All The Way Live: James Morrison Strums His Way Into Dallas

There were a number of confused faces when I relayed to friends that I was seeing James Morrison in concert last Thursday. There were lots of "who?" and one "You mean Jim Morrison...right?" (FYI: Jim Morrison from The Doors has been dead for thirty-something years last time I checked...). As one of my main passions and purposes in life is to pass on good music to my peers, it was pure fun just to grin and go, "Google him and be amazed". James Morrison is a vocalist you should know by now, especially if you like a great, solid and distinguishable voice that is filled with that raw soul power. Mr. Morrison definitely has that "it" factor and it radiates live. The British guitarist caught my attention back when his debut, Undiscovered was released in 2007. I was amazed that this growly and mighty soulful tone came from this lanky white guy from England, and well, he wasn't going to be "undiscovered" for very long. Flash to a year later and James is on album #2 (Songs For You, Truths For Me) and is getting some much needed exposure.


So, loaded on DayQuil and with my two best buds (Brittany and Lindsay), I engaged in a night at the Granada Theater in Dallas, with the Magic Morrison. The place was pretty packed as James Morrison pointed out during his set, and it surprised me at how many people in the Dallas area came out and supported. James kicked started the show off perfectly with "The Only Night" from Songs For You, Truths For Me, and it was a killer opener...and you didn't even miss the horns which are present on the original. James went mostly through a bulk of his newer tracks such as "You Make It Real", "Precious Love" and "Broken Strings", not growing tired and switching through about three guitars for each song. His energy on stage was one to marvel at, as he just plugged away through each song. He of course did numbers from his debut, with "You Give Me Something" sounding oh so tender and lovely. "If You Don't Wanna Love Me" was one of my favorite performances of the night as pain and angst radiated through James's voice so honestly that you could just feel it...gave me the shivers, and no it wasn't because my DayQuil was wearing off, it was because the man seriously ejected some serious emotion. Another fun moment was during the performance of "Nothing Ever Hurt Like You" where James dipped into the vaults and dove into a rousing performance of the Stevie Wonder classic, "Uptight (Everything's Alright)", and the crowd got wildly excited. All in all, it was a great night and totally worth dragging out of my sick bed to attend.


Audio Diva Notes

• Be jealous...I met James Morrison. I contained myself and got a poster signed by him. Sadly, I couldn't take a photo...grumpy publicists wouldn't let us.
• The opening act was a piano player by the name of Diane Birch. She reminded me loads of Carole King and she did a slowed down version of Haddaway's "What Is Love", which surprisingly works as a ballad!
• James Morrison's CD's cost $10...and the tote bags they sold were $15, just in case you cared.
• We saw James Morrison right when we drove up the venue...he was a few feet in front of my friend's car, and of course she screamed, possibly scaring James as he walked back (quickly) to his bus....
• My camera was overwhelmed with all the James-ness going on so the battery died before I could take videos...boo.

Album Watch: The Search For Sade Somewhat Over

2009 is clearly shaping up to be the year of "Grown & Sexy" as jazz-n-soul vocalist, Sade is making her return this year. Yes, you read the sentence before you correctly...the Queen of Cool is making a comeback to the music scene this year with a new album after a nine year absence. Get out of the city! Apparently, someone spilled the beans...and that someone was another member of the "Grown & Sexy" troupe...Maxwell himself, whom has worked with both Sade and her band in the past. While the information about Sade's upcoming project is scarce at the moment, this is just a heads up to those who have been missing the hell out of the "Smooth Operator" vocalist. But if you just can't wait any longer, Sade's "team" has re-launched her webpage and you can also stay up-to-date with her upcoming project through her MySpace and Facebook. How can someone so connected socially online be so damn secretive? Only Sade. Expect the new album to appear on shelves this Fall.

Song Stuck In My Head: I'm Decending From Heaven Above

"Catch Me (I'm Falling)"-Pretty Poison (1988)

In honesty, this is one of my favorite pop songs of all-time. Yes, I'm a sucker for a random electric guitar solo and some cutesy lyrics about being in love. Sue me. Even after not hearing it for years and re-discovering it about a week ago, I still can't help but think this is pop perfection. Sadly, Pretty Poison didn't achieve much success after this track was released, but well...they kind of brought it on themselves. When you make a song so accessibly catchy (this song is a sneaky little mash-up of about five varying musical genres) it's just feasibly hard to live up to the hype. So its quite understandable why they were doomed on the cruise ship for one-hit wonders. Still the band hit it great the first time out and that's what's important in the end. Perky, slick and catchy as hell...this will be lodged in my brain come next week, betcha ten bucks.

Pretty P. on Soild Gold...chose this over the original video as you can hear the song, and not sound bytes from an obscure Jon Cryer film called, Hiding Out...lead singer, Jade Starling has some serious red hair, in fact, a lot of the hair in this performance is serious.

Maxwell Spreads His 'Pretty Wings'

Oh...this is niiiice. The wait has been so worth it. To be honest, I don't even know what is going on in this video. I was far too busy getting caught up in the rapture of the elegantly soulful track known as "Pretty Wings" to notice the visuals. Not to mention, I was also feeling quite satisfied that Maxwell is officially back and looking mighty fine as well...so yeah, about the video...I'll get back to you on that. *Sigh*

Audio Vision: Karina Gets The Unplugged Treatment

Like Shanice and Stacy Lattisaw before her, Karina Pasian is apart of the "So Young But Oh, So Talent" brigade. Listening to Karina's voice, you are hard pressed to think that she is indeed only sixteen years of age. But she is, and she will blow you away. In this day in age where true voices are kind of a lost art (especially in the young-ins), it's refreshing to hear Karina. Especially in this RAWsession's special where she debuts a new track called, "Mercury". The track is quite impressive and since this is just Karina with a piano accompaniment it's definitely something worth hearing. On another note, she's really giving me Mya Moodring vibes with that hairstyle...but she looks cute. Still not convinced of the vocal talent? See her also do a stirring performance of one of my favorites from '08, the gorgeous track "Slow Motion" from Karina's debut, First Love, is given the raw treatment after the cut.

Cover Smother: There Will Be 'Sob Stories' That Will Make You Chic

You aren't expected to know who Jacqui Brookes is, as she came and went with the track, "Lost Without Your Love" in the middle of an icy new-wave drenched 1984. Still you should enjoy the chic as hell album cover of her only album, Sob Stories. Now this is what an cover from the 1980's should contain. Long black gloves, a hollow, cold stare from behind designer shades, swaths of silk, frosted pink lipstick...and that black beret. Style.

Album Watch: Maxwell Unveils Tracklisting For That Fourth Album We've Been Dying For

Feast your eyes on this:

1. Phoenix Rise
2. Playing Possum
3. Help Somebody
4. Fistful of Tears
5. Stop the World
6. Love You
7. Pretty Wings
8. Cold
9. Bad Habits

Yes. This is the tracklisting for Maxwell's upcoming (and long-awaited) fourth album, Black Summer's Night. Yes. You better soak this in, because this is real. A tad shorter than I expected (c'mon you haven't released an album in five years, is it too salty to ask for a three-disc opus?) but I'm just being picky. Still, the song title of "Playing Possum" amuses me, as it pertains to what Maxwell has been doing to his fans for five years.

Since I was also subsided by the flu this past week, I missed a hell of a lot. That's why it's great to have blog partners in crime, such as my girl Vivrant Thang over at Songs In The Key of Life, to keep me on my pink polished toes of monumental things such as this. According to Vivrant, he Tweeted the tracklisting over the weekend, as he is in the process of mastering the album. Well, color me ecstatic! Now that July 7th release date that has been floating around is turning out to be a real drop date! And to think I was doubting the man...

Little Boots Wanders Into A Silly Mess

What is high-end entertainment? Dancing homeless people! Erm...no. Electro-pop artist, Little Boots issues out a very bizarre video for single, "New In Town". In the spirit of the song, Ms. Boots is wandering around unfamiliar territory through an urban backdrop where she runs into ~seedy~ characters. Characters that you will view: a) homeless people dancing with shopping carts b) thugs throwing up jazz hands and c) synchronized *ahem* blow-job dance routine by some hipster kiddos. Sounds like appealing video gold right? Wrong. Thoroughly.disappointed. This looks so thrown together and well...bad. I think I'll stick to listening to the song (which is great) and pretend that this never happened...


Rather....I'll watch the mash-up of Footloose and the audio of "New In Town". Personally, Little Boots getting her Ren McCormick on would have been a much better concept. I can imagine her venturing into a small town where the bans on dancing are put in the hands of Jon Lithgow. Throw in a Kevin Bacon cameo and some cowboy boots, and voila! would've made a world of difference.

Hopping On 'The Getting Business Done' Train

As a college student, sometimes my education life invades into my blogging one...and since Finals are creeping up, it's that time of year again where professors feel the need to throw a zillion assignments and due dates at you to feed their grade books. So I will sadly be away from the blog for a few days...but don't fret, I will be back towards the tail of the end week, as I will do a write-up for the James Morrison concert that I'm attending this Thursday! So till then, keep the music pumping, and get excited for my review of James Morrison's show by viewing this video of one of my fave JM tracks, "You Give Me Something".

Take 5 Fridays: Pop, Six, Squish, Uh Uh, Cicero, Lipschitz

1. Celeb Stalking Following On Twitter: Who would've known that Jody Watley was so philosophical? Or that Kelly Rowland likes to type in ALL CAPS...Twitter has sadly become a pastime, but while I don't feel the need to post every five seconds of my life to my followers (take note, Estelle), it's kinda fun and it's a fly on the wall approach to finding out about your fave artists and what they are up to musically. Usually you might end up with a juicy scoop or two. Take for instance: Maxwell making his followers hearts beat irregularly by posting the release date for the long awaited project, Black Summer's Night...what a monumental day that was. My favorites follows? Tough call, but it's a four-way tie between ?uestlove from The Roots, Beverley Knight, Marsha Ambrosius,

and Chrisette Michele. They keep it fresh and make you feel like you are apart of their inner circle...or so we all like to secretly think. And if you want to add another ~celebrity~ to your mix...you can learn about the further adventures of the Audio Diva on Twitter as well *wink*

2. Exposure (Of The Freestyle Proposition): This week felt like ripping a Band-Aid off ever so painfully and slowly. It was pretty bad, from my hustling to fix two cakes for my Spanish presentation (don't ask) and ending the week gloriously with me taking a nasty spill on my apartment building's stairs (to those who care...I'm fine, just bruised, banged up, and hobbling along) So what's a way to make me feel instantly better. One word. Expose. The group, not the transitive verb. Expose has been a long time love and their 1987 debut, Exposure is what 80's dance is all about. I'm getting a kick out of this flashback performance of "Point Of No Return" at the legendary Apollo. The crowd is super energized and the hair that is flapping around on the Expose ladies could take over the planet. Mi goodness! What I like most about this is that they are dancing AND singing LIVE. No lip syncing. You can tell cause they get a bit off pitch, but still, this makes the girl groups and lip-synchers of now look like slackers. Get it girls!

3. When It's A Slow Music News Week....: ...You marvel at the dumbest things. I'm a little intrigued at Solonge Knowles "eye makeup" that she's been sportin'. I don't know what to make of it. If I wore it, I'd get clowned. It looks like a four year old trying on mommy's makeup, and then it looks like she's going for that Boy George look. Whatever the muse, it's gotten my attention and makes her 10X's more fun than Beyawnce "I'll Show You Crazy" Knowles.

4. Kylie Minogue "Trades Spaces": How did I miss the factoid that Kylie Minogue has her own bedding line now? It's been out for a year and how did I not know? Oh...I'm an American, that's why I'm supposed to be a Last-Minute Liz on this. Of course this fascinated me to no end, especially because I love "bed in bags", and other fine linens. But I'm also impressed that this collection actually not half bad. In fact, this is something I would design...for real. I'm digging the set called "Vintage"...and even the disco ball looking set, "Sequins" would come off as kiddy, but it actually looks quite lovely. But I dare not even look at the prices for these luxe lounging items...my wallet does not need to be offended anymore this year.

