First Impressions: Madonna Brings Back That Blonde Ambition

While its a silly dream to have Madonna be the mesh top, lace gloved and Boy Toy belt wearing minx from her 80's hey-day, it still is important to know that Miss Madge hasn't lost her spunk from those day-glo days. Making its debut today is "Celebration", the lead-off single to pump promo for Madonna's upcoming 2 disc greatest hits collection of the same name...and boy, does it deliver. The Paul Oakenfold produced track, is everything you want in a sizzling club stunner. You know the ingredients...urgent synths, an infectious easy-to-remember chorus and a danceable throbbing beat...the good stuff. While most are recalling Madonna's classic 1983 debut with this number, I'm more akin to thinking this track embodies the best of Madonna in her dance element from ALL of her 20+ career rolled into one . Seriously, its as if "Holiday", "Deeper and Deeper" and "Hung Up" mated. Believe it or not but this is the type of track Madonna fans have been waiting for, especially after the sticky and sour reception from Hard Candy last year. All hail her Madgesty!

Celebration

The Audio Diva Interview: Laura Izibor

Recently, I, the Audio Diva chatted with the lovely Miss Laura Izibor. The Irish soul stunner has graced this blog before, as I reviewed her stellar debut, Let The Truth Be Told, back in May. I, of course, took no mercy that she is a bonafide singing star and I asked her the ultimate tough questions. You know, mostly chatting about her debut, her musical influences, why Shia Labeouf is awesome and what she misses about being away from home. She of course was happy to answer my "tough" questions. Behold the very first Audio Diva interview with the classy, humble and immensely soulful, Miss Laura Izibor.

First Impressions: Robin Gets A Lil' Dirty

Yes, this picture is appropriate as Robin Thicke is getting his hands a bit dirty in this brand new track that has just surfaced. There have been whispers of the Thicke being a busy bee in the studio for the follow-up to his divine third album, Something Else. Now there seems to be something to show from all the mumblings. "Dirty It Up" is apparently a new track from the upcoming effort and its to showcase Robin's nasty/naughty side. Ow! Well, bring it on, baby! The Scott Storch produced track is a punchy electro-funk jam that delivers the sex-isms that will get you hot under the collar (and other things... :-/ ). Can't deny its infectious groove and cheeky attitude, and this is actually a good sound for Robin. Hopefully, this will be a cut on the new album, as I could see this getting some sort of airplay. But who am I kidding? Robin Thicke could sing the nutrition facts on those South Beach granola bars that taste like UHaul boxes, and I'd be thoroughly engaged.


Dirty It Up

Remember The Time: Rock Me With That Tender Dance

Ooo...Shall we ease into the week with some Babyface and Tamia? I have such fierce love for Quincy Jones's collaborative efforts where he invited a slew of famous voices/personalities to be on one solitary record. While Jones's The Dude and Back on The Block get more recognition, the eclectic artists on 1994's Q's Jook Joint were much more impressive to me. The lone single, "Slow Jams" dripped with Babyface production appeal, and while the album version features 'Face and the ladies of SWV sharing in romancin' fare, the video features a fresh-faced Tamia looking mighty Velma Kelly in a crisp bob. In fact, Q's Jook Joint was the Canadian songbird's recording debut, as she sung on the album a thundering rendition of Mica Paris's "You Put A Move On My Heart". Leaning on 1940's suaveness and glamorous, 'Face and Tamia take us into duetting bliss. Whew...some hot stuff...maybe even too hot for your Monday morning. Hmm?

Song Stuck In My Head: Debbie Tré Chic

"Backfired"-Debbie Harry (1981)

It wasn't like I didn't know about Debbie Harry's solo career, it's just that I was snobbish and just wanted to associate her with Blondie, 'tis all. Yet out of curiosity, and possible boredom of the past weekend I decided to seek out Debbie's 1981 debut album, Koo Koo. Since the record was produced by Chic masterminds, Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards, it had to be pretty decent. Well, the verdict is out and Koo Koo is in fact, pretty decent, especially since it is a pure blend of what was good about Blondie's Autoamerican and Chic's famous dance offerings. The album's first single, "Backfired" stood out to me right from the get-go. The song opens to skittish guitars that segue into the peppering of horns and Debbie's snarky snarl about a guy who just doesn't impress her much. Actually, the Chic-styled arrangement fits rather well with Debbie and its kind of a shame the sound shift didn't take off for Debbie, but I'm figuring its because people kept associating her with Blondie's thrashing rock sound that they couldn't latch onto this. Well, like those people, I was missing some hella funky stuff.

Audio Vision: Don't 'Forget' About The Noisettes

You can't say The Noisettes aren't barrel loads of fun. Especially after you see this. The trio did a performance of the newest single, "Never Forget You" on British station, ITV over the weekend, and boy, do they sparkle...and I'm not talking about lead vocalist, Shingai Shoniwa's body glitter. In bare feet, Shoniwa prances and sings nicely along to this delightful 60's soul throwback that has been getting some considerable play from me. The Noisettes sophomore effort, Wild Young Hearts will be making its way onto American shores come September 22nd, and hopefully their fun and vibrant sound will latch onto here. *sigh* Waiting till September proves to be painful indeed...

Take 5 Friday: More Cover Arts That I Truly Adore

To end the Cover Smother Week...5 more covers that I enjoy:

1. Prince - Parade (1986)Only Prince could hold his hands to his face and make it an art form

2. Eurythmics - Savage (1987)Annie Lennox's expressive eyes...they just follow you don't they?

3. The Velvet Underground - The Velvet Underground and Nico (1967)You can actually peel the banana on the real vinyl....genius.

