Album Watch: Floetry Are Just As Great Seperate As They Were Together

Oops. I'm hopping on the bumper of the late bus with all of this, but there no time like the present to get caught up? The British duo known as Floetry have been separated for several years, but they haven't gone by the wayside. They are shining as individualistic talent...and they have recently been very busy!

Natalie Stewart aka The Floacist recently latched up with Musiq Soulchild to release "Forever", a sensual meditative soul piece that is oozing out with such seductive smoothness that it's got me all hot n' bothered *fans self* It's giving me the same shivers that "Say Yes" gave me back in 2003. Considering that Musiq is on the track it makes for a nice back-to-back with his (epic) song, "So Beautiful" from 2008's On My Radio. Best part of it all? It is free for download! So if you haven't gotten around to downloading it, by all means do, because you'll find this one on repeat for sure. Don't think that this is a random music moment, The Floacist is going to release her debut solo effort, The Floacist Presents: Floetic Soul, later this year. Should be a feast for the ears. 

DL: Forever (ft. Musiq Soulchild) 

Looking at the other half of the 'Flo', we have Miss Sultry, Marsha Ambrosius. I have been ready for Marsha to release an a debut solo album for...well, over two years now. She tided over those urges with mixtapes and guest spots galore, but it's time to get serious and make it official. I guess all those birthday wishes and letters to Santa paid off, because Late Nights & Early Mornings is (finally) making it's way to our ears. Currently, I'm loving her first single, "I Hope She Cheats On You (With A Basketball Player)" and if you follow Marsha on her Twitter, she does drop hints on album prep, news and all that stuff concerning her new effort. Before you know it, November 9th will be here, and hopefully this album will be in your possession. I know it will be for me.

Artist Watch: Go Into The 'Night Air' With Jamie Woon

One of the many great things about being a music blogger is conversing with other like minded minds and keyboard crunchers about all things music and blogging. Each and every time you're in social network conversation, you're always in the company of finding out something new from you're fellow music heads, and finding yourself obsessed with whatever they throw your way. Blogging compadre Pinboard Blog hipped me to newbie Jamie Woon the other day, and let's just say after hearing his song, "Night Air", I wanted to know every freaking thing about this guy. Well, did a bit of research and found out that 1) Woon hails from London, 2) he's influenced by Sade, Santana and Jamie Liddell, and 3) he has a few stuff out now, like his 2007 EP, Wayfairing Stranger. Nice.

Pinboard described "Night Air" as a "majestic beast", and I couldn't of said it better myself. It is supposedly going to be on an upcoming album, and if this atmospheric electronic-meets-soul-meets-new age- thing-a-ma-bob style he has going is just a slice of what is to come...I'm ready to hear more. Also to sweeten the pot, Woon's voice is great...so what is stopping you from pressing play? Take a listen to "Night Air" and thank Pinboard once again for the heads up and the audio.

Wipe Off The Dust: Take A Little Time To Hear Tyka Nelson's Tune

Since I'm an only child (yeah, lucky me) I don't know what it's like having a sibling, thus I live vicariously through others...and feel blessed. Though, in the case of music, I've always been sort of fascinated by the "family affairs" that paint the music scene. You know, the folks under "The Michael/Janet Jackson Factor". Artists who have someone in their bloodline that is right there on the album shelves with them. Sometimes both siblings have success, while others may just have one brother or sister who fails to rise or to match what their more popular sibling is bringing. This is why I find Tyka Nelson interesting, because success didn't really pan out for her considering who she was related too, and it's a shame we didn't give her a chance.

Audio Vision: Wayne Brady, Mike Tyson & Bobby Brown Get Their New Jack Swing Thang On

I love my Tumblr. You should be loving my Tumblr too (*cough* follow me *cough*). I also love the people and sites I follow on my Tumblr dashboard, and one of those sites is Funny or Die. To add to the comedy that explodes on my dashboard daily, Funny Or Die has unleashed a real side clutcher today, and it's right up my alley, considering that I love a good spoof, and some New Jack Swing goodness. So take Wayne Brady, add in Mike Tyson, then take the concept of Bobby Brown's classic, "Every Little Step" music video from 1988, and then add in an obligatory dash of Mr. Prerogative himself, and you've got a recipe for vintage spoof gold. Brady is actually spot on as Brown, while Tyson...well, he's no dancer, obviously, but kudos to him for making Tae Bo into a legitimate dance. He seems to be the perfect cameo nowadays for random moments since The Hangover. So consider this your viral dosage of the day as hilarity will ensue when you press play. 