5. Get Down, Tha Boogie, Oogie, Oogie: I like this. Yes, I do, I dooohoo. Blog partner, My Mood Is Music, introduced me to this ram-bam astro soul n' funk trio known as Tha Boogie. The trio hail from California and were recently signed to Raphael Saddiq's label. So you know this is some good ish. It's kind of neat to see a two guys and a girl line up as well as the group labelling their music "Zouk". The video for single, "Hey Love" is a little on the "college budget" side, but I must admit, it looked better than the unoriginal trite stuff Keri Hilson's trying to pull on everyone. It's a little hipster, a little out of the box and entertaining. I'm going to file Tha Boogie in my "2009 Artist Watch" cabinet, and we'll see how they play out.

Web Salad: Mix Me All Up

A look-see at what is going on in other parts of the music blog-o-sphere

• Besides being preggy, Kelis is set to make music once again...along with getting her Paula Dean on. MuuMuse updates us on Ms. Bossy's whereabouts.
• Songs In The Key Of Life gives you the ticket of experience with videos and a recap of Chrisette Michele's on-point performance in DC.
• Get to know who Aussie soul quartet Lowrider are through Sexy Never Left.
• Beatlife gives us the low-down on MC Tiye Phoenix's solo venture, Half Woman, Half Amazin' .
• XO's Middle Eight has an 'obsession' with prog-pop dame, Marina and The Diamonds, and you know what, I do too!
• UK Raptress Ms. Dynamite resurfaces and does a smashing cover of Lauryn Hill's classic, "Doo Wop (That Thing)" and you can view the whole thing over at Pinboard, all the while wondering when both Ms. D and Lauryn Hill will be making a comeback.
• Soul enchantress Maiysha is the biz niz and Nu-Soul Mag has a cool video posted about her journey to the 2009 Grammys.

Anjulie Walks A Mighty Fine Line

Anjulie is making me nervous. Nervous in that she is walking a tight rope above a vast canyon in her new video for infectious single, "Boom". Luckily, she falls nicely (and safely) back to solid ground. The Toronto-born singer takes us through dream sequences of her in a mid-summer nights garden and sailing on the high seas in this visual treat. Sounds a little loopy? Well, that's the beauty of it! This is quite entertaining and definitely unlike what is being peddled as music videos today. I have been singing of praises for Anjulie for awhile and it's taking far too long for this girl to get further noticed! Here's hoping Anjulie "boom shalacka's" her way into music fiends hearts as the year progresses.

Spin Me Right Round: Revisting 'Born & Raised'

Joy Denalane's 2006 album, Born & Raised, just kind of plopped down into my lap back when it was released. Coming at me from nowhere, but hitting me from all sides. It swept me up into a more comforting place at the time, and it became one of those constant plays over the course of a couple of months. Each song captured seamlessly honest to goodness modern soul. Germany native, Denalane has a quiet force about her, and it shows in her vocals as she coats each and every song on here with sweetness yet there is a touch of grit sprinkled on top. Her voice echos the ghosts of classic soul as she dips into a Southern blues mindset for "Be Real For Me" or haunts on the moody "Heaven and Hell". Joy's writing is just as intricate as her vocals as her tribute piece to fellow soul queen, Mary J. Blige, "Seven Year Itch" cleverly weaves in classic MJB song titles into lyrics. The most compelling song resides in the chilling, "Stranger In This Land" which is heavy on the heart and mind. The song details the timeline of racial barriers from the time of slavery to the present, told through the eyes of different characters. It's quite an original piece and one that shouldn't be overlooked. The punchy, "Let Go" remains the album's focal point, as the hand-clapping gospel of "Start Over" uplifts. Born & Raised interweaves current R&B/Hip-Hop styles with the familiar tones 70's soul, and while it's nothing out of the ordinary of now, the delivery is fresh and Joy's buttery rich vocals drench the project in excellence. Bold statement? Well, Joy Denalane is a bold and honest sister, and she's someone who should be somewhere in your chest of musical nuggets.

Rating: 9.4/10

Song Stuck In My Head: Kim Wilde's Underappreciated R&B Jam

"Hey Mr. Heartache" -Kim Wilde (1988)

I will never understand why I love Kim Wilde's music so much. Maybe because the British poptress likes to genre hop (she's done everything from New Wave to New Jack) or maybe it's because she puts out catchy tunes that a 22-year-old sista with bizarre music taste likes to indulge in? Whatever the case, Kim Wilde is one of my favorites. So usually whenever I feel a little blue (as last week's personal dramas managed to boil over into this week), Miss Wilde's tuneage usually comes to my rescue. Loads of people like to bash with spiteful venom Kim's R&B turn with the single, "Hey Mr. Heartache". I don't get the hate because I find it to be a energetic slice of a dance jam. Sure the title is a little trite, but the song fits right in with what was grand about the New Jack movement back then. The song, which opens her 1988 Close album, features vocalist Junior ("Mama Used To Say") on backing vocals. With all these great elements going on, it really boggles my mind as to why this song didn't latch onto R&B radio back then. Oh, wells, people suck sometimes. Still this is a great little slick nugget of a dance number that continues to have me sing and dance along.