4. Grace Jones - Nightclubbing (1981)
The definition of fierce...

5. Little Richard-Here's Little Richard (1957)See the beads of sweat? That's a real artist folks.

Quote Me Baby!: Whitney Houston Is Not Impressed With Your Skin Showage

"I'm tired of people taking off their clothes."

– Whitney Houston on the music stars of today (as she was quoted at her listening party for her upcoming comeback album, I Look To You)

But its summer Nippy, folks get hot....just kiddings

Audio Vision: I Just Exploded Into A Zillion Pieces

Ledisi and Raphael Saddiq. Together. In the studio. Making music. Uh...I think I just exploded into a zillion little pieces from the excitement. Yes, soul troopers, the divine Miss Ledisi and the suave Mr. Saddiq are joining forces on Ledisi's upcoming, Turn Me Loose. On Ledisi's YouTube page, the soul singer posted a video that gives us an inside look at what the duo are concoting in the studio, as well, as give us a sneak peek into the makings of Turn Me Loose, and what we are to be expecting from the release. From the sound of things, Ledisi is bringing some surefire heat, and in the near future, our ears will be exposed to some funky good things. So while I pick up the little pieces of myself, check out the viewage and mark your calendars as Turn Me Loose drops in stores August 18th.

Class Act [Cover Smother Week]

Confession: I adore Patti Austin's music. And I adore this album. It's not as refined as some of her jazz recordings as its during the time where Quincy Jones tried to make her compete with the Madonna's of the world. Still I adore this even though its saturated in synths and drenched in drum machine acid wash of the 80's, and totally not Patti Austin. Aside from that, Patti's 1984 self-titled album is just as classy as the cover itself...that hat is fierce beyond belief.

First Impressions: Maxwell's Mid-Summer Night's Dream

Patience is a virtue, or so it is said. Possibly those words of wisdom were created to ease the anguish of music listeners whom were silently coping with the eight year absence of one of Neo-Soul's finest craftsman...or maybe this is just pure exaggeration. Still one thing is for certain, when Maxwell is away, he makes it worth the wait. Thus patience proves to be virtuous.
Maxwell's announcement about his return to music was akin to the "shot heard 'round the world" back in 1775 when a revolution for independence began. It crackled, sparked and took many off guard that the neo-soul pioneer was back to business. Back to making women swoon, back to making men becoming romantic marshmallows and back to being one of this generation's musical sojourners. Blacksummers'night is physically what fans have been waiting in total vain for. For the Brooklyn native to be in his soulful zen and continuing to merge in the new class with the old. As Maxwell's 1996 debut opus Maxwell's Urban Hang Suite, is possibly his finest hour, BSN is another stellar accomplishment in his cannon of work. Maxwell paints his canvas, and paints it with broad strokes of bold jazz instrumentation, splatters of organic soulful quality and smears it with sweet harmonies to make for quite the engaging portrait. The adventure begins with the angelic voice of Maxwell as he gives us a come-hither introduction to what the sizzling, "Bad Habits" is all about. The funk bucket of "Cold" is nothing to be frigid about as it wiggles along while "Help Somebody" surges with urgency and boldness. And to think that that's just the first half. It's pretty evident from jump street that Maxwell has been slaying over this project to get it just so. You can hear that commitment in such compositions such as the decadent "Fistful Of Tears" and even in his comeback single, "Pretty Wings". To close the set is the fusion-funk of "Phoenix Rising", a title that is wondrously poignant in association to Maxwell's rise back from a seven year absence. Oh, yeah folks, Maxwell has risen from those ashes and is back, and rightfully so.

Rating: 9.9/10 (A perfect 10 would just be snotty)
Release Date: July 7, 2009

Madonna Gives Face Value [Cover Smother Week]

Getting a massive Andy Warhol vibe on this...Behold the cover of Madonna's upcoming greatest hits package, Celebration, which will be appearing towards year's end. While I applaud that this has a certain 80's lean to it (that screamin' sky-blue eyeshadow!!), I was hoping they would do a collage of all of Madonna's album covers or various pictures of her through the years...but I guess that would of been yawn-worthy.

The Gospel: Why Do Musicians Get Mad At The Messenger?

<---Teena Marie isn't having this, and neither am I. The facts were these....On Monday, R&B crooner, Ne-Yo scrunched up his face and got mad over some comments made by bloggers about his very emotional upset on stage in the UK this past weekend. The soul man got so mad that he went to his blog and addressed the situation to fans, as well as, give some directed hate to the one group of people who are ruining his life. Those big bad meanies called Bloggers. His crunchy phrase of choice cracks like a whip: To all bloggers...go to hell.

Ouch!

While I can understand that Ne-Yo is butt hurt over his public display of crying (and the whole episode of it being plastered on YouTube for the world to see), my main disgruntlement is that musicians have been blaming bloggers/critics for being arseholes with writing skills, when we are merely playing the town messenger. We didn't ask you to cry on stage Ne-Yo, you did that on your own accord, and since you are a public figure, you are an easy target for a blog post...just saying.
While I know I'm not on my way to vacation at the Hades Hot Spot this summer, still, sometimes it pains me when I read harsh words like this. Yes, I know Ne-Yo didn't direct it towards me, because obviously, to my knowledge, he doesn't know my blog or little 'ole me. But as someone who takes this music blogging thing seriously (as I am hoping to have a life-long career as a writer), this accusation is a slap to me and all of those who toil every single day on their blogs to inform and entertain their readers.

