21:04:00
Chris Geith - Timeless World (2008)Link 2Chris Geith began playing piano at the age of six. Starting with classical, Chris moved into jazz, later branching out into contemporary jazz. His first album "Forever Again" was signed in 1996 by "Arta Records" in Europe, and his second album "Prime Time" was signed by "Jive Records" in Asia in 2001.The Chris Geith Group has traveled to Europe to perform at international jazz festivals such as Veneto Jazz, and the Euromeet festivals in Italy. Chris Geith has also played keyboards for super star Julie Andrews, and has shared the stage with celebrities such as Paul Anka, Joe Piscopo.With the new project "Timeless World", Chris has created a contemporary instrumental/jazz album in every sense of the term, varied in its smooth melodies, sophisticated chord progressions and elaborate arrangements. "Waves Of Life", the first radio single features Nuance Music Group founder/smooth jazz rising star Matt Marshak on acoustic guitar.* Another great DWB...
More About: Chris

--=[ Keiko Matsui ]=--
2008-05-11 21:02:00
BET Jazz presents Keiko Matsui (DVD performance CD 1) (2000)CD 1 Link 2BET Jazz presents Keiko Matsui (DVD performance CD 2) (2000)CD 2 Link 2Keiko Matsui may have won a few Smooth Jazz Awards, but the Japanese- born, classically influenced keyboardist's music is not jazz--at least not if your definition of jazz includes swinging, the blues, and improvisation, all of which are in relatively short supply in this nearly 90-minute performance (plus DVD bonus features, including an interview with the artist). Not that it matters, really. Whatever you call the style--"contemporary instrumental" seems as good a term as any--Matsui is one of its more appealing, and certainly most popular, exponents. A capable if not virtuosic player, she and her four-piece band (including a Japanese guitarist who seems to have listened to a lot more Jimi Hendrix than Jim Hall) offer up a generous set of 14 songs, all of them Matsui compositions. As titles like "Beyond the Light," "Night Waltz" and "Bridge...

--=[ Saravah Soul ]=--
2008-05-11 21:01:00
Saravah Soul - Saravah Soul (2008)Link 2Exploding out of the rich cultural mix in the melting-pot of London's underground music scene comes the half-Brazilian, half-British, Afro-Brazilian Funk sound of Saravah Soul.Fronted by fiery break dancer Otto Nascarella, the intensity of their live shows has earned them a reputation for wild performances and a rapidly expanding fan base. Now their ground breaking first album (self-titled Saravah Soul) has caused an international stir amongst record labels eager to sign them, and the band seems set on an unstoppable rise to even wider acclaim.* Big ups to Frank Black @ Funk Universum *All track info is in the comment section...
More About: Jazz Fusion

--=[ Peter Muller ]=--
2008-05-11 20:59:00
Peter Muller - M-Vibez (2003)Link 2Out of the blue Peter Muller released his debut album in 2003 and it already became a "Bass Classic".Muller is probably the most exciting new bass player on the Jazz /Funk /Fusion market. His CD is a journey through all facets of contemporary electric bass playing, great musicians are featured, for example Britains sax legend Frank Mead and Barbara Dennerleins trumpet player Christian Kappe. Besides his outstanding bass playing Peter Muller obtained a great reputation as a producer and sound engineer with his debut "M-Vibez".* Another great DWBass post *All track info is in the comment section...
More About: Peter

--=[ Vital Information ]=--
2008-05-11 20:59:00
Vital Information - Vitalization (2007)Link 2On the band's 12th album, Vitalization, Vital Information continues to hone its "U.S. music" direction while staking out some adventurous new territory. The seasoned veterans cover a lot of bases on Vitalization and do it all in such convincing fashion.* Another great DWBass post *All track info is in the comment section...
More About: Jazz , Funk , Vital , Jazz Fusion

