Thursday, November 20, 2008

"Paul Mac Innes & T.B.O.I." by Paul Mac Innes & T.B.O.I. (R&B Artist from New York City, New York(NY))

"Paul Mac Innes & T.B.O.I." is an impressive self-titled release from the Swedish duo comprised of vocalist Paul Mac Innes and saxophonist/drummer Björn Almgren, also know as T.B.O.I. (The Brother Of Invention.) Their sound is a highly polished blend of rock, jazz, pop, soul, and R&B that is radio-ready. Just one listen to this album and you realize that the primary focus here is on creating well-written songs with lovely melodies and performed with a high degree of musicianship. The production is clean and professional throughout, with a pleasing lack of overproduction and tricky effects. "Welcome to The Bunker" is a strong opener, with a silky soul groove and vocal harmonies reminiscent of Steely Dan. The vocals are incredibly strong throughout, beautifully layered to produce the desired effect on each track. Listen to the superb harmonies on "Need" and "Time?!" for great examples of this. "Even Though" has a definitive gospel flavor, showcasing the group's versatility. The rhythm section is extremely strong on this entire album, with funky bass lines and in-the-pocket drum grooves throughout. "What You Do" features the melodic saxophone of Almgren along with his tasteful, inventive drumming. "Paul Mac Innes & T.B.O.I." is a creative collaboration between two very fine musicians, and the product they have produced is a very original and enjoyable form of soul music. Fans of Steely Dan and Sly & The Family Stone will want to check "Paul Mac Innes & T.B.O.I." out.
-Rodney and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Paul Mac Innes & T.B.O.I.'s music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

"Lord Hear My Prayer" by Second Chance (Rap/R&B Artist from California (CA))

"Lord Hear My Prayer" is the debut two-song EP from Christian hip-hop artist Second Chance. Second Chance's story is one of overcoming all odds, coming close to dying over and again, repeatedly surviving, and finding God. These two songs showcase the new life, the "Second Chance", of a former gang member. Through clean, original, and well-delivered hip-hop vocals, Second Chance delivers inspirational and encouraging songs of love, of others, of yourself, and of God. The recording quality of "Lord Hear My Prayer" is great, adhering to the full potential of the great hip-hop arrangements and lyrics. The title track, "Lord Hear My Prayer" has a smooth r&b opening then moves into a great hip-hop arrangement with intimate lyrics between Second Chance and God, also featuring the smooth and soulful backing vocals of Brenton Wood. "There's Something About Your Love" has a funky arrangement with a nice beat, with another inspiring vocal from Second Chance and great synthesized backing vocals from Rufas Troutman. This two-song EP is a great introduction to Second Chance and leaves the listener in eager anticipation for more. Fans of hip-hop with largely Christian-oriented positive messages, give Second Chance a shot.
-Chris and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
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Saturday, November 15, 2008

"All to You" by Stanley Porter (Spiritual/R&B Artist from Boston, Massachusetts (MA))

"All To You," is the third album from urban gospel artist Stanley Porter. This release highlights his unique blend of gospel, soul, hip-hop, and R&B. Creating a spiritual experience is the theme of this album, and Porter delivers. Porter combines electrifying, danceable beats with heavy synthesizers and sincere, passionate vocals. He delivers a diverse collection of songs with spiritual, glorifying lyrics unique to his incredibly personal style and to the genre as well. The production is ambient and rich, sounding very professional throughout. Great vocal harmonies and layering is a trademark of Porter's sound. The inspirational anthem "Pray" and the silky "Everything" are perfect examples of this. Also listen to the expressive vocals on the moving "Speak" and the soulful "Righteous." Porter gives us a taste of his style of hip-hop with the uplifting track "Press," where he combines an aggressive groove with his distinctive, storytelling rhymes. Porter has produced an impressive collection of spiritually progressive songs with "All To You," which has a lot to offer for fans of contemporary gospel and Urban/ R&B alike.
-Rodney and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Stanley Porter's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"Spirit Groove" by Jason Hatfield (Spiritual/Soul Artist from Miami, Florida (FL))

Pastor Jason Hatfield has broken the mold of conventional praise and worship with his impressive release "Spirit Groove." As the title suggests, Hatfield's vision is to uplift the spirit with a musical groove. "Rain" is a tastefully funky opener, setting the tone for an energetic listening experience. The production is clean and professional, characterized by wonderfully layered vocals over a rhythmic backdrop provided by fantastic musicians on live instruments. The aptly titled "Party," is also a lively track filled with emotional vocals and spirited musical performances. The feisty "Rise Up" employs a horn section, playful bass line and silky drum groove to provide yet another enjoyable funky track. There are tender moments as well, such as the gently flowing "Break My Heart," the smooth "I Belong to You," and the graceful "Be My Refuge." The group of musicians Hatfield has assembled for this project is extremely talented, each musician shining throughout this release both individually and collectively. Jason Hatfield's "Spirit Groove" is a very inspirational and impressive release that can be enjoyed by fans of many musical eras and genres including Christian, R&B, Funk, Disco, and Motown.
-Rodney and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Jason Hatfield's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

Monday, November 10, 2008

"Ready 2 Serve U" by Jameel Jahmay (R&B/Pop Artist from Virginia (VA))

Jameel Jahmay has created a memorable collection of Urban/R&B and Pop with "Ready 2 Serve U," a self-produced album showcasing his many musical talents. Jahmay is a versatile performer, moving seamlessly through the various styles and moods he creates, shining in each setting with his smooth vocal approach and intelligent lyrics. The production is clean and professional, with crisp programming and beats, tasteful vocal layering, and polished musical performances. "Special Greeting" is a lovely, touching ballad, with Jahmay singing straight from his heart. "So Wonderful" has a definite gospel vibe, with Jahmay's vocal range on full display. The creative composition and prominent acoustic guitar on "Find Love" gives this track an airy, live feel. The extremely funky "My Biz" is reminiscent of old-school grooves with a modern, contemporary flair. Jahmay covers many styles with this album and is comfortable and at home in each one. "Ready 2 Serve U" is an impressive release that will appeal to the fans of Urban/R&B, Soul, and Pop music.
-Rodney and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Jameel Jahmay's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites