India Arie
In the great tradition of Motown music of old, soul music with a ton of meaning and vocal style has come this way again. In Atlanta, all the true heads have been down since day one. In fact, I remember the first time I ever heard the distinguished and (gosh, I don't even use words like this) rapturous voice of the one belonging to India Arie. I said to myself, "My God, who is this?!". I'm talking 'bout this girl's voice is literally to die for. Well, finally there's soon to come an opportunity to hear India in your own crib instead of only being able to go see her play live or even worse, not knowing about her at all.

Her debut album, Acoustic Soul is dropping in late March and you know I wouldn't steer you wrong. The first introduction to her was on the soundtrack to Bamboozled with the tune "You're Always In My Head" and snippets of a few other songs. The ones that I've heard and love so far are "Butterfly", "God In You", "Brown Skin", & "Peace, Courage, and Wisdom". The current single (maybe you've heard it before) is "Video", a strong statement about being satisfied with and appreciative of one's self and simple attributes.

Believe me when I tell you that not only are you gonna love Acoustic Soul , but you're guaranteed to learn something from it. It's perfect for chill mode and then some. If you're down with some downright soothing songs that jam, teach, reaffirm, and are subject to rock you to sleep (if that's where you're trying to go), put on some Acoustic Soul. The name speaks for itself.

Glen Underground
Now I'm gonna tell the truth, I ain't been too crazy about House music since I was getting it up at U.G.A. 'round 92. I still remember some of my favorites though. They were just good songs. Ten City's "Good Life", an artist I didn't (and still don't) know with a joint called "Respect", and of course the Jungle Brothers' "I'll House You". Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh,! O.K., enough reminiscing.

Anyhow, another house legend by the name of GLENN UNDERGROUND (Chicago cat), has released LOUNGE EXCURSIONS that is definitely a must buy for the house heads, and also something nice for those of us that enjoy new, nice, and interesting sounds.

Not many vocals, but the production is air-tight. If you're down for some up-tempo beats that take you back while keeping you moving, put on some of Glenn Underground's LOUNGE EXCURSIONS. This is a solid album and you know I wouldn't lie to ya.

Frank McComb
-you've gotta check for Frank McComb's LOVE STORIES. You may know him from his vocals on Buckshot Lefonque's album, Music Evolution- most memorably with the beautifully deep "Phoenix" and the one for those who long for love, "Another Day". Frank is a lyricist with a modern day/old soul voice reminiscent of the greats. Filled with ballads, LOVE STORIES is all about love for your mate, yourself, your lessons, your man & womanhood, your God, and your life. If you're up for some mid-temp slow jams with a brother that's holding the vocal skills down, put on some Frank McComb.

Jill Scott
Ok, enough of your foolishness if you haven't caught on yet. Jill Scott is the shit. Thank you God for allowing her to be a part of our generation. She really mighta saved the day. At this point, as it has been since the day after it's release, it's tough to get a copy of "Whois Jill Scott: words & sounds". Keep trying though, this is one of those albums that truly touches the soul and makes you feel as though particular songs are speaking precisely what you feel and want to say.

The album release party's performance @ The Riviera (atlanta) was definitely on point. Jill Scott is an intriguing sista with a cool aura and professional way about her artistic abilities. You can tell that along with the raw talent, ample time and consideration have been given to the packaging of this music and the artist for public consumption. For us underground heads, the crowd felt a little "pop". However, it's very good to see this kind of vibe reaching the masses. Who knows maybe the world is ready for SOUL MUSIC again.

Bahamadia
Like a little hip hop in your life, but sick of it stinking the way it has been doing especially of late? Try Bahamadia. The BB Queen EP is in the stores for the lo-lo. Definitely some smooth sh*t to nod & chill with. My favorite joint is a dedication to her home team, "Philadelphia", a bad instrumental with a nice crooner throwing in the right amount of spice. The other 6 songs are nice and tight as well, youknowhowshe do. Bahamadia is a Godly sista on some decent life stuff, so I'm definitely feeling ma girl.