First Impressions: '10 Seconds' In You'll Be Hooked On Jazmine Sullivan's New Single

Dare I say that Jazmine Sullivan is gunning to be the next Mary J. Blige? Okay, bold statement for the morning, but with her latest chart entry, "Holdin' You Down (Goin' In Circles)" and now with latest, "10 Seconds"...I'm getting an influx Mistress Mary vibes, that it's getting harder to shake. Not that it's bad though, considering Sullivan to having premier vocal talent and a decadent array of songs on her 2008 debut, Fearless.

"10 Seconds" for a smidge sounds like "I'm Going Down". It flows in that same brooding vintage soul vein that Mary's 1993 cover of Rose Royce's classic does, and Jazmine's vocals are defeated, raw and packed with adrenaline, adding fuel to the fire. It's a real treat to hear this type of voice being replicated once again, but just dressed in a new vocal package. The girl has real range.

Off of her upcoming sophomore record, Love Me Back, the Saalam Remi produced, "10 Seconds" is slated to be the singers 2nd single to follow-up "Holdin' You Down". Things are clearly shaping up, and I have a feeling we'll be in for more treats and surprises when Love Me Back hits stores later this fall. You know the drill, peek after the cut for a listen to the fab "10 Seconds" and formulate your opinions in the comments.

Audio Vision: See Van Hunt Under The 'Hot Stage Lights'

Consider this your second dose of intimate concert goodness...Since my bank account hasn't been so kind to me, I have missed going to live venues and catching shows of some of my favorite artists. So all you privileged folk who get to do so...I hate you and stop gloating on your blogs. I'm kidding. I shouldn't be complaining because YouTube is a god send for someone like me who lives in desolate South Texas, a place where if I ever get a chance to see an artist I favor, you bet it's like seeing a unicorn tap dance over a rainbow...they just don't come here. The other day I was vying for some Van Hunt--excuse me--vying for some new material from Van Hunt. Sadly, nothing new is on the horizon, but I'm pleased to say that Van Hunt isn't hiding out being the recluse intellect, he has been popping up and performing on stage, ya know, keeping the sound alive. Someone caught one of his live acts in Ohio recently and posted some of the set on the Tube of Yous. Oh, yes! In these videos, Hunt plows through, "Ur Personal Army" (a favorite from the Popular project), Jungle Floor's "Down Here In Hell (With You)", "Character", Van Hunt's "Dust", and "Her Smile" from his appetizer for fans, Use In Case of An Emergency. From the great quality these videos possess, it's like you're right there in the audience. So if you stan for the man named Van, then take a peep after the cut for a dosage of what the man brings to the stage.

Remember The Time: Smoke Doesn't Get In Pat Benatar's Eyes

Pat Benatar has had her share of classic video moments, whether wearing a striped shirt and snapping like a member of The Jets in "You Better Run" or inspiring the "shoulder shimmy of the fishnetted streetwalkers" in "Love Is A Battlefield". Benatar's later career expressed a more sophisticated chanteuse look, though her songs got even more edgier, a contrast that plays well in a visual like this. From 1985's Seven The Hard Way,  "Le Bel Age" is actually my favorite Pat Benatar song. She has a lot of great ones ("In The Heat of The Night" being the other favorite), but this song has a stellar arrangement that keeps on getting better as it climbs...it's literally criminal that people don't know this song that much. For the video, Pat could have easily let it rip, throwing back her head in angst and strutting around, but that proves to be too easy. She opts to look like more like a demure 60's Blues singer as she cooly keeps a cigarette poised between her fingers and seductively woos the crowd in this classy black and white visual. I have to think this look and overall attitude boiled over into when Pat tried her hand at Blues in the 90's with her True Love record...or maybe that's just me.

Cover Smother: A Feather In N*E*R*D's Cap

For a time I was wondering if N*E*R*D's title for their upcoming album, Nothing was tongue n' cheek or was meant as some ironic manifesto considering that there has been "nothing" in recent months to show this project was going anywhere. The infectious lead single, "Hot N' Fun" dropped, but seemed to just kind of vanish into oasis known as summer 2010, and then well..."nothing" happened later. I was even getting alerts out the wazoo about this album coming out this month, but no tracklisting, follow-up single or cover art was in sight. Well, now, finally, an album cover has come in fruition A really nice bold album cover (which was shot by Terry Richardson) that features the band's ringleader, Pharell Williams' profile as he takes a few cues from military garb and Jay Kay from Jamiroquai. Me really likes. Still, no word on a release date...but at least we know the album is coming.