Lots of "serious acting" in this video...Kim has that pouting look patented...ah, throwing out the clothes in the closet, she should've gone all Waiting To Exhale style and torched his clothes too...this vid is missing a dance troupe of some sort

The Gospel: Just A Thought On The Classic Soul Revival

There are times where a "drop yo' booty to da floor" songs (aka the stuff they blast non-stop on your local Top 40 radio station), hits the spot...but sometimes, you might want something with a little more substance and something that won't drain out of your ears after one listen. This is where the good old steaming bowl of soul music oatmeal comes in to stick to your eardrums and make for a well-balanced musical diet. Currently, the music industry has latched on to this concept with the rise of neo-soul and indie funk artists as an "escape from the norm". Still there are a couple of artists whom have abandoned the modernized sounds of hip-hop laced R&B. These such artists have delved back into the days of classic soul and funk (1960's to early 1980's) as a means to recreate that nostalgic magic. Why I ask? I'd like to point a finger at the current wave of R&B music. R&B has been kind of a dying breed nowadays and the singers/groups who actually do it are sub-par at best. In R&B Land, the groups don't stick around for a second album, the males whine about "boos in the clubs", the female vocalists have paper thin voices that are engulfed in heavy produced beats and the rappers roam freely popping up on almost every track. R&B wasn't like it was even ten years ago when Boyz II Men, TLC and En Vogue were topping the charts. So where does that leave the artists who abandoned the mainstream ship? They went back to the roots of it all and resurrected what real soul is all about: Honesty. While this article brings up the factoid that the talented yet total basketcase, Amy Winehouse kick started the 60's Soul revival for the 21st century, I don't give sole credit to the Winehouse for bringing the funk back...because well funk/soul never left, it just needed the right performers to do it, and to do it well. We have seen it happen recently with the surge of UK Soul performers (James Morrison, Alice Russell, Bryn Christopher etc.) and with Raphael Saddiq and Erykah Badu making stellar progressive soul revival releases last year that were attention grabbers. Still all these performers and their music have brought back a sense of what what was experienced forty-something years ago and maybe it's just what the R&B market needs to keep it afloat.

Cover Smother: Me, Myself and a Bright Classic Cover

Happy Yellow! Flowers! Peace sign! Serious faces! Must be De La Soul's 1989 classic, 3 Feet High and Rising. This cover screams at you, yet its calming at the same time....unless that is just me.

First Impressions: Chrisette and Ne-Yo Fly High In The Friendly Soul Skies Together

Why is it that I like Ne-Yo when he collaborates with other artists, but when the guy is alone, he's the bane of my existence? While I ponder that, I'm tipping my hat off to his recent collaboration with the divine Miss Chrisette Michele. The track, "What You Do" is to be the second single off of her upcoming album, Epiphany, and it's pretty darn good. Chrisette and Ne-Yo make for excellent duet partners as they charm their way through a sweet romance soul stunner that is laced with elements of soft 80's synths and jazz scatting...yes, you read that correct. It clearly possesses what is best of the old school mixes it with modern neo-soul elements. Seriously feeling this joint and from the sound of things, Chrisette's sophomore project is really shaping up to be just as stellar as her 2006 debut, I Am. Epiphany hits shelves May 5th, and if you follow Chrisette on Twitter, you'll be reminded of this event every day you log on...followed by a stream of exclamation points.

Nina Sky Aren't On Some 'Bull'

I have been having a rocky relationship with hip-hop/dance-pop joints lately. Nothing this year has been swaying me to shake yee ole gluteus maximus. That was until these ears heard Nina Sky's "On Some Bull...". Tacky title. Serious dance jam. Yes, I like this. It's not overtly trying too hard, the chorus is mad catchy and a song that has me listening three times in a row, deserves some sort of praise. Nina Sky have been under the radar but are slowly creeping back again as their long-awaited second album, The Musical, is getting an October release. Frankly, I missed this sister duo and it was quite nice to see them giving the dance crowd some much need groove. Much better than that disappointing garbage the Black Eyed Peas are doing (sorry, but "Boom Boom Pow" = "Boom Boom Blows" IMO). The video is basically a typical dance-off party, nuttin' too special...but there is a guy in a pig suit dancing it up mid-vid to sweetend the viewing deal.

Web Salad: Toss N' Effect

A look-see at what's going on in other parts of the music blog-o-sphere

• Thanks to Pinboard, I have a brand new artist to worship...Meet Jade, a quirky n' cool soul, jazz and folk artist who's EP, It's My Heart Cookie, is fantabolous and ready for download over at the blog.
• Missing Teedra Moses? Songs In The Key Of Life has the goods on a recent concert with Lady Lioness as she churned out the classics and a new tune (!!).
• FourFour looks at the fabolous weirdness of Kate Bush...through a vast collection of mesmerizing .gifs. Babooshka!
• Where the hell is Alice Smith? Soul Bounce gets to the bottom of this.
• Nu-Soul Mag interviews the soulful Mr. Chester Gregory about his upcoming debut album, In Search of High Love.
• Burger King + Sponge Bob Square Pants + Sir-Mix-A-Lot's "Baby Got Back" = Kid friendly marketing? Idolator calls "foul".
• The British are coming! SoulUK serves up not one but two fabolous mixtapes of the best of British Soul, featuring the likes of Corrine Bailey Rae, Alice Russell, Loose Ends and Omar. Download and enjoy!
• Beatlife takes a look at the new works of hip-hop artists, Quite Nyce and Raydar Ellis with a video and download in tow.
• Meet new dance-pop sensation, Erika Jayne as she gets put in the hot seat by Pop Nation.

Song Stuck In My Head: Takin' Control One Bass Lick At A Time

"Take Control"- Amerie (2007)

With news that a new Amerie album will be surfacing this summer, I had to celebrate...and by celebrating it meant diving back into the realm of 2007's Because I Love It. What you should know about Amerie is that while she gets lumped into the bushel of leaves of the likes of Ashanti/Ciara et al, she's a bit...well, um...fiercer. Plus she seems to always think out of the box...just when you think it's a typical R&B joint in your midst, there is just a little something extra to make it different from the pack. Take for instance the just-won't-quit funk drive of, "Take Control". This song was groomed to be a monster...yet that monster seemed docile in it's cage. It had all the elements of a "hit single": tight production (courtesy of Cee-Lo and Mike Caren), eager vocal work by Amerie and blasting horns mixed with a tough as nails bass line. But alas the song didn't stick...even though it should've. As I wait patiently for Amerie to cook something new up in her kitchen of sass...this will have to do for now.

To me this is all over the place...but at least there is some sort of blended concept: Amerie shimmies and shakes in a glittery outfit but moonlights as an undercover agent...Lots of catwalk-esque strutting going on in this vid, somebody watched America's Next Top Model frequently...