--=[ Regina Belle ]=--
2008-05-11 20:30:00
Regina Belle - Love Forever Shines (2008)Link 2LOVE FOREVER SHINES comprises 14 spirit-filled tracks including such songs as "Almost Slipped," "I Hope He Understands," "Victory," and "I Call On Jesus" featuring award-winning gospel artist Shirley Murdock. A noted songwriter in her own right, Belle penned many of the songs featured on the project, as well as collaborated with her brother Bernard Belle, a well-known music industry songwriter who produced and arranged many of the album's tracks. Award- winning Gospel artist, Melvin Williams (Williams Brothers) duets with Belle on the song, "Good To Be Loved," as well Williams' vocals can be heard accompanying her on background on the first single, "God Is Good.""These songs are very personal," Belle comments about the new CD. "They come from my own life experiences. So I had to be very active in the writing part of the project. One day I was sitting in a hotel room in Detroit. I was feeling completely alone. So I asked the Lord...
More About: Regina

--=[ Spur of the Moment ]=--
2008-05-11 19:59:00
Spur of the Moment - Urban Renewal (2008)Link 2Spur of the Moment is back with its much anticipated third album release, Urban Renewal, available now. Wayne, Kenny and Kevin have once again brought their personal style of urban jazz to music lovers everywhere with another amazing 12 tracks featuring Kim Waters, Bridgette Bryant and award-winning producer Chris "Big Dog" Davis.Spur of the Moment - Out of the Shadows (2000)Link 2The second disc, Out of the Shadows produced the number one single "In My Corner." Additionally, some of the top names in Smooth Jazz have profitted thanks to production help from Spur of the Moment and founder, Wayne Bruce. Artists like Will Downing, Maysa, Najee, Kim Waters, Marion Meadows and others have all been produced by the talented members of Spur of the Moment.Spur of the Moment - SpurAddict (1996)Link 2The debut CD, SpurAddict, was a Washington, DC radio favorite spawning two top five singles, the Janet Jackson cover "Anytime, Anyplace" and "I Wanna...

--=[ La Melodia ]=--
2008-05-11 19:35:00
La Melodia - Vibing High [2006]Vibing Link 2La Melodia consists of female MC Melodee and producer / DJ I.N.T. The duo stands for warm, soulful yet raw hiphop music from the Netherlands.In 2006, La Melodia signed their album deal. Seven busy studio months later, La Melodias debut finally saw the light of day in Japan in December 2006 through Handcuts Records/Universal Japan. Vibing High is an organic whole of raw beats, bossa nova and warm soul with hiphop as a basis. Music is all about vibe and feel is the main thought behind the debut, on which Melodee tells about her youth in The South, her love for music and more, surrounded by the warm sounds of I.N.T. Of course the album isnt reserved for Japanese ears only; Vibing High was released in the Netherlands on September 28th, 2007 by PIAS Netherlands. A release in the rest of Europe and the US followed later that year.La Melodia is all about feel good vibes. And spreading those vibes across the globe. So come and taste the flavor vib...
More About: Hip Hop , Underground

--=[ Keith Sweat 2 ]=--
2008-05-11 17:37:00
Keith Sweat - Make It Last Forever [1987]Sweat Link2Keith Sweat's landmark album & the best full album of his career, "Make it Last Forever" is the kind of album that brings back a load of memories around the time period of 1987-1988.When I first heard "I Want Her" from this 1987 recording, I dropped what I was doing and ran to a record store. The single is the prototype for what Teddy Riley, who did the drum and keyboard programming on the song, would call "New Jack Swing." It has hip-hop's rhythmic chatter and R&B's fierce uptempo drive. Although Riley contributes to most of the songs on this disc, Sweat has a different direction in mind. He aspires to be--and with future releases became--the king of the slow jam. His warm, deep tenor and his intelligently crafted songs set the standard for the pre-Maxwellian lover man.Keith Sweat - Keith Sweat [1996]Keith Link 2Satisfaction guaranteed by two hit singles: Twisted & Nobody which are great choices for chilldown in the...
More About: Keith , Keith Sweat

--=[ Hiroko Kokubu ]=--
2008-05-11 16:35:00
Hiroko Kokubu - Pure Heart [1995]Pure Link 2"Vitamina" reminds me of Bob James' style, whereas "Once and Forever" and "Happiest You" are perhaps more similar to Viacheslav Gorsky's or Dan Siegel's piano work. "Carry Me With the Wind", "Weekend", and "It's Cool" sound like the kind of music Keiko Matsui might have released... if Ms. Kokubu hadn't beat her to it. Her refreshing cover of Paul Simon's "Mrs. Robinson" adds a Latin flair that includes electric guitar, strong percussion and a horn section to her very fast-paced piano licks. I really like what she's done with it.An absolute pleasure to listen to and of course great to listen to at dinner parties.All track info is in the comment section...
More About: Jazz