Recycle It!: The Quiet Side Of 'Baby Be Mine' According To Quadron

Is anyone on Michael Jackson tribute burn-out? Maybe I'm the only Wicked Witch of the Blonglandia who will admit that, but whatever, I'm a bit weary of hearing everybody and their mama doing renditions. Well, that was until Quadron completely changed the game for this moment. My applause goes to Quadron for not succumbing to the typical Jackson remakes of "Man In The Mirror", "Smooth Criminal" and "Billie Jean" and actually digging deeper in the tracklistings of Jackson's catalog. The man had other songs and "Baby Be Mine" is one of 'em. "Baby Be Mine" has been a favorite of mines off of Thriller, and the Rod Temperton composed track usually gets buried among the other big hits. It's now coming up for air, since Quadron takes it into creamy ice cream dreamland as the song is paced slower and morphs into a torchy ballad. You may miss the funk on this (I do miss those squishy synths), but you can't knock the innovation that Quadron displays. See this is why you should already be into Quadron by now, if not, then now is your chance.   

Shouts to Soul Bounce for the heads up.

Audio Vision: Nneka Is Acoustically Yours

It's Monday, and you know what that means. It means you're working for the weekend Loverboy style.  You're also grouchy, tired, and everybody, especially that one little Pesky McPest who just won't quit, is getting on your last nerve...you need some music therapy. Here's where Nneka comes in. In order to ease into your work week, an acoustic session from one of my new favorite artists is what you need. A couple of weeks ago, Nneka took a pit stop into Seattle radio station, KEXP, and gave a live session of selections from her fantastic, Concrete Jungle, as well as two new numbers, "Lost Souls" and "Valley". It's real pensive, intimate, and beautiful stuff. "Heartbeat" and "Suffri" were two of my favorite slices from Concrete Jungle, and it's great to hear them toned down and sounding more like lullabies than Afrobeat thrusts. So chill out for a spell, and sneak a peek after the cut for the performances to relax the mind. You'll thank me later.

First Impressions: John Legend and The Roots Rise To The Occassion On 'Wake Up!'

I'm always yapping away and complaining that mainstream music nowadays doesn't have much of a message, depth, or something tangible of not going in my ear and then out the other like mindless musical liquid...and then I put on Lady GaGa's "Bad Romance". Talk about doing the hypocrite limbo. As we all can decipher with the brain cells we have, there is music to make you dance and then there is music to make you think. Some songs do the ultimate task of doing both, yet, the collaboration between John Legend and The Roots, Wake Up! is geared in the latter. It is music for thought, so sit down, shut up and listen, you might be surprised at what you find.

Song Stuck In My Head: Shake It Up! Cheryl Lynn Style

"Shake It Up Tonight" - Cheryl Lynn (1981)

Whoa, haven't done one of these in awhile....
I have been in a disco/early 80's funk mood all this week (again), and it's not a party in my head unless Cheryl Lynn is at the mic. 

Off of her third album, 1981's In The Night, "Shake It Up Tonight" was yet another minor hit for Ms. Lynn. I've said it once, and I'll say it again that I find Lynn such a criminally underrated vocalist, and every time I hear something that isn't "Got To Be Real" or "Encore", I think..."That could have so been a monster hit".  I say the same for this song. The Ray Parker Jr. produced, "Shake It Up" rolls on a funky bass line and is a classic par-tay! jam that would fit right alongside a playlist featuring Diana Ross' diana and Brothers Johnson's "Stomp".

If the song isn't enough par-tay! for you then peep the video. I often say I get really get bored with house party/in da club/going out to commit debauchery on the town videos, and well, maybe I need to point a finger at this track's video for being an instigator, because there is a massive party going on in this video. I have an Achilles heel for prehistoric old videos that look like they were done for $12 and a drink. Probably because nowadays people try too hard, and this looks pretty effortless. Consider this your energy shot for your Friday to dive into the weekend with.

First Impressions: Bruno Mars Sings The 'Blues'

While Bruno Mars was doing some (stupid) extra curriculars in restrooms and smiling for mugshots this week, somehow someway, two new tracks from his upcoming, Doo-Wops & Hooligans were leaked. If you weren't excited about his debut album, you'll be driving yourself nuts till October 5th rolls around because the two new cuts, "Grenade" and a Damien Marley collaboration, "Liquor Store Blues" are dope. Whoops. That was too soon. Well, they are good, with "Grenade" being a nice torchy R&B mid-tempo and "Liquor Store Blues" (the best of the two) going on a expected Reggae vibe. Clearly, I'm just geeking myself up for Doo-Wops & Hooligans with posting these, but if you're still awaiting, like I, and just want a little taste, take a listen after the cut if you already haven't heard.

Recycle It!: When Motown Met Neo Soul...A Look At "Your Precious Love"

Ah, Motown...we all know that its recent revival, it's mass of copycats and the love affair hold it has been has had on the soul and pop music industry for some time now. It's practically being replicated everywhere. It's nice to do a homage (especially when you do it right), but "ain't nothing like the real thing, baby".

