Bell Biv DeVoe, Three Stripes
(Entertainment One)
Review written by Brent Faulkner
The 1990s was a time when urban music was flourishing. R&B was hot – particularly New Jack Swing. Hip-hop itself was becoming a massive force. Bell Biv Devoe hail from the glorious 90s, laying claim to one gargantuan, multiplatinum album (Poison) and two gold albums (Hootie Mack most notably).
Joe | #MyNameIsJoeThomas
by Peggy Oliver
From the day he exercised his passion for music, Joe Thomas was bound and determined to build a name for himself, even though the rise to hit making greatness was slow in coming. The sparks did not immediately fly in the industry when his first single, “I’m In Luv,” hit the streets.
Neo Soul Trio KING launches Fall Tour with Spirited Yet Problematic Hollywood Show
A Concert Reflection by A. Scott Galloway
October 3, 2016
For the past several years, twin sisters Amber and Paris Strother, and Anita Bias – collectively known as KING – have been building a fan base from Los Angeles outward with their loving homage to the synth, Moog bass and rhythm machine groove of the `80s via inspired original material and choice covers.
Eric Benet | Self titled
by Peggy Oliver
When an artist bears their soul in concert or in the studio, their devoted fans will quickly soak it up like a sponge. Crafting powerful, profound music is an arena that Eric Benet takes extremely seriously since the day he struck a mighty chord in the urban market twenty years ago with his solo debut, True to Myself.
Dave Hollister | The MANuscript
Shanachie
by Peggy Oliver
There are just a handful of R&B artists who simply cut to the quick with every story they tell and every emotion they express. Dave Hollister knows how to work the live stage and the stage he sets in the recording studio with reality scenarios about romance and relationships, which provide plenty of musical meat (and seasoning for that matter).
The Robert Glasper Experiment
ArtScience
(Blue Note)
A Record Reflection by A. Scott Galloway
It’s been a long wait for keyboardist Robert Glasper and his quartet the Experiment to get back to making music on its own. Though the group righteously picked up a Grammy for its first of two all-star collaborations with guest vocalists, Black Radio, the promise made by the forward thinking electric ensemble’s debut on the second half of Glasper’s Double Booked CD in 2009 (the first half was Glasper’s acoustic trio) is not only being fulfilled, there are a few awesome and exciting new twists.
Anthony David | The Powerful Now
Shanachie
by Brent Faulkner
There is no sugarcoating it. Singer/songwriter Anthony David [Harrington] is among of most soulful R&B artists in the game. David possesses a superb vocal tone – he excels at delivering tender ballads as well as electrifying with his emotionally-charged grit.
Incognito
In Search of Better Days
(Shanachie)
A Record Reflection by A. Scott Galloway
Jean-Paul “Bluey” Maunick is easily among the most prolific men in modern music, particularly within his specialty niche of acid jazz/club/quiet storm. Between his solo CDs, outside productions and, of course, his work as leader of the collective Incognito, he is also a generous giver with projects usually no less than 14 solid tracks apiece.
Leon Timbo | What Love’s All About
by Peggy Oliver
In this wide world of accomplished singers who strongly represent the urban music game, there are still many voices waiting in the wings. Whether joining in worship with Jason Nelson or jamming with R&B sensation Tyrese, Leon Timbo has always exercised his artistic passion with inviting stories and a warm lush baritone.
Fantasia | The Definition Of…
RCA
by Brent Faulkner
Look up “the definition of” underrated or underappreciated in the dictionary, and a photo of R&B diva Fantasia will be found. The best way to characterize her is as a fiery, passionate soul vocalist with an anointed, distinct set of pipes.