Shaft & The Nutty Professor
Now I'mmo tell you the truth. The movies (in my humble opinion) ain't really hittin' on nothing too tough, but I'd like to hip you to two real decent soundtracks that are definitely worth your time, money, and a little affection. Hear me out, Shaft & The Nutty Professor are two albums you might need to see about copping. If you haven't guessed it already, Shaft is on some smooth sh*t. C'mon!? The history of Isaac Hayes indeed lives on. Alicia Keys (hot surfacing, nice voiced, piano playing sista formerly of So So Def) has a joint on there that's hitting with some old school flava. Other honorable mentions are Big Gipp's "Servin'" and the Outkast joint featuring UGK, "Tough Guy". Definitely don't sleep on the slow jams. Shaft needs to be a part of your collection.

On to the Professor Klumps joint. Movie, not for me; Soundtrack, worth checkin' for sheezy. Look out for this cat Musiq with a tune called "Just Friends". Gimme the songs with some sincere love, ya know?! I'm lovin' my man for making this joint. I'm praying he has the courage & fortitude to continue in the same vain and bring forth more music of this sort. Case has a nice melodic one on there as well, plus the Jay-Z "Hey Papi" is there (for the pop heads) along with Janet Jackson's tune that either makes you say "Ugggh!" or "Well, that's my girl Janet-using what works for her...it's cool", "Doesn't Matter". Listen to the soundtracks in the store before you buy to see if there's any agreeance. Holla back at me, let me know what you think. Always remember that soundtracks can be the source of some of the tightest joints that we never hear and many times a great avenue for unknown artist to hit the market for their first time. Here are two examples where relatively new artists are making their presence felt in a way such that I'm hoping there's more to come. If ya haven't already, put on something fresh & new.

Julie Dexter
This week, I wanna put you on to a young lady soul singer that I consider a personal friend. She is the UK's "Queen of Soul" and truly a sweet spirit. Her name is Julie Dexter and she has recently released a 7 song EP here in the United States. My personal favorite songs are "Sweet Melodies of Jupiter", "Ketcha vibe", and "Peace of Mind". You've gotta check for this sister, especially if you hear of her performing live. For you that like jazz, soul, and vocals like myself, pick up Julie Dexter's EP at Earwax or Jumpstreet records and enjoy some truly good music, even while it's still on the hush.

soulfood
This review is especially for the heads that like to cool out and/or use music as their company (in the absence or presence of someone else) in lieu of the television. Personally, I love jazzy sounds.

For the most part- I prefer some singing (i.e. sangin') in my songs such that any amount of instrumentation bores me unless somebody's coming on to blow soon. Here however, is an album predominantly of instrumentals that has won the applause of even my scrutinizing ears. The name is Soulfood, a seriously smooth compilation on Cookin' Records. To name a few, it features artists Blu Mar Ten, Blame & Odyssey, Bjorn, K-Scope, Architex, and Artemis. The texture is rich and the entire piece flows as it helps you think while life moves right along. Musicians use a variety of instruments to create an aura that's very heady. Let me not get too deep though. Suffice it to say, Soulfood is nice. Type stuff you wanna chill to when you get off from work or perhaps early mornings to allow your mind to float a bit. Let me not forget to mention the cover artwork that says a lot itself. If you're in a pensive mood, put on some Soulfood.

SADE
Perhaps you've heard the buzz that a new one from the Classic classy lady is about to drop. Sade. I thought this would be a perfect time to insure your knowledge of all of her original work released. Most of the hushbox readers, I'm sure, are hip to all four of her previously released recordings- but it's my job to make sure! Feel me? True dat.

Love Deluxe- The latest release, is definitely a must have. I remember this being the first CD I bought as my hundreds of tapes were then (in '93) becoming obsolete. Highlights from Love Deluxe include "Cherish the Day" and "Kiss of Life".