--=[ Musiq Soulchild ]=--
2008-05-10 22:54:00
Musiq Soulchild - Luvanmusiq (2007)Link 2While Luvanmusiq is Musiq's shortest record to date, it certainly was one of the better albums released in 2007. Instead of spreading it out over the whole disc as he had done in previous records. Musiq kept it short and sweet with these 12 tracks. Check out "Teachme" and "Today" and you'll see what I mean...Musiq Soulchild - Soulstar (2005)Link 2This record was supposed to have been called Soulstarradio but I guess it was too late to change it at the time Musiq wanted. In any case, Soulstar features guest spots by Carol Riddick and Bilal and a pretty interesting remake of "missyou," originally recorded by the Rolling Stones. Favorite tracks include "soulstar" and "whereareyougoing."Musiq Soulchild - Juslisen (2002)Link 2Of all Musiq's records released to date, this is my favorite one. Following on the coattails of his platinum-selling debut album, Musiq returns with "Juslisen." Now I'm gonna have you all do what the man said and l...
More About: Musiq Soulchild

--=[ Pharrell and the Yessirs ]=--
2008-05-10 22:53:00
Pharrell - Out Of My Mind (UNRELEASED) (est. 2007)Link 2When N*E*R*D frontman Pharrell Williams finally (finally) dropped his solo set "In My Mind" people marveled at the quality of production as well as his seemingly innate ability to jump from R&B to hip-hop on the same record. Later, in subsequent interviews, Pharrell stated that he was not "fully satisfied" with the overall outcome of the record, and the content of this record "Out Of My Mind" was more in line with what he wanted. The songs from "In My Mind" are recreated, this time with live instrumentation (and some help from his newly formed band The Yessirs featuring The Roots drummer ?uestlove) as well as a few unreleased tracks. If you are a fan of "In My Mind" please check this record out. You may find that you like the live instrumentation more...All track info is in the comment section...
More About: Hip Hop , Pharrell

--=[ Blackalicious ]=--
2008-05-10 19:39:00
Blackalicious - Blazing Arrow (2002)Link 2The first song that I heard by this group was "Make You Feel That Way." The track was sooo smooth and had a jazzy hip-hop feel to it. And you all know I LOVE jazzy hip-hop beats, so as far as I was concerned this group is a winner. Blackalicious consists of rapper Gift of Gab and DJ/producer Chief Xcel. Other than the aforementioned song, if you really wanna a song to bump in your ride, choose "The Sky Is Falling." Just the thing you need when you need a pick-me-up, and you realize that you don't own a coffee machine...All track info is in the comment section...
More About: Hip Hop

--=[ 112 ]=--
2008-05-10 19:37:00
112 - Part III (2001)Link 2112's third record "Part III" is 16 tracks full of that R&B flavor that their fans have come to know and love. This time they divvy up the record into uptempo tracks ("Peaches and Cream", "Dance With Me") and still bring out the soulful, gospel-esque ballads that have been their backbone from day one ("Missing You," "Still In Love"). Hopefully some of these OTHER wannabe R&B singers will listen to these records and find that talent is not something you can manufacture, but something you need to damn near be BORN with.112 - Room 112 (1998)Link 2After a very strong debut album (and the murder of labelmate The Notorious BIG), 112 returns with their sophomore album "Room 112." This album marked the beginning of the group's attempt to subtly move into more uptempo beats. Favorite songs on this record include "Crazy Over You," "Never Mind" and "Your Letter."112 - 112 (1996)Link 2Ladies and gentlemen, this record is by far one of the best R&B ...