For those who aren't aware, the people who dabble on the keys or write with a pen are often to blame for everything. We tell the dirty, tough stuff, we say the stuff that no one wants to say, we have to listen to bitchin' and moans of commentors on what we're doing wrong, we have to decide what is newsworthy and what to pass on,...in short, it's rough out in the jungle of linguistics and the interwebs as we sometimes get abused for just expressing out opinions. Not to play a smallest little violin in the world, because in honesty, I do enjoy what I do and I'm aware that the negative comes heavily in this field. Still sometimes I wish musicians/celebrities, like Ne-Yo, who blast the electronic word (and believe me he's not the first to do so), take a step back and realize that there are some bloggers who intelligently express their sane opinions and who aren't out to be the biggest jerk in the room. True, bloggers may get snarky, snobby and catty, (cause I know I do on this blog at times), but seriously, if I was a docile "I love everyone and everything" type of writer, I'd be bias, fake and doing a disjustice to myself and my readers.

To get personal, I'm a two-bit music blogger. I don't get paid for my posts, I don't own this domain, and I do this blog to share good music, to improve my writing skills, have fun, and meet others who share in my musical forte. Even though I'm a little blip in the blog world, I still have the same mission as every single writer/blogger out there: Inform readers, engage in healthy and intelligent banter with readers and to engage in the joy of writing and sharing. Simply put.
So to wrap up, on the music blogging front, bloggers and musicians need to kiss and make-up, because we need each other...they provide us with the content and they need the publicity. See, a win-win situation for all. So Ne-Yo dry those eyes, and understand that you shouldn't sob over the hand that is feeding you.

Free To Be Me [Cover Smother Week]

Yes, that is Baby Spice. Yes, this looks very Nancy Sinatra. But believe it or not, this album, is quite good...in a 60's James Bond nostalgia cheesy pop kind of fashion. In my slushiest of days, Emma Bunton's 2005 album Free Me, always hits the spot.

Crisp N' Fresh: It's Gonna Be A Beautiful Knight

A two-for-one special being served up today, as UK's Soul Queen, Beverley Knight releases a new single AND video off of her upcoming 100% album. For those who need a refresher, 100% is Miss Knight's fifth album that will be featuring such big producing names as Guy Chambers and Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis...not to mention a guest appearance from THE Chaka Khan. New track, "Beautiful Night" is a lovely little mid-tempo with strong vocal chops from Beverley gracing its sleek pop/R&B exterior. The video is a simple yet effective affair, which is derived mainly for the purpose to focus on the song rather than the visual itself. Yet, seeing Beverley gets her "dirty dancing" on with her male dance partner is quite priceless. But I think what I love the most about this vid is Beverley's haircut, as it oddly looks a little like mines....so Bev be straight with me, is Jake from Regis Hairstyles your stylist too? 100% drops in stores September 14, 2009.

First Impressions: Monica Is Letting Us Know About Her Return

Bouncing around for a couple of years is the idea of Monica's follow-up to 2006's lackluster, The Makings Of Me. I say this because, the album, Still Standing has been in the works for some long hot minutes, as we first heard about Monica's surefire comeback in 2007...yes, it's been that long. Some scattered leaks and a Keyshia Cole duet later, the now "confirmed" first single from the project, the Jazmine Sullivan penned, "Let Me Know" has gotten a web appearance, and well...it's got some good stuff going on with its 70's string/horn samples and Monica's honeydew vocals. But collectively, this song sounds a little messy, and it needs some tidying up. The first spot to clean is with guest star, Missy Elliott and her whoops and hollers. Back in, say, 2001, Miss E would've made some addicting rhymes and shouts, but now she is quite unnecessary in this song, and personally, if she was omitted, the song would gain some momentum as she lags the song down even more. Then the next bit of brushing up is the arrangement...Monica's glorious golden voice is there, but its kind of all over the place searching for a chorus to latch onto. Not her fault...its the song as its structure wobbles on shaky arrangement. Maybe this is just a morsel of what to expect (as from what I've heard this is an unfinished version)...still if this is the real deal that will be getting a proper release, sad to say but this song could have been a stunner....

Let Me Know (ft. Missy Elliott)

The Electric Theory [Cover Smother Week]

Another perfect album/perfect cover situation. A Tribe Called Quest made an album in 1991, that if released today, it would still sound like it was recorded a couple of months ago, that just how fresh, The Low End Theory is. Jazz and rap collide rather sublimely on this.

The Scramble: Wednesday Whoop Ass

*Songbook: By now, you've probably seen the tracklisting for Whitney Houston's I Look To You...and you're wondering why that pesky Akon track is residing there...

*Baby Boom: Kelis and Nas didn't make a scheduled court date...they had a good excuse though, as Kelis went into labor. Story developing...

*Texas O, Texas: Kelly Clarkson is going on tour this fall, and she's sticking to her Texas roots by kicking her heels up as she rolls into Beaumont and Lubbock (???)...even my Texas arse is wondering why those places?

*Actual Music on Music Channels: Good MC news...Mariah Carey will be doing VH1's Storytellers...maybe she'll find her voice then.

*Push-Back: Bad MCnews....Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel has been pushed back to September 15. Hope they reconsider the album title and cover art as they rearrange tracks for the next month...

*Twitter DJ: Maybe I should follow Boy George on Twitter...in 140 characters he dishes out clips from the likes of Ann Peebles, Louis Armstrong, Kim Wilde and Imagination!

*Don't Freak Out: Janet Jackson fans are going to need some sedatives today...Mama JanJan will not be performing at the MJ tribute concert scheduled for August 29th.

Drama, Drama [Cover Smother Week]

Perfect album. Perfect cover. ABC's 1983 classic, The Lexicon of Love. There are some funky good things going on within the black wax. Take for instance, "The Look Of Love" and "Poison Arrow", which are quite colossal. With this album, the New Romantic movement got more complex and divine.