Eye Rolls and Side Eyes: This Is America's Finest

You will cringe. You will laugh. You will wonder if Kylie Minogue is ripping her ears out as the American Idol clan butcher take on her classic, "Can't Get You Out Of My Head".....this is truly AWFUL. But like a drunk friend making a scene in public...you can't help but look at the beautiful mess this is, especially since this season of AI is bringing on the heartaches...from all the laughing. There is so much secondhand embarrassment from this, that it is literally radiating throughout my body. My side-eye especially went in high gear when the AI guys came strolling out with those out of tune "la la la's". View this mess and inform me as to why this is America's finest.

Freebie Adventures: Chester French Gets Mixed Up

The college mindset is this: Free is GOOD. So it's really no wonder that former Harvard students, Chester French are giving away a kick ass mixtape that is the perfect introduction to the duo. The boys even brought a few friends along for the ride...so who's riding shotgun? We have...Common, Janelle Monae, Solange, Pharrell Williams, Jermaine Dupri, Lady GaGa, Talib Kweli, Wale, Cassie, Diddy...and that's just a few. So if you're sold by the roster and if you want to climb aboard the CF bandwagon, by all means check this out.

DL: Chester French: Jacques Jams Vol. 1: Endurance

Spin Me Right Round: These Are The Contents Of My Head

If there is any album that is so appropriately titled, it is Annie Lennox's Diva. While it's not self-indulgent in the slightest, the "diva" mindset is clearly showcased on here with songs filled with, style, beauty and most importantly power. The ever classy Miss Lennox makes an album that speaks volumes long after you press the stop button, and trust me, you'll know after one listen. After having a successful run as 1/2 of new-wave soul duo, the Eurythmics for the better part of the 80's, Annie spread her wings and went solo in 1992. The product of that departure is the album that features a jaunt Annie dressed in showgirl garb, looking ever so "diva" like. A sophisticated set of tracks reside on this while Annie's peerless soulful wail penetrates and haunts all in one go. It's really an album that seems fresher by each play as each song is textured and structured so intricately, though the scenarios are simple, it seems that a lot of care went into crafting this. Most of the songs engulf you from the first listen, such as songs like the surging Gospel of "Cold" and the persistent pound of the electric, "Little Bird", which both make for a listen that is one of a kind. Hit single, "Why" remains the meat of the album, as it begins things off in a reflective tone, while "Walking On Broken Glass" livens things up with it's spunky instrumentation. Of course, the focal point of this album is Annie's vocals which resonate loud and clear. She simply makes singing sound so effortless, hence why she is one of the best vocalists that is around today. Her vocals clearly make the songs come alive. More so on gems like the brooding dank soul of "Legend In My Living Room" and the gravitational pull that "Money Can't Buy It" leads you into. In a way this album is too perfect, but it's something that I don't mind as every time this is spun, it always feels like I'm hearing something new for the first time. Diva is stylish, poised and poignant even after all these years.

Rating: 9.8/10

Striking, just striking...Influenced by Marlene Dietrich and wonderfully done...Annie just mesmerizes on this

Cover Smother: Boots N' 'Hands'

Getting Xanadu mixed with The Neverending Story vibes...

...still get excited for Little Boots' debut, the appropriately titled, Hands, coming out on June 8th.

Album Watch: Paolo Gives Us Some 'Candy'

2009 must be the year of the comeback (Leela James, Maxwell and "maybe/maybe not" D'Angelo...), as artists whom have been in hiding are coming out of their hibernation holes and releasing new tunes. One such artist is Scottish singer/guitarist, Paolo Nutini, who made a small splash with his 2006 album, These Streets, and the summery soul drawl of single, "Last Request". Paolo's been MIA for awhile, but he's making himself known again. Funny, because I was re-introduced to him recently by way of BFF Brittany, and at the time, we were both wondering where the heckle he went. Well, he's back, and sounding like he's optimistic (or hungry for eggs), as his new album is entitled Sunny Side Up, which is to be dropping in stores this June. The first single, "Candy" made an appearance a couple of weeks ago on the Net, and I was quite taken aback at how Paolo's voice has vastly changed since "Last Request" dropped. Lots of raw vocal power is being exuded here and he sounds like a seasoned rocker, not 21 years of age. Mind boggling. "Candy" is a little more folksy than the tracks from his debut effort, but it is welcoming nonetheless. If you haven't gotten on the Paolo Fan Express, by all means hop aboard and check out this new song. And while you're at it, also take a listen at a killer rendition of The Brothers Johnson's classic, "Strawberry Letter 23" that Paolo did at the Montreux Jazz Festival last year, which I have provided at the end of the cut. Oh, so sweet!

Become "Lost In Emotion" and Dance In The Street

Steppin' back into 1987 with Lisa Lisa and Cult Jam where they get "Lost In Emotion"...things to know about this vid:

• "Lost In Emotion" is from the group's second album, Spanish Fly. The song went #1 on the charts
• This video will make you jump, skip and sing out loud with glee...so I'm warning you!
• Street fairs are much more fun when everyone dances in pastel clothing
• Full Force makes an appearance in this vid...they are in the background lifting some weights
• Dig on Lisa Lisa's fierce earrings...where can I get those?
• You don't pick up guys at street fairs, doesn't matter if they buy you cotton candy or not, you just don't
• Is it just me or do a lot of 80's videos revolve around carnivals, street fairs or theme parks? Lionel Ritchie's "All Night Long", Chaka Khan's "Love Of A Lifetime" etc.
• Funny, this song is about Lisa Lisa liking a guy, but she's never with a guy in this vid. Talk about false advertisement!
• Lazy and Tasteless Observation: Lisa Lisa and Paula Abdul look sorta alike...erm
• This video is making me hungry for funnel cake

First Impressions: Teena Marie and Faith Evans Serve Up A Soul Treat

Teena Marie has residence in my heart always, so it's quite exciting to know that the soul singer is keep on keepin' as she'll be releasing a new album this summer. It's even more exciting that she has teamed up with another favorite of mines, R&B vocalist, Faith Evans to record a duet with. Excuse me for a sec, I just screamed out loud...The track, called "Can't Last A Day", is to be off of Teena's upcoming effort, Congo Square, that she's releasing on the legendary Stax Records label. The song follows in the vein of that classic 70's soul sound, with a mid-tempo piano rolling in the background and Teena and Faith vocals blending nicely. Naturally, I like this, though I was not at all jazzed with Teena vocals "display" at the beginning. Teena sounded strained and jilted in one go, but the song got better as it bounced along, and all was forgiven. Still, I'm glad to hear that Teena is sticking to the simmering soul this time 'round and not diving into hip-hop "mackin' mama" territory as she did on the 2004's embarrassing hit n'miss, La Dona. Not to mention, hearing Faith Evans on anything new is always a treat. All you Teena-junkies note that "Can't Last A Day" will be available on iTunes, April 7th and expect Congo Square to hit shelves, June 9th of this year.