--=[ Earth Wind and Fire 2 ]=--
2008-05-10 19:31:00
Earth, Wind & Fire - Illumination (2005)Link 2This album is what every family should play at the family reunions, because there is a strong mix of the good ol' EWF flavor that has allowed them to sustain longevity in the game as well as a lot of the newness from the more TALENTED artists of today. On this record, Ralph, Maurice, Phillip and Verdine are joined by guest artists Raphael Saadiq, Sleepy Brown, will.i.am and Brian McKnight. For a group that has released about 3 dozen records, I have to speak for all of us that:Earth, Wind & Fire are well-grounded and relevant in the ever-changing R&B genre (earth),are still able to adjust to current trends to keep their sound fresh (wind),and once it drops it's nothing but HEAT!!! (fire).Earth, Wind & Fire - The Promise (2003)Link 2This album has a lot of smooth jazz elements ("Why", "Betcha") infused with the R&B that they have been known to do for so many years. Not sure why this record didn't get as much recog...
More About: Jazz , Earth

--=[ Boyz II Men 2 ]=--
2008-05-10 19:28:00
Boyz II Men - Full Circle (2002)Link 2This record was and still IS HEAT! What I don't get is why people in Japan and other places overseas can see that, but yet the record went aluminum in the US. I just don't get it. This album has guest spots by Faith Evans and Rob Jackson. The album was well-produced, well-executed. Hell, I bought TWO copies! Check it out and let us know what YOU think...Boyz II Men - Nathan Michael Shawn Wanya (2000)Link 2Another slept-on record. This album spawned hits such as "Thank You In Advance" and "Pass You By" but has SO many more hits like "I Do," "Do You Remember," and "I Finally Know." Speaking of which, "I finally know" that you can't go by reviews. Boyz II Men has has a stellar career and have spawned several records that will run circles around prepubescent punks who some have donned "the future of R&B." In any case, check this record out and formulate you OWN opinion...All track info is in the comment section...

--=[ Jazzin' Park ]=--
2008-05-10 19:14:00
Jazzin' Park - We Are Together (2007)Link 2Jazzin' Park didn't suffer the sophomore jinx with their second full-length album, "We Are Together!" This album mixes a lot of J-pop and J-soul that morphs into one hell of a record. Favorite tracks include "Shine," "Long Time Ago (remix)," "Summer Love" and "You Are."Told y'all that these albums were HEAT!!! We got them both here! Check them out, play them LOUD in your car all year long! No excuses!Jazzin' Park - Jazzin' Park (2006)Link 2This here is the all-too-elusive self-titled debut album by the duo known as Jazzin' Park. Their hit single, "Long Time Ago," was found on one of the Tokyo Nu Jazz collections (also posted here) and ever since then the hunt to find this group's work has commenced. The group has a few upbeat records here, but for the most part, this album as well as its successor are indeed a treat! Hopefully you all will enjoy them as much as we have!* Very special thanks to nophanyahya for the s/t debut!!!...
More About: J-Pop , Nu jazz

--=[ BLACKstreet ]=--
2008-05-10 19:07:00
BLACKstreet - Level II (2003)Link 2It just wouldn't be BLACKstreet if someone weren't to leave the group prior to the next record. This time Terrell Phillips leaves and Mark Middleton returns (gasp!). Level II was nowhere near as great of an album as "Another Level," however it does have its moments. Tracks like "You Made Me," "It's So Hard To Say Goodbye," and "Baby You're All I Want" are all among the better tracks found here. Former BLACKstreet member David Hollister even makes an appearance on the record. Although one does have to wonder what they were trying to do with "Wizzy Wow"...BLACKstreet - Finally (1999)Link 2After the mega-success of "Another Level" BLACKstreet fans began to wonder if and WHEN the next album would come out. Hence, the title "Finally." This time Mark Middleton exits for a solocareer and is replaced by Terrell Phillips. There was a lot of filler on this record, which is not like Teddy Riley to do (e.g., "Black and White"). In any case, the gr...
More About: Blackstreet

--=[ The Whispers 2 ]=--
2008-05-10 17:26:00
The Whispers - So Good [1984]So Good Link 2The hit L.A.-based R&B group's 1984 album for the Solar label. 10 tracks, including 'Some Kinda Lover' (Radio Version).On this album there is early production by Babyface and a fantastic duet with the last great Phyllis Hyman on the song "Suddenly". This is one of the best "Whispers" albums ever.The Whispers-Just Gets Better With Time [1987]Whispers Link 2The whole album is more than listenable. "Rock Steady", "Love's Calling", and the title track are nothing short of pure bliss. It is surely one of music's great mysteries why "Love's Calling" did not make the R&B Top 40.All track info is in the comment section...