Promise is perhaps the highlight of her career with songs to die for like "War of the hearts", "Is it a crime?", "Never as good as the first time", "Maureen", "Mr. Wrong", and the ever popular "Sweetest Taboo". Stronger Than Pride is one I've loved as well with the strong message and haunting vocals from the title track. Also included on this piece is the popular "Nothing can come between us", "Give it up", and one of my favorite motivational tunes "Keep Looking". The first album, released waaay back in what? 82', is entitled Diamond Life. This was the one to introduce the world to the Europe native's smooth voice, lyrics, and a band that would in later years stand on their own to make music equally enchanting (see: Sweetback). Some may remember the tune called Cherry Pie. There are some other mid-to-slow tempo joints on there that can be considered Underground Sade as they did not gain the commercial attention that her later works did.

To put it short, if you're a Sade fan, you need to cop all of her work-just to say you've got it. Though Diamond Life is the least popular of the albums, do understand me to say that this is nonetheless a must have. Indeed, Sade is the classic classy lady. With her voice, style, aura, strikingly good looks, history of quality music, and rumors of being a bad mother-shut your mouth, Sade is definitely one to check for. Let me just say, I'm glad that she's back. Look out for the new release sometime in late October/early November.

The Chronicle
Makin', makin', makin' moves in Atlanta! The Chronicle is the name (of the band) and Makin' Moves is the game, the title of their debut release- another quality independent joint. Those of you here in Atlanta already know the scope. Famous for rockin' the Yin Yang on Thursday nights and backing up whosoever may've come to the Funkjazz Kafe that night, the Chronicle is a band that we identify with as a whole both because of the individual members and the vibe they provide. The album is a 15 song ride through the "chill out & kick-it" zone. Highlights include turntable work by, my favorite DJ, Kemit, guest vocals from Laurnea, Stacey Campbell, & BoneCrusher of the Lyrical Giants, and several songs that either take you back to the Yang or make you wish that you had been there before. For example, 3rd & Spring is a jazzy ensemble that reminds you of how good it is to be everyday people. The album as a whole is just a nice one to have. As per usual (of the stuff I recommend), it's of the cool-out sort. Tightinstrumentals with some extra spice and some surprises here and there.I have to say that my favorite one to have in my own possession is...The Rock song. Play that rock shit! Play that rock shit! You wanna talk about energy? You know how we like to bounce in Atlanta to some hard-hard! Anyways, I'm getting too personal :). Scoop the album. It's available of course at the Mom & Pops (Earwax, Vibes,Music, & More, hopefully Fatbeats) and @ The Chronicle.net. Trust me, when you put it on-you'll feel it. Ain't that what you want? Love.

Stankonia
If you're living here in Atlanta, then "shawty you already know". The 4th album of our two favorite homeboys has just landed...STANKONIA is now officially the place to be in the ATL., and from the looks of past record sales, it'll be the same in other cities as well. We're talking about Outkast, the duo of Andre & Big Boi that brought us Southernplayalisticadillacfunkymusic, ATLiens, Aquemini, and now the latest release- hip hop on some wildstyle - STANKONIA (fun when you say it like this, Stank- on- ya!). How's the album? Fun. Interesting. Danceable. Insightful. Different. Ghetto. Defiantly Stanky! I like it. But I'm mo tell you the truth, I'm biased as a mugh! I love these guys - for their spirit, their wit, their honesty, their style and personalities. To me they're some true "Atlanta boys" with the type of sense of humor I like. Which brings me to the general statement to be made about the album. Point blank, if you like Outkast, you will grow to love STANKONIA. If you're familiar with the artists, you know already that they're not on some "run of the mill" beats and lyrics stuff. They're innovative. Initially, it [the album] may even strike you as weird- but after a few listens (3 or 4 max), you feel another spot in your soul opening a lil' bit more, making room for another musical perspective. Stuff you might not've felt ordinarily, you feel 'cause you went there with your folks.

