These next few months are set to massively inject more new music into the industry than we've seen so far this year. Sit down and take a deep breath, 'cause this list ( heavily abridged ) might knock the wind out of you. On the way before the end of the year are albums from: Cindy Lauper, Floetry, Enya, Liz Phair, Shakira, Fiona Apple, Alicia Keys, Franz Ferdinand, Outkast, Madonna, Mary J. Blige, Depeche Mode, Dolly Parton, Sinead O'Connor, Bette Midler, and Stevie Wonder. Now exhale.
At the top of the coming attractions for me are The Fugees. They are reported to be working on a new yet-unnamed album, which is the subject of much skepticism. I'm a bit jaded that we haven't heard anything substantial from Miss Hill since her blazing hot 'Miseducation' album, but with my hands folded in prayer, I'm hoping we actually see the coming of a new album from The Fugees. You never know, it could be the best album of 2005. Visit sonymusic.com to hear their new single.
When I'm shopping for records, there's always one name that I buy without listening. Since the beginning of my career as a DJ, and even well before then, I've purchased this groups' music without hesitation. Their latest album is no exception. Upbeat and happy, these folks have more talent in their little fingers than most pop stars who've charted in the last twenty years.
I'm talking about the band Jamiroquai. They have consistently defined the sound of good music as it advances ever forward. Their twenty million album sales attests to that. Branded initially as Acid Jazz, they've made solid contributions to R&B, Dance, Funk, Soul, Electronica, Blues, and Jazz. You name it, they've done it.
Their latest album 'Dynamite' is no exception to the rule that Jamiroquai = good music. The hour I spent listening to the album was one of the best times I've had lately. Jay's voice is still sweet. Derrick and Sola keep the beats fresher than fresh. Rob's guitar and Paul's bass funk everything up. Matt's keyboards jazz it all the way, and the trio of Lorraine, Hazel, and Sam are a group of backup divas that I'd want behind me at all times. In a world of dark music, it's good to be able to find some feel-good music out there.
'Dynamite' builds upon the basics of Funk and Soul. The title track is a laid back groove with a coating of Disco and a bass-line that will make you bounce your head. Equally as funky, the song 'Starchild' has that '70s wah-wah guitar that is priceless. A slow jazzy jam, 'Tallullah' will make you want to turn down the lights and chill.
In my spotlight is the track 'Don't Give Hate a Chance'. It starts like a Sylvester track, but when Jay starts singing and the divas kick in, you know this is pure Jamiroquai, good message and all. In true form it builds up to an explosive finale. Feel-good to the core, 'Dynamite' is an album that won't leave my iPod any time soon.
With you in 4/4,
Peter Mavrik
peter@windycitymediagroup.com