--=[Siah And Yeshua Dapoed]=--
2008-05-10 17:00:00
Siah And Yeshua Dapoed-The Visualz Anthology[2008]Visualz Link 2Siah and Yeshua DapoED is a New York-based hip hop duo. They released their 1996 debut album The Visualz EP on Bobbito Garcia's famous record label Fondle 'Em Records.The group's song "The Cure for Stagnation" appears on the 1998 compilation album Deeper Concentration." "A Day Like No Other", a remix of the group's song "A Day Like Any Other", was released on Mary Joy Records in 1998. The track features Yeshua DapoED, Murs, EL-P, and Shing02 freestyling over beats from the original song.All track info is in the comment section...
More About: Hip Hop , Underground

--=[ Kreative Resource ]=--
2008-05-10 15:46:00
Kreative Resource - The Difference Is Us [2008]KR Link 2Kreative Resource is a collective consisting of 3 California Bay Area hiphop junkies. SpeakFree (Emcee), Ster CraZY (Emcee) and KAY6 (BEATS).The crew was originally formed in 2006 with SpeakFree and KAY6 who released the underground smash "First Things First". In late 06' Ster CraZY joined the group after collaborating on a track from the 1st album.The Difference is Us is their official debut album. - tooskyAll track info is in the comment section...
More About: Hip Hop , Underground

--=[ Four80East ]=--
2008-05-09 23:10:00
Four80East - En Route [2007]En Route link 2Canadian Jazz /electronica outfit Four80East returns for their highly-anticipated new studio album En Route. Titled for its constant flow of instrumental groove, the contemporary duo's Native Language Music debut and first new release in five years puts a fresh spin on their past work to create a collection that's remarkably cinematic.Four80east is the Toronto based duo consisting or Rob DeBoer (piano, guitar, bass, programming) and Tony Grace (drums, programming), who, along with Grace's brother Paul, run Boomtang Records.The other half of the band is Bryden Baird on trumpet, and Jon Stewart on tenor saxophone.They are no stranger to the international circuit having attracted a fair bit of attention back in the 90s with several well-received projects, working as producers or remixers of other pop stars like Corey Hart, Amanda Marshall, Wild Strawberries...Four80East - Nocturnal [2001]Nocturnal Link 2As the Boomtang Boys, the Canadian duo...
More About: Electronica , Four

--=[ The Gap Band ]=--
2008-05-09 18:31:00
The Gap Band - Magicians Holiday [Rare][1974]Rare Link 2Growing up with a Pentecostal minister father, the Wilson brothers formed the Greenwood, Archer, and Pine Street Band in 1967, with Tuck Andress (later of Tuck and Patti). The name was chosen to honor the tragic but affirming memory of the streets (Greenwood Ave., Archer St., Pine St.) that formed the African American business district of Tulsa, Oklahoma also called Black Wall Street. The Greenwood district was the site of one of the most violent racially motivated attacks in United States history. The complete destruction of the community was the result of the Tulsa Race Riot.The band released their first record with Ernie Faust on lead vocals on an indie label in 1974. At the time, the group had up to twelve musicians, including drummer Roscoe Smith. Condensing to the three brothers and with producers Leon Russell and Buddy Jones at the helm. Buddy goes for a mellow funk recalling Billy Preston's early 70s hits ("Backbone" s...

--=[ Was (Not Was) ]=--
2008-05-09 15:25:00
Was (Not Was) - Boo! [2008]They're back...Was (Not Was) the darlings of the avant disco set and avatars of the absurd have emerged from the abyss of the recording industry with a new long-player, Boo! It's been almost 20 years since their last salvos of surrealistic soul and Jurassic dance mixes delighted and terrified nightclub crawlers and pop maniacs with the hits Walk the Dinosaur and Spy in the House of Love. Once again these shamelessly funky court jesters (featuring the original line up, plus some very special guests) are mixing it up and working without a net, performing a high-wire act that stretches from the ridiculous to the sublime. Are you scared yet?* Another Great DWBass Post *Was [Not Was] ~ Crazy WaterAll track info is in the comment section...
More About: Funk