Take 5 Friday: C'est La Vie...That's Just The Way It Goes

1. "Doin' Da Butt" To 80's One-Hit Wonders: One hit is better than none they say, and VH1 is celebrating that idea, as the network has been unfolding 100 greatest one-hit wonders from the 80's this week. Always a sucker for a good list and an excuse to revel in 80's tunes, this clearly was the highlight of my week (sad, I know). From E.U.'s "Da Butt" to Stacey Q's "Two Of Hearts" to Quarterflash's "Harden My Heart", this Audio Diva got her fix of one-hit wonderdom. Fave one-hit wonder you ask? Hmm...I'm gonna have to go with pop/R&B singer and guitarist, Robbie Nevil because: a) His debut album is amazing b) His second album is fab and 3) His third album is great.....truefax. In my mind this man had more than one hit...especially with "Dominoes" which is 10x's better than his big hit, 1986's "C'est La Vie", in my humble opinion. What's his stint now after the one-hit glow? He is currently responsible for penning songs for Disney's High School Musical francise and Hannah Montana. I refuse to believe.

2. Crimes Of T-Shirt Addiction: I have expressed my T-shirt love before...but it seems that I just can't stop going a little koo-koo for a vintage screen "conversation" tee, especially one with a artist or band splashed on the front. Shirts designed as such are easy to find (especially if you like The Beatles or Run DMC) but if you're looking for something a bit "original"...it takes a little Internet digging. I literally fell in love with this Pat Benatar shirt (see right) and I ordered it just this week...and I'm gathering up change to snatch up a Madonna one I found. It is addicting and expensive, so I do have a cheaper alternative waiting in the wings. That alternative is: to get BFF Lindsay to help me make a Prince Parade album cover T-shirt with an iron-on kit from Michael's Crafts. Will update on the progress.

3. Jilly From Philly Radiates In 'Detective Agency': To get my Oda Mae Brown on, I have a strong feeling that neo-soul queen, Jill Scott could get an Emmy or Golden Globe nod for her lead role as detective, Precious Ramotswe in HBO's new series, The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency. Why? Jill Scott made me forget that she's: Jill Scott, amazing neo-soul singer as her acting was genuine and effortless. Another plus is that the show is like a breath of fresh air as it has a plot, manages to stick to that plot and had characters you can instantly like...plus the scenarios are cute as hell. Since I'm stewing over Pushing Daisies's cancellation, this hit the spot for something with substance and style. So while everyone is still trying to make Beyonce's "acting" career happen, I think we should divert our attention to Jill, who clearly shines not only behind the mic, but on the TV screen as well.

4. Craig David Is Still Alive: According to this video...I was wondering what happened to ol' Craigy boy after he dropped singles, "Insomnia" and "Where's The Love" for his Greatest Hits package back in November of 2008. Craig David seemed to vanish again, even though he's supposed to be keeping up his promise for a new album. So I was elated to know that the brotha was still alive and kicking, as he recently was spotted sweating it up on stage in Manila, Philippines (of all places). Craig managed to squeeze out a lively performance of his first hit, "Fill Me In" during the set and remained sexy while doing so. Forgive the audio and video as I have no doubt this was filmed on a cell phone/digital camera...

5. 'My Adidas' Are Going To Put To Good Use This Weekend: Speaking of Run DMC...we must remember that they are getting inducted in the Rock N' Roll Hall of Fame this weekend (apparently by Eminem...yawn). So you know what that means? It's time to pay homage to the boys from Hollis by watching video after video on YouTube and renting a copy of Krush Groove. Yay! Oh, and it's essential to play "Walk This Way" over and over till even you feel the need to scream like Steven Tyler. Things that we do in the name of music...Here is Run DMC on the children's show Reading Rainbow, back when rappers used to promote things like, reading and staying in school...instead of "lollipops" and "shorties getting low". Time has certainly flown by...Tune into Fuse on Saturday to check out the induction ceremony.

Web Salad: Gotta Stir It Up, Shake It Down

A look-see at what's going on around other parts of the music blog-o-sphere!

• While we wait patiently for New Amerykah 2: Return Of Ankh, Erykah Badu is getting her art on with LA-based visual artist, Steven Lopez...catch all the cool scoop over at Beatlife.
• Songs In The Key of Life gives you the goods on a recent Julie Dexter and Heston concert
• Sick of "I Love College"? Hop on over to Pinboard to check out a new Asher Roth track called, "Family Man"
• Soul Bounce breaks down Mos Def's political opinions and his appearance on Real Time With Bill Maher
• Songbird, Choklate has a chit-chat with Nu-Soul Mag about her upcoming album, To Whom It May Concern, and other funky things

Riddle Me List: Let Your Protege Glow...10 Best Prince Proteges

If I could be Prince protege...I would so do it. I'd grab my drum sticks, wear fishnets (big legs, showing through those holes...), do 'The Bird' and scream with passion...and let Prince do all the work. Well, to an extent. We all know the guitar slayer is famous not only for his own classic tuneage but for possibly producing the most proteges of anyone (Eat it Diddy!). The 80's was the prime hatching ground for these side acts hence why they occupy the bulk of this list. With that said, in no way shape or form does this list discount the musical talents of Carmen Electra...or maybe it does, since the only good thing that came out her relationship with Prince was her namesake. So without further introduction, these are the best of the best when it comes to the Paisley Park Proteges.

