Perspective [Import] [Limited Edition]

Track Listings

1. We Got All Night

2. See How The Love Goes

3. Cant Fall Asleep To A Lullabye

4. Special Girl

5. Fifth Avenue

6. (Its Like You) Never Left At All

7. Stereo

8. Lady With A Bluebird

9. Cinderella

10. Unconditional Love

11. Fallin Off The World

Editorial Reviews
Album Description
French reissue of the 1984 album. Packaged in a standard jewel case housed in a special digibox. 2000 release.

Perspective, Music, America, Pop, Rock, Rock/Pop

A Worshippers Perspective
Average customer rating:

Good Worship

Praise and worship

Hidden Treasure

Awesome Worship CD!!

He Made it!

A Worshippers Perspective
Earnest Pugh
Manufacturer: Crystal Rose
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music
Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music
Christian Contemporary Music | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music
Live Recordings | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Here Is Our Praise

Write My Song

A Fresh Wind

My Destiny

I Can Do Anything

ASIN: B000G1R4IO
Release Date: 2006-07-25

Tracks:

Holy Spirit
High & Lifted / Everybody Life 'Em (Medley)
Just For Who You Are
Father I Worship You
He's There
If You Never
Call Him
Praise' Em (In The Meantime)
The Song Of The Lord
Speak To Me
Wrapped Up, Tied Up, Tangled Up (Extended Version)
So Much

Customer Reviews:

Good Worship.......2007-01-16

I am sooooooo glad that I found this CD. It is absolutely a good product. I love to hear the worship that oozes from the CD. I wish he would do more of the prophetic worship.

Praise and worship.......2006-12-17

This is a very good CD. I had never heard of Earnest Pugh before. The songs were very uplifting. Great to lift your spirits. Would highly recommend.

Hidden Treasure.......2006-10-28

If you love gospel music, praise & worship..THIS CD IS THE ONE TO BUY !!.. I still get goosebumps everytime I hear this cd.. Earnest is truly gifted, annointed, blessed and it pours out through his music. If you HAVEN'T heard it, ya better ask somebody! If you HAVE heard it, Ya better tell somebody ! AWSOME work..when is the next project ??????

Awesome Worship CD!!.......2006-09-05

I truly enjoyed listening to the CD, especially the arrangement of Wrapped Up, Tied Up, Tangled Up and Just For Who You Are. Earnest is leading us into worship and pouring out his heart. May God continue to bless and keep him.

MD / Concord Church

He Made it! .......2006-08-22

Mr Pugh has been singing...I mean sangin' since early years! Glad to see you amongs the stars! Great CD! Truely worship!

Average customer rating:

I Never Get Tired of This CD
Grateful?
A Sublime Production
my two cents
"Grateful" - John Bucchino's CD is hit!!

Grateful: The Songs of John Bucchino
John Bucchino
Manufacturer: RCA Victor
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Soft Rock | Pop | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music

Traditional Pop | Oldies | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music

Cabaret | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music

Traditional Vocal Pop | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music

General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music

Musicals | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Grateful - The Songs of John Bucchino
It's Only Life: Songs of John Bucchino
Songs From an Unmade Bed
The Jason Robert Brown Collection: 24 Selections from Shows and Albums
Listen to My Heart: The Songs of David Friedman

ASIN: B00004SBV2
Release Date: 2000-04-18

Tracks:

Grateful - Michael Feinstein
Sweet Dreams - Judy Collins
That Smile - Liza Minnelli and Billy Stritch
It Feels Like Home - Daisy Prince
A Powerful Man - Jimmy Webb
Unexpressed - Adam Guettel
Temporary - Lois Sage
Dancing - Patti LuPone
If I Ever Say I'm Over You - Art Garfunkel
Sepia Life - Andrea Marcovicci
The Song with the Violins - Amanda McBroom
In a Restaurant by the Sea - Ann Hampton Callaway
Not a Cloud in the Sky - John Bucchino
Taking the Wheel - Brian Lane Green
Better Than I - David Campbell
This Moment - Kristin Chenoweth

Amazon.com

John Bucchino may not be a household name, but his songwriting abilities have gained him many famous fans, several of whom appear on this collection. Backed only by Bucchino on the piano, said fans include Patti LuPone (who featured several Bucchino songs on her last solo recording), Michael Feinstein, Ann Hampton Callaway, Liza Minnelli, and Billy Stritch, but also Jimmy Webb. Sentimentality sometimes rears its ugly head, and the best performances are by those who skillfully avoid it, like Judy Collins, whose "Sweet Dreams" is heart-wrenching, or Art Garfunkel, who lends quiet vulnerability to "If I Ever Say I'm Over You." Now let's give Bucchino a solid libretto and a gifted arranger, and see what he can do with a full show. God knows Broadway is in dire need of tunesmiths. --Elisabeth Vincentelli

Customer Reviews:

I Never Get Tired of This CD.......2007-05-06

I have owned this CD for several years now and most songs on it, do not get tiring, and are now old friends. First, John Bucchino ought to be producing "cabaret" albums like this monthly. The wealth of wonderful talent in that world need to be heard. I read other reviews, and some spoke of sentimentality etc. I applaud his honesty and his ease in writing songs that tell stories and show LOVE in many of its forms, and nuances.
Specifically: Adam Guettel's rendition of Unexpressed is one of the most heart breaking songs I've ever heard. Adam sings it with such sweetness and "hope", and you want to climb into the song and just hold onto him. Judy Collins: does her voice ever age? And the song leaves such a mental impression. I agree with another viewer that Brian Green should have been given another tune, maybe a ballad, but, he always sounds great. Christine Chenowith fills your heart with those words. I DISAGREE with a critic who said that Restaurant by the Sea doesn't work. Anne Hampton's voice and interpretation brings you to a specific place and there's no way you don't see her and the person she sings about. Okay, this is silly. THIS IS AN ALBUM EVERYONE SHOULD OWN. Sure, there might be singers someone doesn't like, but...it is an album of songs that spin tales, and are songs that you really have to listen to the words, and FEEL the depth of what is going on behind the actual music.
Bravo to John Bucchino!!!!

Grateful?.......2006-06-08

Am I the only one who thinks the rather pretty "Grateful" bears more than a passing resemblance to "Happy Birthday" from "I'm Getting My Act Together and Taking it On The Road"?

I agree that Minelli's track was painful. As was LuPone's. Several of the others are lovely, though.

A Sublime Production.......2005-12-21

This is one of the most appealing "cabaret" recordings in a long time. With only a few exceptions, there was some masterful work involved in pairing each of these singers with their assigned songs; the effect is often that the song fits the singer like a glove. In particular, "Sweet Dreams" is sung by Judy Collins -- and sounds like she might have written it herself!

It seems to be a testament to Mr. Bucchino's talent -- and regard amongst his peers -- that several fine composers sing his songs here. Adam Guettel, Jimmy Webb, and Ann Hampton Callaway are delightful additions, and imbue their selections with grace and feeling. All of the other singers -- except two -- likewise bring great passion and artistry to their tracks. And though I've never been a great fan of Michael Feinstein, his rendition of the title song is extraordinary.

Another appealing aspect is that Mr. Bucchino accompanies all the singers. There are no cheesy or unskilled arrangements like other recent theatre compilations; it's just a grand piano playing accompaniments that feature infectious rhythms, bittersweet phrases, and some very rich harmonic tapestries. I can't think of a better pianist for these songs than the composer himself -- since he obviously knows the songs, he makes the piano the perfect complementary partner for the singers, in that the accompaniment never overpowers the vocals nor abandons them. This man is a true artistic colleague, rather than a talented egomaniac. And because the accompaniments are so rich and full, one never gets the feeling that something is missing [e.g. a full orchestra]. I thought that Stephen Sondheim was destined to be the last composer who wrote accompaniments that are vital to the evocation of feeling; thankfully, Mr. Bucchino proves me wrong.

My favorites of the songs are those that are, for lack of a better term, character pieces. Although many other songwriters are skilled at creating quasi one-act plays in their songs, Mr. Bucchino goes the extra distance on a couple of these songs by intentionally not making everything crystal clear. For example, at the end of "Sweet Dreams" we simply leave the company of the two characters -- Mr. Bucchino "leaves 'em wanting more" in that we want to know what happens next. Very skillful and original.

And now the bad news, in five words: Liza Minnelli and Billy Stritch. Just awful. What vocal prowess Miss Minnelli once possessed is gone, and her bouncy style has always had limited appeal on audio recordings and is, frankly, greatly diminished here. As for Mr. Stritch, who has been Miss Minnelli's artistic partner for years, his only talent thus far has been as a jazz pianist; he is a droning vocalist, and since he is not playing piano on this recording it is a mystery as to why he is even involved. [I cannot imagine anyone ever going to a gig in which Mr. Stritch was going to be solely a vocalist; the poor oaf has neither basic vocal talent nor even a sense of vocal styling to at least "sell" a song.] The two of them sort of try to infuse some feeling of fun and frolic at the beginning of this jaunty song, but it sounds forced and unbelievable and is soon abandon in favor of the "I am such a smooth and cosmopolitan artiste" attitude that Miss Minnelli has, in the past, employed much more successfully. Just a ghastly, ghastly performance to endure more than once -- well, actually three times: Once in shock, once to confirm that one's ears were actually working correctly, and once more to laugh uproariously at the sheer inanity of it. Thereafter, one resolutely skips past this track, wishing that one could permanently erase tracks on commercial CDs.