News Bites: VH1 Hands The Diva Crown To A Bizarre Foursome

Going to make this short....guess who is headlining the Divas Live set this year? How about Adele, Leona Lewis, Kelly Clarkson and...Miley Cyrus. *crickets* Yep, those four names have been tapped to headline the upcoming Divas Live revival on VH1 this September. While it seems quite obvious to have Grammy winner, Adele belt on stage, and considering Kelly Clarkson and Leona Lewis's reality Cinderella stories they were shoe-ins. But Miley Cyrus?? Did VH1 not listen to a word I said about Jennifer Hudson, Christina Aguilera and Jill Scott? Even quite shocked that Beyonce wasn't a headline choice, cause you know her yak hair swinging rump would've shaked her money maker faster than a blender at Smoothie King. Or are we just scraping the barrel for divas these days? Or is there some sort of other conspiracy at hand...ponder.

Larger Than Life [Cover Smother Week]

The immortal "Move On Up" is on this...you know the song that Kanye West raped sampled for "Touch The Sky"...and when you hear the chugging percussion and the flourishing brass of this Curtis Mayfield classic, you can't help but feel on top of the world. Just like Mr. Mayfield looks like on his 1970 debut album, Curtis. Such a seminal album in soul history.

First Impressions: Teedra Moses Rocks Steady

Teedra Moses keeps on dangling that delicious carrot knowing full well that we (her collective fanbase) are some hungry bunnies...hungry for anything new that she manages to spin out. On the Young Lioness' Twitter, her team gave the heads up on a new track entitled, "Everybody Rock!" which is possibly the first single from the long-awaited, The Young Lioness project. From the title, it already sounded like a winner, so of course this Audio Diva's curious cat instincts came into play. The track begins as a hypnotic slow burn into a quick-paced lush electro-funk dance jam. It's actually quite catchy and feels like a sleeker "Caution", one of the finer tracks from Teedra's 2004 debut tour-de-force. While this is only a sneak peek as to what is in store, its comforting to know that there is a bigger chance that we will be seeing the follow-up to Complex Simplicity in the near future.

Everybody Rock!

Hysterical Blindness [Cover Smother Week]

O, Laurie Anderson, how avant-garde and "totally out of the box" you are...yet you have one of the most oddly engaging album covers around. Performance artist Anderson gained a hit in 1981 with the single, "O, Superman" and her debut album, Big Science followed in 1982. Anderson is also best known for inventing a tape violin and something called a "talking stick". Cool science, indeed!

The Scramble: Tuesday Tag...You're It

*Cue Card Reading Award Winner: By now, you've probably seen the Chris Brown apology tape...and you've probably already gave a hefty laugh at that Denise Huxtable Gordon Gartrelle/Michael Jackson mess of a shirt he was wearing during the taping. Shut up, CB and give the shirt back to Theo Huxtable.

*Reel Time: Speaking of MJ, Sony is working on a deal to get those Michael Jackson rehearsal tapes (which are apparently about 80 hours worth of footage) to turn it into a feature film extravaganza.

*Record Breaking: By weeks end, Michael Jackson will possibly beat out The Eagles in "all-time" record sales.

*Control: So Janet Jackson might get Michael's kids after all...is it too soon to call her Mama JanJan?

*When You're Mad: Ne-Yo got a little miffed at bloggers who blasted him about a recent performance where he cried on stage. We'll discuss this further, Mr. Ne-Yo...

*Get Well Soon: The Beastie Boys are going on hiatus as member, Adam "MCA" Yauch has a cancerous tumor.

*Cornflake Girl Christmas: Tori Amos might be releasing a Christmas album this year...or so Billboard claims.

*I O U's: Raptress, Foxy Brown thinks she's special. So special that she hasn't paid her taxes since 2003. Well, now the government is giving her special attention.

Miracle Grow [Cover Smother Week]

Motown's first successful girl group The Marvelettes stand among the flowers on their 1969 release, In Full Bloom. The album would prove to the final commercial hoorah for the trio as the follow-up, 1970's The Return of the Marvelettes proved to a solo venture for vocalist, Wanda Young Rodgers disguised as a Marvelettes release. Oh, how sneaky Motown...picked this for the purty flowers and those hairstyles, nice!

Artist Watch: Get Behind Munroe's Groove

Jonesin' for something new? Then direct your attention to a newcomer by the name of Colin Munroe. The Canadian bred vocalist and producer has been the hottest producing ticket for awhile as rapper Drake and R&B acts such as Divine Brown and Brick & Lace have all scoped him out for music magic. On the solo front, Munroe was recently signed to Dallas Austin's label, Rowdy Records and his first full-length album, Don't Think Less Of Me, will be making an appearance later this year. The first single from that release, "Start A War", has been floating around the web recently and might I say that this is exactly the type of modern funk n' spunk I've been craving for. "Start A War" is a sizzling little hip swiveler with a groove that just won't quit and its sure to please the funky bone (which is connected to hip bone) in your body. Apparently, Munroe has also recorded the track with Audio Diva fave, Melanie Fiona, and well...do you need me to explain further how amazingly genius that collaboration sounds? Till that piece of audio paradise releases, get behind the original groove and have Munroe locked into your musical radar.

Start A War

Party Up! [Cover Smother Week]

So much freaky in this pic...yet, its quite late 70's to a tee. Clearly, this is the most interesting of Rufus and Chaka Khan's album covers. 1978's Street Player which features the stellar hit soul ballad, "Stay", and its quite hard to believe considering this cover. And is that a little boy in the background? Hmm...up past his bed time I see...

In The Hot Seat: Maxamillion

1. Maxwell: Must we state the obvious? Maxwell is #1 on the album charts and making the population triple with each passing day...and for good reason as Blacksummers'night is magnifique and possibly the sexiest thing you'll hear all year. Maxwell is the man of the hour right now.

2. VV Brown: Travelling Like The Light is the feel-good album of the summer...possibly the year. It's a nice break from all those serious electro dames like La Roux and Little Boots.