After snatching a chance to watch Tammi Terrell's heartbreaking story on TVOne's exceptional UnSung special (click here to view it before it expires!!), I was of course, inspired to well...dig a little deeper and find some more gems from the Marvin Gaye and Tammi duets, as well as other songs that Tammi recorded before her tragic passing. Little did I know, while Googling up a mess, that I would come across a duet of the duo's classic, "Your Precious Love" sung by none other than favorites, Erykah Badu and D'Angelo. Now many of you may know all about this considering how hard you stan for Miss Du and D, but yeah, I slept on this. I had no clue that even Du and D did a song together, and I'm wondering why this duo hasn't collaborated more often. 

Du and D stepped into Marvin and Tammi's shadows back in 1996 for the High School High soundtrack to put their neo-soul spin on "Your Precious Love". This happened long before either of them really hit it big as, at the time, Badu had yet to record Baduizm. The song is currently resting in good remake company with D'Angelo's recently released Interpretations: Remakes collection (which I need to cop for the sake of him covering favorites such as Earth Wind and Fire's "Can't Hide Love" and Prince's "She's Always In My Hair"). 

So do you feel the fire n' desire on the rehash? I do. Yes, you can be a purist and of course favor the original. As for me, I love the original, and consider it the best duet Gaye and Terrell did together next to "You're All I Need To Get By". Yet, Du and D add a little of their own tenderness to the mix, making for a delightful love fest.

Like Gaye and Terrell, Du and D were on the rise when singing this song, and it's sort of apt that these two would cover it considering how their careers took off thereafter. Badu sounds so crystal clear (and young), and this is the way I like to hear D'Angelo sound...instead of like this. What a difference fourteen years make. Peep both versions after the cut.

First Impressions: 'No Strings' and No Gimmicks With Mayer Hawthorne's Latest

I love it when an artist just releases music for the sheer hell of it. No upcoming album in sight. No promotional lock-up. Just a tweet, some small shop talk on the web, and wham! a new song. Well, I'm partially fibbing because Mayer Hawthorne has released "No Strings" on the strength of getting people hyped about his upcoming fall tour (Yay! He's coming to my neck of the woods!). Still some artists aren't as generous to release a new song for a tour, so I have to give them "the wink and the gun" for issuing out such a fine slice of synth funk to add my birthday celebration.

Hawthorne is no stranger to dipping into the throwback soul sound pool as evidence on his marinated in Motown debut, 2009's A Strange Arrangement, an album that was good, but seemed a bit too carbon copy to be fully original. The Classix produced, "No Strings" actually has him sounding less like a imitator, and more like himself, just with an injection of that vintage soul influence. In fact, I like this more than about half of what was on Arrangement (though I adore the title track). Truly love the 80's rock steady vibe that is bobbing on this. It's very Hall & Oates/Toto/Bobby Caldwell, and all those other blue-eyed soul troopers that occupy my music library. Oh, so satisfied with this. Here is hoping that Hawthorne continues this type of vibe on his next record. Click after the cut for the experience.

Audio Diva Life: A Penny Short Of A Quarter Life...Happy Birthday To Me!

In Mariah Carey speak, I will say that today is my anniversary. My 24th anniversary, if you will. No, I don't have anything special planned. I will probably do the usual, drink, nosh on Audio Momma's prepared Dr. Pepper birthday cake, and collect money say: "Yeah, I did read what it said in the card...." .

So to not make me overly narcissistic today and reflect on why I'm happy to be 24 today, open post y'all!...So in the comments, vent, share your back-to-school woes, discuss what was up with the MTV Video Music Awards, what albums you are listening too, what artists you can't stand anymore...just don't get freaky, save all that energy for Saturday or something.

Wipe Off The Dust: 'Rhythm Nation' Becomes Legal

When an album, especially an album that impacted and set some sort of trend, hits a certain age we tend to scrutinize it for it's "dated" sound. I tend to favor the "dated" feel, because it captures a certain time and a certain style of music that always tends to be duplicated later on down the line, yet still doesn't feel like it did when it was first derived. This is how I feel about Janet Jackson's Rhythm Nation 1814. 