1. Sheila E.

Call it wishful thinking, but I have a goal in life to have teased hair and play the drums like Miss Sheila E. Possibly because there hasn't been a female drummer quite as captivating as her, and also because her frosted n' teased hair 'do is what 80's dreams are made of. After being a session player for jazz-fusion artist, George Duke, Sheila Escovedo joined Prince's camp, and became known as simply, Sheila E. She scored with the hit single, "The Glamorous Life" and to this day, it remains her signature tune. A few more hits ("A Love Bizarre", "Hold Me" and "Sex Cymbal"), film appearances and a stint as a part of Prince's touring band followed in the 80's and early 90's. Every once in awhile, Sheila will pop up on our radar, as she recently she won CMT's Gone Country competition...it really is a glam life after all.

2. Morris Day & The Time

What time is it?!? Time for...well, The Time, Prince's first official protege band. The Time were somewhat of an experiment at the beginning of their existence, but morphed into being one of sophisticated funk's finest. On the group's 1981 self-titled debut, the assembled band was clearly just for show as Prince recorded, performed and wrote all of the songs, with the charismatic charmer, Morris Day being the only member to contribute on the record with his vocals. That soon changed once the band members were actually allowed to play. Tensions frequently rose between the band members and Prince himself, so it was no wonder that by the time the band released their third (and final) album, Ice Cream Castles in 1984, the band was almost a completely different line-up. Amidst all ego drama, some classic funk joints emerged such as, "Cool", "Gigolos Get Lonely Too", "The Walk" and the always timeless, "Jungle Love." Ooh wee ohh.

3. Wendy & Lisa

Wendy Melvoin and Lisa Coleman are the funkiest white chicks you'll probably ever meet. Don't believe me? Follow this back story...Best friends, guitarist, Wendy and pianist, Lisa, were apart of The Revolution during their hey-day in the mid-80's, and were the masterminds behind a bulk of tracks during that period. After The Revolution disbanded, the two ladies forged on as a duo and crafted a sophisticated and funky debut album in 1987. The album wasn't a huge success but to my ears, it's one of the best protege offerings, as it blends together funk, soul, rock and jazz wonderfully. Wendy and Lisa would produce a couple of small hits such as the raging, "Waterfall" and classy, "Honeymoon Express" but the hits have sadly dried up. Nowadays, the duo have become more famous for producing other acts (Seal, Gwen Stefani and Rob Thomas) and composing scores for movies and TV shows such as Crossing Jordan and Heroes.

4. Taja Sevelle

Writing your own material pays off, just ask Miss Sevelle. The Minneapolis native caught the ear of Prince in 1987 with her saccharine soul number, "Love Is Contagious" and wound up being signed to his label and with a hit track on her hands. Whether you loved it or hated it, the song was definitely "contagious". But Taja's solo career wasn't so as she had mediocre success with her 1987 self-titled debut and her 1991 follow-up, Fountains Free. It is my belief that Taja was prematurely written off, as the woman could indeed sang her buns off and had some great tunes to boot (see "How Could You Do Me So Bad" and "Fountains Free"). While Taja has been out of game for awhile, she has been busy with an urban farming program...and oh, yeah, was one of the founders of The Matrix record label, who was responsible for handling the likes of *NSYNC, Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera in the beginning of their careers. And who says there's not life after the glow?

5. Jesse Johnson

Sure this former The Time member looked like Prince's doppelganger clad in a manly pink suit and heeled boots, but looks are deceiving. Jesse is best known for being quite a guitar player and producer. After his stint with The Time, Jesse wrote and produced material for the likes of Janet Jackson, Cheryl Lynn and Paula Abdul as well as had hits of his own. In 1985, Jesse released his debut, Jesse Johnson's Revue and scored hits with, "Be Your Man" and "I Want Your Girl" which are nice slices of 80's R&B/Funk. Jesse also contributed to a handful of 80's soundtracks such as The Breakfast Club, Another 48 Hours and Pretty In Pink...and if he wasn't busy enough, he even manged to squeeze in time to do a duet with legendary funk artist, Sly Stone in the mid-80's.

*Can't get enough proteges? See the rest of the list after the cut...*

6. Sue Ann Carwell

In technical terms, Sue Ann Carwell was one of Prince's first proteges as she was featured as lead vocalist for one of the early line-ups of The Time. For some reason she was dropped from the roster and Prince never got around to producing her debut album. Of all people, producer Giorgio Moroder managed to produce her 1981 debut, which ultimately fell off the face off the Earth. Former The Time member (and # 5 on this list), Jesse Johnson scooped up Sue Ann to produce a majority of her stellar sophomore effort, 1988's Blue Velvet. The album is quite an obscure find, but once found it's like finding buried treasure as Sue Ann's vibrant and stellar vocals are the focal point. It's seriously worth scoping out for her re-working of Aretha Franklin's "Rock Steady"...which can stand toe to toe with the original. Kid you not.

7. Jill Jones

Like Taja Sevelle and Sue Ann, Jill Jones was another vocal powerhouse in Prince's camp as she did hold her own as back-up singer for the Queen Of Ivory Soul herself, Teena Marie. In the early 80's, Jill was most known as the "The Lady Cab Driver" and was featured in early Prince videos and in the film, Purple Rain. She stopped posing and became useful in 1987 when her self-titled debut album dropped. The album featured the insanely epic romp, "Mia Bocca" which was a great blend of Prince's experiment between orchestra and funk, something he had been tinkering with on The Family project. Jill didn't recapture the magic of "Mia Bocca" and sadly, managed to be one of the proteges that didn't get a fabulous second chance.

8. The Family

While The Family can be deemed as a loose hodge podge of old Time members and Wendy Melvoin's twin sister, Susannah Melvoin, the band had three things going for them. One was the funkalicious tune, "Screams Of Passion" which was the group's big (and only) hit. The second was they were the first to record the epic, "Nothing Compares 2 U" (made popular by Sinead O'Connor in 1989). The third thing they had going for them was that their one and only album saw Prince in a experimental production mode where he started blending funk chords with string backdrops. The concept was quite impressive and gave The Family album a more classical edge, but unfortunately their shelf-life didn't last long, and the band broke up before they even began.