3. MPHO: Can never say enough good things about this saucy Briton, especially after that Kate Bush cover display from last week. Got a taste of her Pop Art album, and man, America is clearly missing out on some talent.

4. Madonna: "Celebrate", the anticipated new track from the upcoming greatest hits package is supposed to "leak" this week. Some dubs of the track and the lyrics have been floating around the interwebs...also rumors of this track being "80's Madonna" has got me salivating.

5. Nona Hendryx: Just because I've been playing the albums, Nona, The Heat and Female Trouble non-stop this weekend...and because Nona was the LaBelle member who kicked the most ass...sorry, Patti.

*Cover Smother Week: Yes, my 'Spin Me Right 'Round' week didn't go as planned, if you hadn't noticed. As it turned out, last week became more occupied than I thought, which left me with barely enough time to sit down and do proper reviews...so to make up for it, I've decided to do something easier on me, but something fun for yall! So throughout the week, I'll be posting up some album art that I fully enjoy. Be prepared for surprises and possible greatness!

Song Stuck In My Head: The Legend Gets Electric

"Heartbreaker"-MSTRKRFT ft. John Legend (2009)

While some viewed John Legend's Evovler as a mis-step in the soul singer's album cannon...I totally begged to differ, as the sleek electro-funk makeover did him wonders. Here is another great example as to why that shift in sound worked...thanks to my judging duties over at PTA this past weekend, I was introduced to the collaboration between Canadian electronic group, MSTRKRFT (totally not a typo) and the Legend as they do something that is sublime and truly funk for your head on the song, "Heartbreaker". The Legend lets his golden voice shine as it perfectly matches up with the determined piano and punchy beat. Very engaging indeed.

The Scramble: Manic Monday

*Starfish and Coffee: While you were weekending...Prince closed the Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland over the weekend with a quick, yet entertaining set of hits and new songs. Oh, and for the fashion conscious, he also wore a red suit and white platform shoes...

*Cut Ups: Ciara follows the crowd and cuts her hair over the weekend. Why is this news? Because I'm a girl and I like hairstuff, k?

*Rainbow Connection: So Lady Gaga showed up to a German TV show in an outfit that looked like she did taxidermy to a famous Muppet...

*Break-Ups: Rumors are circulating that Janet Jackson and Jermaine Dupri have called it quits. Sad, yet, if true, he'll stay away from her new album....just saying

*Yearbook Club: Thought you're yearbook pictures looked bad? Check out the most hilarious/amazing high school yearbook photos of some of hip-hop's biggest stars. Warning: You'll never look at Lil' John the same. Trust.

Audio Vision: Lil' Kim and Cyndi Lauper Show 'True Colors'

Fan of wacky peanut butter and broccoli duets? Then this should be something to marvel at as Cyndi Lauper and Lil' Kim duetted at the Mandela Day concert over the weekend. Doesn't sound too off the beaten path, right? Well, let me throw in that the two did a trade-off of sorts during the performance. To begin, Lil' Kim sung some verses with Cyndi to her classic, "Time After Time" then Cyndi "rapped" to Lil' Kim's "Lighters Up". Yes, you're reading correctly...Kim did some singing and Cyndi got her raptress on. So was this all well in good? Well, check the vid to form your own opinion but as for me...well, Kim tried and I give her that. Yet, I'm quite puzzled as to why Kim was chosen to sing-along, as Alicia Keys was in attendance that night as well...hmmm. Yet the real creamy nougat center of this performance is Cyndi shouting "sling crack, weed and powder" with such unabashed force....that right there made my whole week...

My Paula Abdul Moment

This week, I was honored to take part as a guest judge for the fabulous Pop Panel over at Mike's fabu blog, Pop Trash Addicts. I'm putting on my glitter bitch hat and dishing up about "that awful new Mariah Carey song", John Legend's club makeover and Bananarama's new single...so if you really wanna see me do some serious bitchin', click the link here and get a whiff of some fun and funky stuff!

Artist Watch: The Emily King Song I Kind Of Missed...

She took us for a 'walk in her shoes' and gave us insight to her 'east side story', but a Grammy nomination and two years later, soul sista Emily King is close to having her face plastered on the universal milk carton for MIA musicians. Well, I shouldn't be so blunt as there have been news bites here and there of Emily touring and performing at events and the like...and yes, she was dropped from J Records...but c'mon like you had to be Sylvia Brown to predict that as we now who is the queen on that label. Yet, whenever, it's been almost too quiet on the musical front for an artist that I adore, I tend to morph into Veruca Salt and I get a little fussy.So digging a little deeper, I combed the interwebs to find some sort of info that would give me comfort to if she is indeed planning to drop that sophomore effort. So after some brief hunting, the song "Second Avenue" popped up and silly goose me, this song has been floating around since March. *headdesk* The track is, in short, some fine acoustic soul, and it manages to fill the void for awhile (even the cute video of Emily's drawings brought a little smile to my face) but as cliche as it sounds...I want more dammit! Still "Second Avenue" gave me a spark of hope that Emily hasn't quit her stride and is possibly gearing up for a second effort. Or so I wish...