21 years ago on this upcoming Sunday, Rhythm Nation was released (yeah, I missed the 20th anniversary last year...but you probably did too) and it's officially "legal", it's an adult, it has responsibilities. While I always laud the critical darling of 1997 The Velvet Rope as my all-time favorite Janet Jackson album, I have to technically say that I enjoy Rhythm Nation much more. There is just something about it. The mechanical thrust of production, the industrial clanks and grinds of the late 80's New Jack and Pop sound herald  by Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, the overall idea that Janet Jackson concocted of fashionable vigilantes of social justice. It just flows really well and plays like a greatest hits collection since I rarely skip anything on it. Today, Rhythm Nation is a shining reminder of a time when Janet Jackson was clearly on the jaunt from being differentiated from her older brother. You know him, no need to mention his name. Rhythm Nation picks up where 1986's Control left off transforming Janet from a pucker pout pop spout, and brings her into a more serious and icon reaching status. Yep, she's so heavy on this.

Take 5 Fridays: Making Comebacks

Yep, I decided to bring this feature back to the Audio Diva churn because I miss it and because it's a great and simple way for me to catch up on stuff that I always miss in the week or want to just share in the land of musica. I've been lazy, so I'm making up for it. So if you would like to keep seeing this feature pray to the Blog Gods for me to remember to do this each week and let me know how much you enjoy it in the comments!

1. The 'I Support Kelly Rowland' Fan Club: I admit. I haven't been supporting Kelly Rowland lately. I think I designated myself the lone blogger who actually cheers for her after loving life and limb out of the fantastic and murderously ignored 2003 single, "Can't Nobody". I know I need to get over that. I also was alone in the tundra who said they liked 2007's Ms. Kelly and David Guetta "When Love Takes Over" where she assisted on vocals. Still it's rather nice to see Rowland having a massive following in the electro-dance crowd with "Commander". She keeps on bringing the noise with another new song from her upcoming, Grown Woman, album. "Rose Colored Glasses" is up to bat, and the video is wind machine pretty with lots of confetti. It's really nothing special, yet, I really really like the song. Damn, Kelly has me reeled in again.

2. Don't You Forget About Me (aka The Albums I Forgot To Review): There were so many albums that came out over the summer, that I completely forgot about reviewing or didn't feel like reviewing. I truly lost my head, and making up for lost words. So a quick round up in just a few words:

• The Roots' How I Got Over is an album that needs no skip button, it's that good.
• Jamie Lidell's Compass is rather compelling.
• Sia's We Are Born sounds more Christina Aguilera than Christina Aguilera sounded on Bionic.
• Scissor Sisters' Night Work makes me me wanna throw glitter in the air, dance my ass off, and get messy drunk.
• Esperanza Spalding's Chamber Music Society haunts you every which way, it's really for those pensive moments. 
• Zo!'s SunStorm features top notch guest stars as well as top notch mindscaping compositions.
• Rox's Memoirs is surprisingly docile.

Artist Watch: It's Hip To Be Square, According To Zarif and Her 'Box Of Secrets'

Clear some space in your pop-soul finger snapping pleasures playlist, you're gonna need it for what Zarif, Britain newest export has to offer. I know. I know. Another pop-soul Briton? Another so-in-so to tide me over till Amy Winehouse wipes her nose and gets right? Yeah, I was skeptical, even quasi bored to even think the notion, because let's face it, there has been a swarm of Winehouse clones popping up, cashing in on her absence. Since I'm nice, I give folks the benefit of the doubt, and I took a gamble on Zarif's recently released debut album, Box of Secrets and was pleasantly surprised at the how gives you the urge to tap, stamp and shake your sillies out. It's zany fun.

Fans of Natasha Bendingfield's summery feel good numbers, Paloma Faith's old school quirk and Little Jackie's snark will enjoy what Box of Secrets contains. There are numerous genre flip-flops throughout the set. Zarif jumps into 1930's Duke Ellington inspired swinging title track then goes into the ironically named Blues n' funk horn stomper, "Silence Room", and back to the Middle Eastern sounds of "Breakout". Zarif is most impressive when she lyrically dives in on "The Day The Music Left Me", a mid-tempo ballad that has a soul more akin to Beverley Knight, than Winehouse. She also tries out the sunshine soul a la Friends of Distinction on numbers like the single, "Let Me In" and mid-tempo "Summer In Your Eyes".

Zarif is quickly gaining up on the debuts of Dutch singer Nabiha (Cracks) and Ellie Goulding (Lights) as being one of my pop surprises of the year purely on how effortlessly the music is derived. No frills, and nothing to seriously ponder over, Zarif's Box of Secrets is pop minded soul that is indulgent enough that there is no guilt involved. So dig in after the cut!