Don't get me wrong though, there're some joints that you're gonna love from the get-go. By now, who ain't rockin' when Bombs Over Baghdad comes on? Who ain't feelin' the message conveyed and bobbing with Ms. Jackson (Oooooooh!)? When you hear So Fresh, So Clean- you will press rewind. If you're semi-slum like myself, you're gonna feel the slow grind of Slum Beautiful. Other joints incorporate drum n' bass which I know many will appreciate, while some others are on some real moody, something you can smoke to vibe. Then, some are just plain ol' bump to while you're ridin' and listen to what these dudes are talking about now. Lyrically, as always the fellas are intricate with their designs, chopping it up staccato style and saying some stuff that people need to hear. Of course, the brothers of The Goodie Mob do some guest spots along with other Dungeon Cats- Slim Calhoun, Lil' Will, Backbone, & C-Bone. Again if you're an Outkast fan, STANKONIA is a must have. If you're not an Outkast fan, stop playing. Let me not forget to mention some of the styling work on the insert photos done by our own Keith A. Brown. If you wanna get on some music that's psychedelic, hip-hop, soul, soulstirring, anti-status quo, bangin', and stanky, put on some STANKONIA!

Bamboozled
Now that I have finally seen the movie, I feel apt to do a review of the soundtrack that I've been enjoying so much lately. Bamboozled, a Spike Lee Joint, is a movie centered around the phenonmenon of black face performances and how black folks sometimes don't even hesitate to sell their own souls, much less sell the culture of their people for fame and riches.

The movie? Ehh....for me, not so much (I felt as though I was the choir hearing the preacher speak on something that I no longer need to hear). But, the soundtrack? Now we're talking! Absolutely enchanting. Stevie Wonder has two cuts on there reminiscent of Songs in the Key of Life. Need I say more? Angie Stone has a jazzy one called Slippery Shoes which speaks of how, as black people, we've already got an uphill battle to start with. Not only is there a conscious message, but the song is tight- you know Angie is her usual melodic self. Along with the "Mau Maus", Mos Def has a track that, though I am not crazy about, is an alright song. Another hip-hop notable is The Roots collaborating with Chuck D, and Zack de la Rocha for a new and improved version of Burn, Hollywood, Burn cleverly put in the past tense. Goodie Mob is also representing to the fullest with a tune called It's Just a Song wherein Cee-Lo is snapping! I mean, think of the subject content. You know Goodie tore it up for their two cents.

For many albums these days, there are only a few songs that you can listen to and really enjoy. This one has enough good material to consider it an already classic. With that, let me end with the highlight of the album. A young lady by the name of India Arie is known by Atlantans and being introduced to the rest of the world. Not only does she get the love of having her first single on such a prestigious project, but there are also clips of 4 of her other songs included at the end of the CD- and they are bangers. The single is entitled In My Head. Very melodic. My favorite part is the guitar playing. The drums and the lyrics are to be commended as well. As for the rising star's voice, you gotta hear it for yourself. Absolutely enchanting. Bamboozled is a very enjoyable piece of work. Prince is also on the album (with a song that I don't particularly care for, but you may). Together, these artists have brought forth some heartfelt lyrics and music that have done a lot for my soul, and may do the same for you. But don't get me wrong, some of y'all need to see that movie.

Pick up some history. Put on some Bamboozled.

Erykah Badu "Mama's gun"
You know, the thing I really like about doing this column is that I don't hafta write about anything I don't like. To me, it's beautiful to be afforded the opportunity to always say good things about one of my favorite subject matters. The whole purpose of my job here, is to "put you on" to music that I feel is worthy of your time, money, and sharing with others. Like, if I wasn't feelin' Erykah Badu's new album, Mama's Gun- I wouldn't even hafta say a word. It's cool because when this column began, I anticipated having to frequently reach back and abroad (in time & levels of abstraction) for music to review. It so happens that, with the recent release of several works of some of our favorite artists, there has been little need to talk about too much other than what's currently on the forefront. Which brings us to the follow-up of an album that soothed a nation of lovers (of life). Mama's Gun is the latest release of Erykah Badu's, and with the impact that Baduizm had, my guess is that it's being welcomed with oh so open arms. In short, it's a great album. Very atmospheric, of course soulful, truthful, and enchanting.