But the other tracks far outshine that one dud track. If you like cabaret material -- or even just good songwriting -- this recording won't disappoint you. And the title song alone is worth the purchase price -- a passionate and glorious melodic line, paired with a sincere lyric that is devoid of any semblance of triteness or cliché. Very, very touching.

my two cents.......2005-10-12

After reading ALL of the reviews here, I've decided to add my two cents. First, give credit where credit is due. John Bucchino writes wonderful songs. You may not like them all - but there are different styles of music represented on this CD, and something should peak your interest.

That being said, most of the singers are truly downright awful. I don't care how much clout they have in the broadway/cabaret world - if they don't record well, they shouldn't have been given the job. The downfall to using such below average recordings is that unless you've heard a better version of some of these songs, you will probably skip over them and never give them a second chance. (especially daisy prince trying to sing "It Feels Like Home" with the wrong rhythms and notes... try listening to Nancy LaMott). I actually re-burned this cd to completely omit the Liza Minnelli song. Awful isn't even a strong enough word. I also purchased the sheet music book and have learned some of the songs without having to listen to these interpretations.

Not that everthing was negative. "Unexpressed" sung by Adam Guettel is haunting, and I had it on repeat for a couple days. I had to listen to Art Garfunkel sing "If I Ever Say I'm Over You" a couple times, but it has grown on me and become a favorite. Believe it or not, the song "Not a Cloud in the Sky" sung by John himself has grown on me as well. Granted, he is not a singer (at least i hope he doesn't bill himself as one...) but keep an open mind when listening to it, and you'll "get" his interpretation. pretty neat. I also liked David Campbell's track "Better Than I" after listening to it a couple times.

Ultimately, Ann Hampton Callaway (who sounds wonderful, but "In a Restaurant by the Sea" is just not a favorite song of mine)Adam Guettel, Brian Lane Green (who should have been given a better track to sing) and Kristin Chenoweth are,in my opinion, the best voices on this cd at first listen and their talents are underused on this cd...and where is Sally Mayes??? Don't give up on this songwriter, just keep your fingers crossed that next time he puts out a recording, better recording artists will be used.

"Grateful" - John Bucchino's CD is hit!!.......2005-08-03

This CD was recommended to me by an online buddy. It is filled with wonderful gems of music that are not in the mainstream media but are touching, funny, and are masterfully performed by noted cabaret and musical theater performers. I am glad that I've added this to my collection......

Africa to America: The Journey of the Drum

Average customer rating:

AAA-"Anointed/Appointed and Approved"
One of The Most Uplifting Recordings In History
Their best album!
I Have It Again
Better Than Their Debut Album of Three Years Earlier

Africa to America: The Journey of the Drum
Sounds of Blackness
Manufacturer: Perspective Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

The Evolution of Gospel
Time for Healing
Soul Symphony
Very Best of Sounds of Blackness
Unity

ASIN: B0000012SX
Release Date: 1994-04-19

Tracks:

Hold On (Pt. 1)
I'm Going All The Way
Ah Been 'buked
I Believe
Hold On (Pt. 2)
Everything Is Gonna Be Alright
Sun Up To Sundown
The Lord Will Make A Way
He Took Away All My Pain
A Place In My Heart
The Harder They Are The Bigger They Fall
The Drum (Africa To America)
African Medley: Royal Kingdoms
A Very Special Love
Strange Fruit
Black Butterfly
You've Taken My Blues and Gone
Livin' The Blues
Ah Been 'buked (Pt. 2)

Customer Reviews:

AAA-"Anointed/Appointed and Approved".......2006-03-26

I've had this cd twice and would lend it to others-never to see it again!!! I can't say how happy I am to have found it on Amazon. The music/the words are all inspiring. "I'm going All The Way" has gotten me through some "trials and tribulations" and "He took away all my pain" helped me to continue on. Whoever buys this cd will not be dissappointed-it supplys whatever you need!!!

One of The Most Uplifting Recordings In History.......2005-03-04

This is one of those albums that I could just play from start to finish and over and over. The music and spirit in these recordings is just incredible and the lyrics are among the best I have ever heard. I believe that everyone, particularly African-Americans, should own a copy of this album. There are a least 5 potential hit singles in this collection. This album affects me emotionally as much as any album of the last 25 years. I can be in any situation or mood and listen to "Black Butterfly" and be instantly invigorated and filled with power. I hear this song and get chills. One of the greatest albums in decades -and actually of all time.

Their best album!.......2004-11-27

Africa to America: The Journey of the Drum is the Sounds of Blackness' best album! It is their finest collection of music to date. I love all of their albums but this is a must-have for anyone who enjoys urban gospel music and wants to be uplifted!