First Impressions: Bilal's 'Revenge' Is A Dish Best Served Experimental

It's all about layers and texture. Not in the fashion sense. Layers and texture of the vocals and musical sound structure. One who listens, engages or just catches a spare note of Bilal knows that layers and textures are what drive his overall artistry. His voice dips and dives across registers, he rarely sounds the same throughout one song...no, one whole phrase. The music that backs up his jumpin' jack flash spout can begin as a caressing ballad and then end up by song's end as a raging rock stomp. Point blank, you are never ever bored with Bilal. This is one thing that made me a fan in the first place. Thanks to a lot of Ambien sleep pills called male singers now a days, Bilal is the equalizer of today's soul brothas, he knows how to switch it up every single time, which is why he should be let out of his canon much more than he often is. Which brings us to why Airtight's Revenge, the long-awaited third album by the Philly cultivated crooner showcases what tricks he still has under his sleeve and why this is clearly just the start. 

First Impressions: 'Star' Light, Star Bright , Chrisette Michele's New Song Is Quite Alright

Yeah, I got corny and Dr. Seuss-esque with that post title, it's the end of the week doldrums so sue me.

Well, this is sort of surprise news of the day. Chrisette Michele is releasing a new album. Okay. I can dig that. I was wondering what happened with promotion for last year's, Epiphany since the singles all kind of dried up and people sort of forgot about the album as a whole (it was no I Am let's just be real). Yet that's yesterday's news, because Michele is onto chapter three of her career. The first page opens with the newly leaked, "I'm A Star", and it's a sweet little inspirational R&B mid-tempo, that opened up rather curiously with distorted twinkling chimes and synths.

Something about this song feels typical, like it could have been sung by anybody in the R&B game today, yet in Chrisette's vocals (which we all know can blow fish outta the water), it rises to the occasion. I actually like this more so than "Epiphany" and half of the tracks on the Epiphany album. Not shabby, just a little safe, but I'm curious about what Chrisette is going to do with her as-yet-untitled third effort since she's got a whole new image and all that jazz and sprinkles. I do give an massive Audio Diva approval for the single cover. Diamonds are a girl's best friend indeed. Listen to "I'm A Star" after the cut.

First Impressions: Do The 'Hand' Jive With The Ting Tings

Wait, what, huh? Where was I when The Tings Tings released their new single, "Hands"? It was released back in August? Fail on me. To play catch up, the Brit duo are still working on bringing their second album, Kunst to the masses. They have hinted that the album is "strange" and drop names like Nancy Sinatra, TLC and Depeche Mode into the pot of influences. Currently the only inkling of this "strange" entry is the official first single "Hands". The single is crackles with 80's flavor a la Pet Shop Boys meets Missing Persons' Spring Session M, thanks to the glossy Calvin Harris production. Plus it's got a wickedly catchy chorus ("clap your hands if you're working too hard" needs no memory flashcards). All that and more is wrapped up into a fine synth bow and it's a pretty damn near perfect pop track. It's not as momentous as the duo's 2008 hit, "Shut Up & Let Me Go", but it's soaring up on my best of 2010 list steadily.

First Impressions: Can't Believe That I'm Liking A 9-Year Old Child Star's Song...

Consider this your dose of a Internet phenomena for the day. 9-year-old Willow Smith has a song...yes, she is Will Smith and Jada Pinkett-Smith's spawn and yes, all child stars sort of go this route, but this isn't some typical "oh, how cute!" cheek pinching stuff. Willow is damn serious with "Whip My Hair". Usually overly talented little children sort of scare me. Have you seen The Omen? The boy who paints like a seasoned Rembrandt? Contestants on America's Got Talent? When a girl starts singing opera and she hasn't begun to wear a training bra, I'm concerned for my safety. This is one of those things, because Willow sounds better than half of the R&B chicks on the air right now.

"Whip My Hair" may seem moronic or even juvenile, but be damn, it is catchy like a cold and is Top 40 fodder for sure. Could this be the new "Lip Gloss" or "Milkshake"...songs that nobody wants to admit that they like, but can't deny those bouncy beats and the syncopated rhymes? I have no idea what Willow Smith is trying to do...apparently she did this for fun, but whatever the case, Willow kind of splashed fruit punch all over Ciara, Keri Hilson and Teairra Mari, ladies who have been clawing for a hit in recent years. Still I'm thoroughly convinced that Will and Jada have gone all The Skeleton Key and have done some Orleans hoodoo magic and actually possess their children's bodies for further domination...but that is just the afternoon nip talking.  Take a listen to "Whip My Hair" after the cut if you already haven't...