Many will ask, is it as good as the last album? Me? I say, why compare? That's a waste of time. Listen to the music and let it speak to you now. It's the same Badu with the same good ass music and the same distinguished voice that brings to mind the pain, passion, and joy sang in the voices of some legendary jazz/blues singers who's names I can't think enough to call, but I know that thang in her throat and delivery from somedamnwhere. Erykah's off the chain a lil' bit too, with the opening joint called Penitentiary Philosophy and Kiss Me On My Neck rolling on the periphery of that smooth sound that we're accustomed to hearing in what has been dubbed "New Soul". One thing I really like about this album is that some of the songs seem so long, but they never lose you. The song Green Eyes goes 3 or 4 different places as though they're separate songs enmeshed like an aria. It's jazzy, bluesy, slow, smooth, on the deep side, and jamming like, o.k.- that was an experience. I remember a time when I was kinda like "ughhh" in response to music that's very personal to the artist in a way apparent to the listener. Nowadays though, I understand. What else do I expect people to write and sing about, if I (in mind) don't allow them to speak of things very personal to them? I say this to say that Mama's Gun sounds to be mad personal and very much appreciated. Songs like My Life, ...& On, and Cleva are rocking in a way that most can truly relate to and be thankful to the artist for being so generous with their experience- not to mention how Bag Lady is straight schoolin' ladies and men alike on the importance of simply letting go.

Other highlights include a special appearance by Steve Marley on In Love With You and Time's a Wastin with the lingering melody of "Don't you take your time young man." The songs that have not been mentioned here go right along with the rest of the material making for a real cool affair. If you don't have the album already, make a proper investment in your soul. Pick up Mama's Gun and shoot yourself :).

Omar
Omar, the English cat with the wicked hair style and the coolest brother we know from the UK, has dropped another bomb of soul music for our listening pleasure. Best by Far can be described as just that. With a very decent following in the U.S., hopefully at home, and abroad, Omar just keeps chuggin' along with his unique style of singing and writing music that not only makes sense but shows us just how cute it is when a man reveals his tenderness.

Don't quote me now, but I believe this is his 5th effort. The albums that I am familiar with are Music, There's Nothing Like This, For Pleasure, and This is Not a Love Song- but I wouldn't be surprised if there's one I've never been introduced to. By the way, all of these albums are very worthy of your patronizing and the latest lives up to its title by keeping the same formula for great tunes and adds a jazzy zing of something else that makes it more appealing to the masses than perhaps previous releases have been.

For example, there's a rendition of Be Thankful done with Erykah Badu that does plenty of justice to the original. The 3 word title track, Best by Far, induces a near trance when it comes on with a "don't worry be happy" like vibe that just kinda takes you there.

One of several great love songs is Essentual where my boy just goes all out to tell a woman how important he feels she is. Another favorite of mine is an interlude entitled The Goodness that very well categorizes most of the songs on the album. It puts you in the mind of ragtime jazz with sweet melodies. Along with that, believe me when I tell you- Omar is a lyricist! Some of you may recall songs like Little Boy, Can't Get Nowhere, There's Nothing Like This, Fallin', Music & others that exemplify this fact.

Well rest assured that the same something that made you love and appreciate these songs is present on Best by Far. Good luck finding that sucker though, cause although I can put you on, I ain't the one who puts it out. I haven't seen a copy for weeks now. Some suggestions are Soul 24-7.com, Vibes, Music, & More, Earwax, & Wax n' Facts. Hurry though!