C Notes for Haiti | Various Artists

Various Artists – C Notes for Haiti
By Peggy Oliver

It seemed like just a minute ago when a cross-section of urban entertainers from Stevie Wonder to Wyclef Jean were making music for one of several fundraisers to collect money for the aftermath of the January earthquake in Haiti. Other famous artists stepped in to produce fundraising singles on behalf of the Haiti earthquake victims. Kirk Franklin and a choir of gospel’s finest under the umbrella Artists United for Haiti asked the question, “Are You Listening.” Another superstar collective revisited the 1985 landmark anthem, “We Are The World,” also celebrating the 25th anniversary of the landmark recording.

But thanks to a vision of Marissa Caliguire, Marty Arnold and Rasul A-Haqq at Escro Entertainment, the compilation, C Notes for Haiti, features a fabulous cast of independent recording artists. Whether C Notes will receive the notoriety of Franklin’s gospel presentation or We Are The World 2010 has yet to be determined. However, the continuity of the ten tracks is crisp; a rarity when it comes down to the average compilation. Avid fans of contemporary jazz and soul can enjoy these gifted musicians while donating to an always urgent humanitarian cause.

The tasty, swinging “Strawberry Lemonade,” a 2005 classic by Darnell Kendricks is just one of many C Notes for Haiti’s recommended moments. This Detroit native is one reason why the Motor City continues to bristle with urban talent. Detroit represents again with a saxophonist that mixes inspiration with lots of hops. Tim Reeves’ “Peace” is a masterpiece with its soft Latin flair and wonderful electric piano sweeps. Matt Cusson’s suave tenor recalls the days of how the old school soul ballad should be delivered on “Every Step.” No wonder this singer/musician has the goods since he once worked alongside one of the best soulful tenors in the business – Brian McKnight. Imagine collaboration with two fixtures in the U.K. soul scene – Kloud 9 and backgrounds by Incognito. “The Promise” spins a solid dance groove to Kloud 9’s gospel-induced vocals. The gentleman they call ‘Lil Man Soul,’ Jackiem Joyner, has risen to the smooth jazz top with his melodic soulful saxophone, as is the case of “Horns for Haiti.” I have to add the duo Impromp2’s “Mo Jazz” (a shout out to their first record label) with its drop-dead funky hip-hop-edged musical change ups. Their vocal and instrumental prowess is absolutely ridiculous. But the unexpected bonus comes via the unsigned vocalist, Llisa Juried, who weaves her soulful lines into the power pop ballad “Yours To Save.”

Once again, I tip my hat to Escro Entertainment for giving us a justified reason to support those in need and those who need their jazzy, soul fix.

Peggy Oliver
The Urban Music Scene

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