The Gospel: Still A Thrill On The Charts

Even from the grave, Michael Jackson continues to thrill on the charts. Jackson proves and challenges the artists of now, on what it takes to be a true musical legend as he racks up a whopping 9 million in album sales in the three weeks since his passing. If you aren't convinced by the bare shelves in the Jackson section of your local CD retailer, then take a peep at the numbers which the NielsenSounscan reports that in the last seven days, Jackson's albums have sold 1.1 million copies. Now combine that with the sales from the last two weeks, and you've got 2.3 million sales in the US alone. Yep, these golden puppies are selling. While this was to be expected once the news of his death broke, it is quite an amazing spectacle to see...and there is not a microphone or smoke machine in sight. Think the figures are fascinating? Then have a look-see at the charts themselves. It should be known that Billboard has some iron-clad rules pertaining to how their chart is organized and developed. Albums that are well...past their expiration date, are not cleared for entry in the present. Thus, all these Michael Jackson singles and albums that are selling like hotcakes aren't appearing on the charts. Yet, this doesn't mean that the charts don't lie...Idolator posted the truthful chart on their site last week, and the results are mind-boggling. You will see "Man In The Mirror" at #5 and "Thriller" at #9 and then as you scroll, you'll see that eight of Michael Jackson's singles ranging from his 1979-1992 album output, are all in the top 30. Talk about wow to the ninth power. Now just imagine if Michael was to dominate all of the top 10 slots? Well, that'd be in a perfect world, right? The charts are a tricky analysis in itself (considering that they deal with not only album sales but digital downloads and radio airplay) but this is a bold reality of what unabashed power music and talent can have.

Crisp N' Fresh: Walk Along With The Prince Of Cool

60's retro magic is recreated by the dapper and always talented, Raphael Saddiq in the fresh new video for single, "Let's Take A Walk" from his fabulous, The Way I See It record. Mr. Saddiq finger snaps and sways along with backing bathing suit clad beauties in this simple black and white visual. What is most enjoyable about this are the synchronized dancing between the ladies and Saddiq. It just seems, to me, like we don't see a lot of "dancing" videos now a days, as some musicians act like they are "too cool" to dance, especially with 60's styled beach Gigets. This truly is a classically cute video...and yes, I said cute. Still don't let that divert you away from viewage, as its quite a nice treat to relax to at the end of the day.

Album Watch: Roisin To Get An 'Urban' Renewal

Ramalama bang bang! Roisin Murphy is in the process of crafting her third album and has announced that she has the first single from the project recorded and lined up. The cheeky titled, "Demon Lover" is the single's name and it has been described by Roisin to be: "a big funky house track" and "a souped-up full on garage tune". Intriguing...The Irish art-pop/soul chanteuse also disclosed that her new album doesn't have a title at the moment but will be "gritty" and "a bit more urban and bass-ey than Overpowered." Whatever "urban" and "bass-ey" mean, it sounds like something incredible. Though I'm hard pressed that Roisin can beat the stellar craftwork of her 2007 album, Overpowered, but yet I have faith that Miss Murphy will blow me away once again.
In other fabulous Roisin news, the singer also announced that she has a bun in the oven, so congrats to her! I totally imagine her newborn being decked out in the sweater and colored balls outfit from the cover of Overpowered when it arrives...but that's just my crazy ass thinking such things. The as-yet-untitled album doesn't have a specific release date at the moment, but expect for it to drop sometime later this year into early next year.

Audio Vision: Daniel Croons, Wale Looks A Lil' Baked

Australian Soul boy, Daniel Merriweather made an appearance on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon last night to perform his song, "Change" with The Roots and rapper, Wale. It's a pretty straight-forward performance, but charming nonetheless as Daniel showcases his vocal chops effectively. Thank goodness for the real singers out there. One thing that I have to give to Fallon's show is that they are showcasing some damn great musical guests, especially those from across the Atlantic. As we Americans sometimes form our own geographical bubble when it comes to music, it's quite grand to know that someone on the Late Night staff knows that not everything on American radio is pristine gold worthy to be shared. Also is it just me or does Wale seem a little bit baked? I kind of got nervous for him as he wobbled on those stairs...Skip ahead to about 3:20 to miss all the shoptalk/bad jokes to get to the nitty-gritty.

The Scramble: Thursday Take-Out

*Studio Time: Christina Aguilera is not messing around with her new album, in addition to collaborations with Sia, Goldfrapp, Le Tigre, Ladytron, Linda Perry and Tricky Stewart...Miss Genie In A Bottle is recruiting Diplo & Switch for the project. Talk about an EPIC album on the horizon...

*Betcha Think This Song Is About You: It's common knowledge The Roots are the best house band on late night TV, but they have sealed their awesomeness by picking some rather interesting songs for particular guests who walk on the Late Night stage.

*Roll Bounce: Didn't make this up...raptress, Eve and Juno's Ellen Page are in a Drew Barrymore directed movie about a roller derby. Sounds quite fetching.

*Old Wise One: You've probably heard that actress, Nia Long has some things to say about Beyonce's "acting" gig, and you've also probably made plans to watch Love Jones and The Best Man in her honor.

*It's For Charity: Paolo Nutini is teaming up with Rod Stewart and the Rolling Stones' Ron Wood to collaborate on a song under charitable circumstances. No word on what the song will actually sound like, but something is a brewing...

Album Watch: Haywoode 'Getting Closer' To A Comeback

As a nostalgia nut, its truly my noble duty to discuss this important piece of info with others who want to revel in the past. Mike from, Pop Trash Addicts, and one of my blog partners in crime, awoke 80's British pop/R&B vocalist, Haywoode from a Rip Van Winkle slumber to conduct her first interview in over 20 years. Yes, you read right...20 freckin' years. The interview shed some light that the singer is about to make her comeback this year as a new song, "Kiss Me Good" is to be released with a possible album in tow for 2010. For those of you who are scratching your heads going, "Who da hell is this?", let me give you a mini-history lesson...Haywoode was one of the talents being promoted by the British production machine, Stock, Aiken and Waterman in the early 80's. In 1985 she released her debut album, Arrival to the success of her single, "Roses". For some reason (or so I've read) Haywoode, at the time, was touted to be the British equivalent to Whitney Houston, but things didn't pan out as expected as by the late 80's, Haywoode's single out-put lessened. Arrival continues to be a hard-to-find pop/soul masterpiece as its filled to the brim with great gems such as Haywoode's rendition of Prince's "I Wanna Be Your Lover" and the funk-dance jam, "Getting Closer" (which was later recorded by Miss Kylie Minogue). With this bit of news, 2009 is really kicking some major ass with the comebacks, that's for sure. If your interested further in Haywooe's return, check out PTA's interview as she dishes about Janelle Monae, her 80's singing career and what she plans to do with her new album. Stepping back into the time machine proves to be fun indeed!