Crisp N' Fresh: We Like Bruno Mars Just The Way He Is

Guess everybody got rested and off of their hangovers from Labor Day weekend, because music has been a flowing. Bruno Mars makes the mid-week slump much more bearable with the debut of his music vid for lushy little single, "Just The Way You Are". Just like the song, it is all kinds of saccharine, hug a stuff animal and eat a box of truffles sweet, as Bruno professes his love for his lady through tape deck art, which was no doubt inspired by artist Erika Iris Simmons (who did this awesome wasome art of Lauryn Hill). Really neat concept, and since you know how I loves me some Bruno Mars, this video will get a few more plays by the end of the week. I have to admit, I am a wee bit jealous of Bruno's girl in the vid...what woman wouldn't want to be wooed by tape deck art (hello, have you looked at this blog's banner?)? Fellas, take note, woo a woman by tape art, will work every time. This video kick starts off the Mars promo machine, as he's prepping to release (finally) his debut album, Doo-Wops & Hooligans on October 5th. Can't wait.

Soapboxing: Why We Need To Stop Making The "Next" One Happen

If you've ever seen the movie Mean Girls, you know there is a scene where "Plastics" member Gretchen uses the word "fetch". After using the word an abundance of times, to "Plastics" leader Regina's chagrin, Regina gets upset and screams at her: "Stop making fetch happen, it never will happen!" This is how I feel about everyone sudden urge to try and "replace" Michael Jackson. Stop. Look at what you said. It's a little stupid. It's not going to happen so please stop trying. Well, stop right now...

Freebie Adventures: JoJo Gives Us Everything & More On Mixtape

As promised last month, Rap-Up got the exclusive to debut JoJo's mixtape Can't Take That Away From Me, a collection of songs that the singer collaborated with various producers and put together as sort of a thank you note to fans. Fans who have been bombarded by unreleased tracks, and little to no definite news on a new JoJo project. So yadda, yadda, yadda...is the mixtape actually good?

Already you've gotten a whiff of the slinky, "In The Dark", and pretty much you're getting the same all over. It's rooted in some great R&B tones and styles, and like mentioned before, JoJo's voice has become richer with age...and she makes this an entertaining set. 

I don't get why JoJo said the mixtape was "experimental", because a majority of the songs could sound right at home on 2006's The High Road especially the perfect pop-n-spark of "Pretty Please". Yet, there is the exceptional "All I Want Is Everything" (check after the cut for a listen) which dabbles in that Jill Scott-esque neo-soul vibe she's been flirting with...and well, that shows a real turn around. Her duet with producer/singer Jordan Gatsby, "What You Like", is another winner as it rides on a funky synth and guitar back-beat sounding quite Ready For The World, if you "squint" your ears.

Produced by the likes of Chad Hugo of The Neptunes, Kenna, Neff-U, Oak, Beau Dozier, Jordan Gatsby and Travis Garland, Can't Take That Away is varying in the sense of whose taking over the production reigns, and that I can give to her. Clearly this mixtape could have been a real album, it's that well thought out, yet I feel that this is merely a warm-up for what JoJo has in store later on down the line...we'll just watch this space. In the meantime, check the choice track after the cut, and get ya hands on the free download now!

DL: Can't Take That Away From Me Mixtape 

Crisp N' Fresh: Marina Spills The 'Shampain', The Tears & The 'Thriller' References

Going all Gain Fresh happy over the fact that Marina & The Diamonds have finally released "Shampain" as the next single from the wonderful, and Audio Diva approved, The Family Jewels. I passionately adore this track. Yet, I'm a bit underwhelmed at the music video for it partially because it's just feels thrown together. Marina wandering around in her own gothic nightmare in a playground filled with zombies seems like a good set-up, but it kind of falls flat. Even the nods (okay, the complete head shake) to Michael Jackson's iconic Thriller video complete with familiar choreography feels outplayed, since we're pretty much on MJ tribute burn-out by now. Still don't let that deter you away from the song...which deserved much more for a music video than this.

First Impressions: Andreya Triana Shares Meloncholy Melodies On 'Lost Where I Belong'

Praise and words have been dotted across the blogosphere about Andreya Triana, and finally the London-bred songstress has caught my attention. Perfect timing too, considering her debut album Lost Where I Belong hits shelves today.

Triana doesn't give us a typical neo soul vibe, she's a bit more complex and melancholy than her contemporaries with a down-tempo and trip-hop groove in support.While there are the warm beams of soul streaming through in the production (which is heralded by producer Simon Green aka Bonobo), there is something quietly mysterious about how Triana approaches the music on here. As the title of the album suggests, Triana is trying to wade her way through her own personal trials, and the whole of the album is sort of the map that she's trying to decipher at her own pace.
We're clearly just along for the journey.