--=[ Lalah Hathaway ]=--
2008-05-09 13:40:00
Lalah Hathaway - Self Portrait [2008]Lalah Link 2? ...this is the first record that I?ve ever worked on from start to finish including developing the concept, styling, the sequence and selection of the songs, the musicians, the producers, the marketing, the way it sounds?everything. That?s why I call it Self-Portrait because it?s my fifth album but it feels like my first. ??Lalah HathawayThe album features additional production contributions from Rex Rideout who was responsible for Hathaway's most recent #1 single, a 2004 cover of Luther Vandross' "Forever, For Always, For Love." Other producers include Paula Gallitano, Kenneth Crouch, and Terrace Martin. Martin notably worked on Snoop Dogg's Ego Trippin' album. Self Portrait also features contributions from singer/songwriters Sandra St. Victor (who performed with Hathaway on the Daughters of Soul tour), and underground soul singer Rahsaan Patterson.All track info is in the comment section...

--=[ Chris Botti ]=--
2008-05-09 00:38:00
Chris Botti - Italia [2007]"Chris Botti has the integrity of Miles Davis, the sexiness of Chet Baker and sells records like Kenny G. It's a triple combination."The theme is Italy, as you would deduce from the title and nicely carried through. Three tracks with vocals, one with Dean Martin in one of those post retirement duets that seem to be in vogue, but well done, none the less.Chris Botti - To Love Again [2005]Somewhere, Kenny G is hiding behind his cascading ringlets in shame. Chris Botti, a jazz world super-talent whose trumpeting earns frequent comparisons to Miles Davis and Chet Baker, has found the formula for classing up the pop charts, and within it there's not a single soaring sax or tired attempt at career revivalism to be found. What we're treated to instead is an all-star lineup (Sting, Gladys Knight, Michael Buble and others) vocally saluting a musician whose resume reads like a page torn out of the Rock Snob's Dictionary: in addition to touring with Sting, Botti ...
More About: Chris

--=[ Gospel 10 ]=--
2008-05-08 18:21:00
Cynthia Jones - Gotta Soul [2008]I absolutely love the mellow neo-soul sound of her music. The lyrics are what everyone is saying they are: uncompromising,unapologetic,bold and thought provoking. I longed for this style of music without it having a sensual or provocative sound. What's amazing is that she accomplishes this while compelling you to have a deeper love for Jesus Christ.Her musical influences are evident....Erykah Badu,Jill Scott,Lisa Mc Clendon,Debra Killings, yet her own creativity still flows. More specifically about "Gotta Soul", track #10 shares her personal struggle with depression; #12 could be an anthem to refute those who say all roads lead to heaven. Track #14 is just smooth (like ice cream :) You will love the jazzy scatting on #2 and the overall theme of the song.The title track #9 has a definite purpose and will hit its mark on your heart. #6 "Love Jones" will make you want one if you don't have one.Just check out the cd yourself....it won't disappoint.* Y...
More About: Gospel

--=[ Eric Benet ]=--
2008-05-08 16:44:00
Eric Benet-True to Myself [1996]Benet Link 2Like Luther Vandross, Eric Benet (pronounced beh-NAY) is an old-fashioned, romantic soul singer in the vein of Stevie Wonder and Al Green; Benet even includes a sample of Green's "Love and Happiness" in his own song, "More Than Just a Girlfriend." Unlike Vandross, however, Benet has also absorbed the funk-rock moves of Sly Stone, George Clinton and Prince, a connection emphasized by Benet's remake of Stone's, "If You Want Me To Stay." Many have tried, but few have combined these styles as effectively as Benet does on his debut solo album. Benet's tenor purrs with seductive soulfulness, but those vocals are surrounded by rocking wah-wah guitars, beeping synthesizers and funky, on-the-one drum patterns.Eric Benet-A Day in the Life [1999]Eric Link 2Eric Benét is a significant contender in the line of young soul men (Maxwell, D'Angelo, Kenny Lattimore) who combine thoughtful lyricism, an old school R&B feel, and smooth sensuality. One...
More About: Eric Benet