9. Vanity 6/Apollonia 6

The Pussycat Dolls wish they could measure up to the trashy brilliance that was Vanity 6 and Apollonia 6 (respectively). With lace corsets adorned, these trio of gals managed to rev up little teenaged boys fantasies back in the early 80's with their sexually potent pop n' funk tunes and seductive stares. Vanity 6's classic romp, "Nasty Girl" is truly an anthem for all the girls who christen themselves "naughty". While the tunes were more about style than substance, the fun didn't last for long as Vanity 6's lead vocalist, Denise Matthews bailed and Apollonia Kotero filled the void. Even though these two groups both had a short existence at one album apiece, without their promiscuous style, some girl groups of now would cease to exist. All this influence from a girl group who were originally supposed to be called The Hookers...keep it classy Prince.

10. Ta Mara and The Seen

Don't recognize the name? Well, blink in 1985 and you might have missed this group. Margaret Cox (aka Ta Mara) and her four piece band made a dent in the 80's pop-dance world with their hits, "Everybody Dance" and "Affection". While the group was mainly guided by the production force of Jesse Johnson, their group's second album, 1988's Blueberry Gossip failed to grab any attention for the group to stick around any longer.

Honorable Mentions:

*Andre Cymone: Anyone who produces Jody Watley is clearly not a protege, but an entity of their own. Andre Cymone is mostly known for giving Jody Watley a New Jack/Pop makeover when she embarked on a solo career in the 80's (not to mention he was also her husband for a time), but he had humble beginnings in Prince-ville. Andre was a childhood friend of Prince's and was a bassist for an early version of The Revolution. Andre left the band and embarked on a solo career, releasing three new wave-pop albums and gaining a hit with a Prince-penned track called, "Dance Electric". Andre fared better when he produced for the likes of Watley, Tiffany, Lalah Hathaway, Jermaine Stewart, Pebbles and Adam Ant.

*Sheena Easton: Sheena Easton had a great career as little Miss Wholesome in the early 80's as tracks like "Morning Train" and "You Could've Been With Me" are golden pop nuggets. It wasn't until Prince got ahold of her and penned the filthy "Sugar Walls" is when Sheena got a little salty and it was a brilliant makeover for the Irish pop star. Sheena continued to work with Prince throughout the remainder of the 80's as she was a guest vocalist on Prince's 1987 hit, "U Got The Look" and covered a handful of Prince written material on various albums.

Happy Birthday My Dear Mr. Gaye

Today would've marked the 70th birthday of one of soul music's most beloved voices, Mr. Marvin Gaye. While the singer was tragically killed by the hand of his own father 25 years ago, the spirit of Mr. Gaye's legacy and his music lives on. Hokey as that sounds, it is true, because whenever you hear a Marvin Gaye track playing over a loudspeaker or on the radio, don't you pause and take note? I know I sure do, and I have been engaged with the man and his voice ever since I was a barrette n' pigtails wearing child. As someone who claims to have an old soul, Marvin Gaye has always been one of my all-time favorite artists and alot of the male vocalists of now, have a hard time measuring up to my "Marvin quota". It all began when I used to invade my Dad's vinyl collection, from there I became fixated by the sounds that seeped out of Marvin's 1971 opus, What's Going On. While Marvin has a bevy of work that is essential listening, this album effected me, and it was one of the first albums that entranced me to no end. How each track blended into one, how a simple song about the environment ("Mercy Mercy Me") manages to haunt your soul, oh, and the instrumentation...bliss. Even as young as I was, it was obvious to me that this was music that I could grow up with, that one day this would speak to me, lyrically. Now in my early twenties, this record continues to amaze me and in fact, I have grown with this record, and even today I feel this album is poignant in its political and social messages. The album is what it is: timeless. While this post cannot do justice to Mr. Gaye or even his music, this is just the Audio Diva being real (as usual). So I'll leave it to Teena Marie, whom I think said it best on her tribute track from 1984, the moving, "My Dear Mr. Gaye". The song incorporates the classic sound that Marvin crafted so well and it's just so appropriate at the present. So take the time today, to spin a little Marvin on the ol' iPod/CD player/tape deck to celebrate Mr. Gaye and his music. Now take it away Teena...and once again, Happy Birthday Marvin Gaye.

Song Stuck In My Head: Why Can't Men Be Like 'Endicott'?

"Endicott"-Kid Creole and The Coconuts (1985)

This week has been filled with nostalgia for me as for the past four days, I have barely listened to anything that resembles a 2008/2009 synth crackle or hip-hop beat. It's almost cleansing in a way...Something that is just pure clean fun is Kid Creole and The Coconuts's 1985 track, "Endicott" from their album, In Praise Of Older Women and Other Crimes. As you might know, I do get a kick out of Kid and Co.'s Caribbean-island-funk escapades, as they are they are just unscrupulous fun. Aside from the rousing horns and the punchy rhythm, the song has some great catchy word play, as we are introduced to "Endicott", who is the epitome of a great man...who "pays his bills on time", who is "not the cheating kind" and who "makes love hard and long". Whoever this "Endicott" is, I need to meet him...that's the kind of guy a sista like me needs. Ha!

Kid and his Coconuts (the trio of identical looking gals) performing during a 1985 tour...the whole performance is like a luau...This is making me want a sailor's cap real bad...TAMBOURINES!

Artist Watch: Such A Teaser...

I imagine Maxwell sitting at his computer with a devilishly handsome smirk on his face as he dangles this bone in front of all his starving fans. What you see before you is a screen cap for the soul soldier's new video for single, "Pretty Wings" (you know that song that has been on his MySpace page for what seems like years...). The photos popped up on Maxwell's MySpace blog today with some cryptic commentary as to what the video is all about. Maxwell only confesses that the director of the video is Philip Andelman, whom was responsible for Beyonce's "Halo" vid awhile back. At least from these pictures we know that there is some sort of progress with that Black Summers' Night project...here's hoping that this video will get released this year, and not sometime in 2010. Crossing fingers.