Speaking of "Getting Closer"....

Crisp N' Fresh: Mariah Catches Blance Devereaux Fever

Le sigh. While Mariah Carey's single, "Obsessed" leaves little to linger on the pallet, there was hope in the bucket that the music video was to make up for what the atrocious track was lacking. Sad to say, Mariah doesn't right any wrongs and dives head first into a disaster filled four minutes of complete "been there, done that" dreck. It wasn't like Mariah and director, Brett Ratner didn't try as we see Mariah dressed in drag portraying her male obsessesor (who is supposed to resemble the guy who started this beef with the diva, rapper, Eminem), but it seems that the diva and director just tread water. The two did have tons of opportunities to make this a stellar and comical vid, but it just falls by the wayside, especially since most of the shots are of Mariah flipping her hair and getting blown in the face by a blow dryer. Yawn. Not that men viewers would complain or that this has been Mariah's musical trait for years, but its all so stale, typical and vain. Even the Golden Girl, Blance Deveraux isn't this vain. It's no secret that Mariah is trying her best to compete with all the pretty young thangs in the music biz right now, but this is pretty much desperation. Sorry, but Mariah, the cuteness has truly run its course and its time to grow up.

The Tape Deck: Week #3

1.Dimestore Diamond-Gossip: The bass lick just kind of slaps you in the face, like you said something offensive and got put in your place. It makes you sit upright, give your undivided attention and take it like a man. Blues-rock ecstasy.

2. Who Is It-Michael Jackson
3. Colourless Colour-La Roux


4. I'll Return-52nd Street: The group's second album Something's Going On is a grand little gem from the late 80's, complete with Moog machines, icy tech instrumentation and jazz ensembles. This hit track is quite soothing especially with its fuzzy synths and Diane Charlemagne's comforting voice. The group's Joy Division garage-funk roots are quite fascinating as well.

5. Fistful Of Tears-Maxwell: It has come to my attention this is collectively everyone's favorite song off of BSN. If he doesn't release this, he'll be in severe trouble...we're talking mobs of angry people and lots of scratches...

6. Everybody-VV Brown

7. Blame It On The Boogie-The Jacksons: If this song doesn't put a smile on your face, your heart is filled with ice and you are The Grinch. The video makes you want to snap your fingers and spring out in technicolor 3-D just like the brothers Jackson...


8. Rough Justice-Banarama
9. Going Thru Changes-Ledisi
10. 7 Days, 7 Nights-Sue Ann

Cover Smother: Whitney Strikes A 1985 Pose

Why does this cover feel sooo 1985? Must be the earrings, the fonts, the pose...or the hair...whatever, Whitney Houston looks gorgeous and it's nice to see her face on the cover of a brand new album. Yes, the retoucher got a little too mouse click happy, but all in all, this album cover just blares the opening chorus of "Queen Of The Night". Fierce. But seriously, I'm getting the sense that Clive Davis gave his input for the art direction for this album cover design as this is clearly promoting "Hey! Buy this! This is the Whitney you knew from the 80's!". Oh yeah, Clive and Arista Records, I'm up to your promotion tricks. I Look To You hits stores September 1st.

Audio Vision: MPHO Swaps Places With Kate Bush

Here's something for your late afternoon...a little cover song delight! While we wait (impatiently) for MPHO to unveil her Pop Art, she is keeping us on our toes by doing a stellar cover of Kate Bush's 1985 classic, "Running Up That Hill (A Deal With God)". In fact, stellar is an understatement, as MPHO takes the song and no doubt makes it her own. Yes, even my Kate Bush worshiping ass can admit to that. I have continuously voiced that Miss Bush's songs make for some beautiful soul music (see Maxwell's "This Woman's Work" and Natalie Cole's "The Man With The Child In His Eyes" for proof) and MPHO puts my theory into action as she embodies such an on point soulful quality to the track. So if you thought MPHO could only shop talk about "Box N' Locks", you're in for a pleasant surprise. If you haven't been hip to MPHO, you need to get on the stick and put her on your radar. She is one of the stellar candidates for best newcomers of 2009, for sure. Special shout to XO's Middle Eight for turning my attention to this video, it surely made my day.

Remember The Time: I Wanna Get Away To A Smoky 80's Soundstage

Indulge in the smoke machine daydream of Shannon's "Do You Wanna Get Away" video from 1985. Things to note about this video as you view:

• The title track to Shannon's long out-of-print sophomore album, Do You Wanna Get Away
• Opening scene observation: "Everything is just better in slow motion"-Dave Chappelle
• Yeah, right, like you always meet attractive and interested men on the subway. Such false advertising.
  
• I don't know what's scarier in that office...Shannon's boss or that big ass fish mounted on the wall behind the desk.
  
• What kind of witchcraft is going on with that computer? That guy from the subway is stalking her with prehistoric pop-ups.
  
• The coolest thing about this vid is that creepy hand reaching out through the computer screen...that is pretty avant garde for 1985.
• That silver jacket rules my life.
• There are two guys playing guitars all fiercely, but hello, there is no guitar during that part in the song! FAIL
  
• @ 2:56-3:00, if I was my age now in the 80's, I would totally want to look like that, right down to the black glitter jacket. Shannon, you're my style queen.
• Silly observation: My BFF Guyna looks a hell of a lot like Shannon, I'm sorry, but she just does, it's probably the micro-braids...if Guyna knew this, she'd probably kill me
• @ 3:26: There goes that witchcraft again...Note to self: Don't ever meet a guy at the subway, he's bound to be an urban sorcerer

Freebie Adventures: Adventures In Summer 2009 [June]

The aroma of sunscreen, the hankering for lemonade, the temperatures reaching into the hundreds (especially in the South)....sounds like summer! For the duration of the season, I, the Audio Diva, will be sharing with you guys my summer playlist...in three volumes. Yes, I'm pulling a Maxwell and being a greedy little minx all in one, because I can never have just one summer playlist. In some ways, I'm a bit more precious when it comes to summertime music as whenever I hear the prospective songs it recalls memories of my adventures during my vacation time. What you see before you is a extremely eclectic spill of songs that got the most rotation in June. Some artists are familiar, and others will bring on the "who??". Trust me, you'll find something to like on here. As I highly suggest you take a listen to Van Hunt, Kid Creole and The Coconuts, Kit Hain, 52nd Street and Maiysha. Very good stuff on here, if I may be so modest. Yes, I'm a tad late with my June collection, but no time like the present...so enjoy my sounds of June, let me know what you think in comments and look forward to other collections coming in July and August!

Tracklisting:
1. Endicott-Kid Creole and the Coconuts
2. So Hot-Rashaan Patterson
3. Why R U?-Amerie
4. Shark In The Water-VV Brown
5. Supernova-Mr. Hudson ft. Kanye West
6. Money Can’t Buy You Love-Tamar
7. What You Do-Chrisette Michele and Ne-Yo
8. Man Of The Year-Van Hunt
9. Looking For You-Kit Hain
10. All Genetic-Oceana
11. Hang On Now-Kajagoogoo
12. Box N’ Locks-MPHO
13. Seven-52nd Street
14. Pearl's Dream-Bat For Lashes
15. 4evermore-Anthony David ft. Algebra Blessett and Phonte
16. Orbit-Maiysha
17. Symmetry-Little Boots ft. Phillip Oakley
18. Voices Carry-'Till Tuesday
19. Pretty Wings-Maxwell

DL: Adventures In Summer 2009 Vol. 1 [June] Pt. 1, Pt. 2

Funkier Than The Speed Of Light [Spin Me Right 'Round Week]

A strident shriek and thumping drum blows erupt from the opening track, "Quick Fix", and well, V.V. Brown has introduced herself to your life, and the show begins. The UK has been a buzz over the eccentric musical repertoire of Miss Brown for a good year or so. While V.V. has been whispered shoptalk in the US, due to her constant comparisons to pompadour's best friend, Janelle Monae, V.V. and Janelle aren't totally one in the same, believe it or not. As long as Miss Monae remains on Diddy's shelf of under promoted just collecting dust, V.V. has a shot to be a contender for Americana pop hearts who need a sugar rush. In harsh reality, Janelle has a seven-song EP, V.V. has a full album to play around on, and what an album it is. Travelling Like The Light is urgent, infectious, creatively smart and packs a wallop of good natured pop fun. Personally, this is a nice change from the icicle jolt of UK techno pop that is being spoon fed to the public right now. What we are hearing is V.V. Brown stomping her way into the room, and bringing her retro-pop tart attitude with her. Already released tracks, "LEAVE!" and "Crying Blood" swivel on a 50's/60's go-go trip while the touching, "I Love You" showcases V.V.'s vocal abilities well. "Game Over" is ready for radio with its jolting dance power. "Shark In The Water" is a fantastically divine pop gem, with its hook-laden interior and ability to not take itself seriously. A persistent tumble of words and instrumentation possesses the "Everybody" which proves to the funkiest cut on the album. From the first listen to the now, tenth, it's pretty vodka clear that V.V. has a hit on her hands. All we have to do now is sit back and see what unfolds for one of UK's brightest newcomers.

Rating: 9.7/10
Release Date: July 21, 2009 (UK)

Wipe Off The Dust: Bernadette Cooper Is Cooler Than You

Bernadette Cooper is cooler than you. She's also cooler than me, but that verdict is still pending. Before Beyonce failed tried to bring out the "Sasha Fierce", there was someone who didn't need the word in her name, her actions spoke much louder. Cooper is most known for being the brain child, percussionist and front raptress for the all-girl funk band, Klymaxx. She was the voice behind such infamous phrases such as "slap me cause I'm not in the mood" and "my hair was fierce". After Klymaxx's popularity dissolved, Bernadette went the solo route and released only one album in 1990, the intriguingly fascinating, Drama According To Bernadette Cooper. What I particularly like about this album is not only its musical make-up (as I pretty much like every single song...a true rarity if there ever was one) but the fact that the album plays like the soundtrack to a hip Broadway musical. I know, I know. I'm "taking" crazy pills, but if you heard the album in its fullness, you'd probably, maybe, slightly agree. Each track feels like its own act, and they merge to create a very eclectic piece that centers around the topic of Miss Cooper's out-there mind. There are a lot of great early 90's hip-hop/New Jack beats going on and incredibly infectious tunes with various concepts, ranging from hilarious (the title track), to serious ("The Agency Sent Me") to just plain vain ("I Look Good"). Bernadette does a half-singing/half-talking spiel throughout the album which is actually the coolest thing about the album as singing can be overrated sometimes...I kid. Here are some notable tracks:

The Underground: Sweaty and funky. How a dance track should be.


I'm That Girl: The popping bass is the best part...has a very late 80's Prince quality to it


The Howard Hughes Sitcom: The title automatically gets you intrigued and then your wrapped up in a punchy New Jack Swing song that describes why "cute don't pay the bills". My favorite song off of the album, naturally.


Straight Jacket (Love Affair): Creeps along on a sneering funk drive. The lead-up to the chorus is quite fetching.