First Impressions: The Foreign Exchange Dreams A Little 'Dream'

Miss a blogging day and bands come out to play. The Foreign Exchange is keeping us on our toes with their spreading the word about their upcoming third release, Authenticity. With yet another picturesque cover art, Phonte and Nicolay have released the first single, "Maybe She'll Dream Of Me". I have only possessed this song for less than 24 hours and it has already gotten an obscene amount of spins. Can't get enough of this funky synth laid-back stuff. So so lush. Always the generous gents, the group is giving away the track for free download. So if you haven't scooped it up yet, whatcha waiting for?! Get on the stick and download it! Authenticity hits stores, October 12th...and that date can't get here soon enough.

DL: Maybe She'll Dream Of Me

Crisp N' Fresh: Get Outta Kylie Minogue's Way, She's Got Gold Claws & Emits Light From Her Body

Nothin' but a sugar rush for Kylie Minouge fans today as the Aussie music goddess released (ahead of schedule) her newest video for great single, "Get Outta My Way". It's somewhat not groundbreaking, but it's like a fireworks show...you just stand there with a gawking face going "ooh" and "ahh" at every little explosion of light. First, you gawk at the outfits, then you gawk at the fact that Miss Minogue can emit lights out from her body just by writhing around on the floor. The final gawk is the chair dance...a very nice nod to Madonna (Blond Ambition Tour- "Keep It Together") and Janet Jackson ("Miss You Much"), even though Kylie's dance of a thousand chairs is done massively even more diva-ish. Add in sparkling glitter, flowing capes, and jazz hands and you've got what you want from a Kylie Minogue video. The happy quota is fulfilled.

Album Watch: No Time But The Present To Follow Lizz Wright's 'Fellowship'

I know it's Friday and you're ready to let loose like a goose, but sometimes you have to pause for the cause, especially when that cause is Lizz Wright. I may not play Ms. Wright as often as I should, but whenever I do, her voice does what that old cliche phrase says...she soothes the savage beast. One listen to Wright's vocals, and it's soul zen time. Drop everything and meditate.

Wright had me with her rendition of Chick Corea and Flora Purim's "Open Your Eyes, You Can Fly" off of her exceptional 2003 debut, Salt, from there Wright continued to be the go-to artist for music that uplifts and nurtures. Uplift Wright will do again when her next effort, Fellowship arrives in stores this September 28th. Fellowship will appease those who like their music with more of a Gospel meets Southern harvested soul as the Georgia bred singer will be taking inspirational songs from tradition as well as shining light on more covers from the likes of Eric Clapton and Jimi Hendrix. Wright also won't be alone on her spiritual quest as all-time favorite MeShell Ndegeocello and Joan as Policewoman will be on deck as guest stars. In the meantime, as you wait for Fellowship's arrival, hear what Ms. Wright can do with a cover as she blazes through Neil Young's "Old Man" back in 2005, to get reacquainted to what will be in store.

First Impressions: Faith Evans Redeems Herself With 'Everyday Struggle'

Aside from the photoshop of horrors that is the album cover (it's truly missing some Blingee effects), latest single release "Everyday Struggle" from Something About Faith is not a muddled mess. In fact it is exactly what I wanted from a Faith Evans comeback song. After being lulled to sleep with first single "Gone Already", Faith, along with guest Raekwon and a familiar Notorious B.I.G. sample of a Dave Grusin track, wakes me and shakes me with the locked in groove of R&B from yesteryear. Yes, this is pretty much what Faith Evans is bringing on home to me with some of her latest music drops. There is just a sense that she hasn't lost her footing and is continuing to be one R&B artist who hasn't strayed from the elements of why we dug them in the first place (Earth to Mary J. Blige). This is the type of R&B that should be still kicking around on the airwaves...but that is just wishful thinking. Enjoy the newest Faith offering after the cut, and circle October 5th on the calendar (if you already haven't) in anticipation for the release of Something About Faith. For me, the anticipation is heightening now. 

Crisp N' Fresh: Cee-Lo & The Saga Of 'F**k You' Continues On

THE anthem for 2010? Oh, yeah. The whole Cee-Lo "F**k You" phenomenon reminds me of the scene from Network, where you want to scream this out the window and tell whoever and whatever that you are mad as hell and aren't going to take it anymore...this is some major musical therapy and I thank Cee-Lo (and co-writer Bruno Mars!) for letting us exercise that right. Currently the first font fancy video has racked up over 4 million video views on YouTube (and counting), and since some people are plush animals the title has been censored to the light, "Forget You". Still don't let the latter take away from the promised new visual for the track. Perfect timing too, considering how much this song has caught on.

Cee-Lo understands all about heartbreak and phony crushes as in this colorful retro Motown nod he goes through all his school years dealing with conniving objects of affection. Everybody (except those lucky guns who always got the guy/girl) can relate to how Cee-Lo feels and really doesn't blame him in the end for giving the brush off to the girl who messed with his heart years ago. Revenge is oh so sweet.