Here’s June 2009’s Second Edition.
Single and Listening
Single Reviews by Release Date
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all over the place |
carries a tune |
part of the chorus |
featured soloist |
conducting the choir |
This time I review 3 divos. Okay, I’ll admit, I’m a little late on the come-up on a couple of these, but this year’s BET Awards turned me on to some things and these are the songs I wanted to review today.
Kid Cudi “Day ‘N’ Nite” Released: February 8, 2008
From Previous Release: A Kid Named Kudi and
Forthcoming Release: Man on the Moon: End of Day ♫♫
Infectious beat and infectious chorus. At first, those lyrics seem a little too straightforward, but then something happens and the cadence hypnotizes you like a snake charmer. Definitely, a sing- and dance-along song. A refreshing change in hip hop subject matter that reflect depth and another point-of-view.
Maxwell “Pretty Wings” Released: April 28, 2009
From Forthcoming Release: BLACKsummers’night ♫♫
I first heard Maxwell perform this at the 2009 BET Awards with a great introduction by Jamie Foxx. Of course it took on a different life as it was one of many tributes to Michael Jackson that night, but the song stands on its own two “wings.” And, it floats weightlessly into the air as ecstasy-laden R&B. I don’t think Maxwell has ever been christened the prince or king of anything, but maybe he needs to be. This is the type of soul that makes you want to dance out of your shell. I wasn’t paying attention to Maxwell before, but I am now.
Jay-Z “D.O.A. (Death of Auto-Tune)” Released: June 23, 2009
From Forthcoming Release: The Blueprint3 ♫♫
It’s what you’ve come to expect from Jay. It’s at his level. And, that’s above average for sure. Doesn’t change the game, though, as much as make an, arguably, necessary statement against Auto-Tune. The interpolation of “Goodbye” works well enough, but seems obvious. The live jazz instrumentation is the highlight and the intended antithesis to Auto-Tune.
July 13, 2009 at 1:58 pm
Well put Freddie, all these tracks are pretty good. Although I haven’t fully paid attention to Kid Cudi’s track yet. Good write-up!
July 13, 2009 at 10:33 pm
Thanks for your comment, When Giants Meet. I had heard of the other 2 songs as well, already, but I hadn’t “listened” to them. Glad you liked the write-up. Please come again.