Many songs hit home for me, especially when I'm having a bad day. My favourites are: "Lord Will Make A Way", "He Took Away All My Pain", "Livin the Blues" and especially "A Place in My Heart".

"A Place in My Heart" should have been a single. Next time you listen to this song, listen closely to the words. Very inspiring message from mother to daughter. No better singer could deliver the message on this song than Ann Nesby.

Purchase this CD if you like the Sounds of Blackness. The whole CD tells a true story with a very happy and inspirational ending. Enjoy and God Bless!

I Have It Again.......2001-10-19

I was so happy to receive this CD after I had lost it a few years ago. The CD is absolutely excellent. If you have never heard Sounds of Blackness before, I guarantee that the first time you hear it you won't be able to stop. If you like their first CD, "Evolution of Gospel", you will like this CD twice as much. I play my CD at least 3 times a day (notice "at least"). You will love Ann Nesby, the lead vocalist on most of the tracks. You might almost mistake her for someone like Aretha Franklin. You will love songs like "I'm Going All The Way" and "The Harder They Are The Bigger They Fall." Other good songs are "I Believe" and "A Place In My Heart" in which Ann Nesby sings a tribute to her daughter. "Strange Fruit" and "Black Butterfly" might actually bring tears to your eyes as you hear about the struggles of African-Americans in the slave days. Get "Africa to America: The Beat of the Drum" if you haven't already and also get "Evolution of Gospel" if you don't own that already.

Better Than Their Debut Album of Three Years Earlier.......2001-08-26

Usually, the sophomore effort of a group pales somewhat in comparison to the first; but Sounds of Blackness scored a coup by releasing one that is definitely an improvement over "The Evolution of Gospel." And that is a monumental achievement. The release, like its predecessor, mixes the old with the new. The selection of traditional spirituals ("Hold On," "Sun Up to Sundown") and a Billie Holiday classic ("Strange Fruit") complement the contemporary tracks. The latter are outstanding with great production and vocals from the talented singers. The Al Green-sounding "The Lord Will Make a Way" and the Curtis Mayfield-like "He Took Away All My Pain" are excellent testaments of faith. Poignancy reigns in the beautiful "A Place in My Heart, a mother's testimony with a passion-filled performance from Ann Nesby, and "A Very Special Love" with Billy Steele and Carrie Harrington sharing the lead. "The Harder They Are The Bigger They Fall" is a funk-driven selection featuring lead vocalist Jimmy Wright. "Black Butterfly," though not as memorable as the Deniece Williams' classic of the same name, is still a wonder to behold. All should hear the "sounds" of this underrated ensemble!

Mo' Money: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack

Average customer rating:

Brings back memories
One of the best soundtracks of the nineties
weak
Brilliant Timeless Tunes

Mo' Money: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
Public Enemy feat. Flavor Flav , and Color Me Badd
Manufacturer: Perspective Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | R&B | Styles | Music

General | Compilations | R&B | Styles | Music

Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

1990s | By Decade | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
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Boomerang: Original Soundtrack Album
New Jack City: Music From The Motion Picture
House Party 2: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
Ralph Tresvant
Strictly Business

ASIN: B0000012SK
Release Date: 1992-06-23

Tracks:

Mo' Money Groove - Mo' Money Allstars
For You? Free - Mo' Money ST
The Best Things In Life Are Free - Luther VAndross And Janet Jackson
Gimme My 2 Dollars - Mo' Money ST
Ice Cream Dream - MC Lyte
Amber, Let's Go - Mo' Money ST
Let's Just Run Away - Johnny Gill
Don't Throw That Away - Mo' Money ST
I Adore You - Caron Wheeler
Get Off My Back - Public Enemy
Forever Love - Color Me Badd
Fun And Games With The Mail Boy - Mo' Money ST
Money Can't Buy You Love - Ralph Tresvant
Hi Johnny Baby - Mo' Money ST
Let's Get Together (So Groovy Now) - Krush
Joy - Sounds Of Blackness
A Sister Just Like Her - Mo' Money ST
The New Style - Jam And Lewis
I Think I Mightta Gotta Job - Mo' Money ST
A Job Ain't Nuthin' But Work - Big Daddy Kane And Lo-Key?
My Dreams Need Detail - Mo' Money ST
My Dear - Mint Condition
Big Time - Mo' Money ST
Brother Will - The Harlem Yacht Club

Customer Reviews:

Brings back memories.......2003-04-16

This cd brings back alot of memories from the childhood. The cd has the songs straight from the movie which is hard to find on current soundtracks from these new movies that come out. If you love the tunes in the movie then you'll love the soundtrack.

One of the best soundtracks of the nineties.......2000-01-31

This soundtrack is incredible. The beats on this album are to die for. It's full of high-octane, shut-up-and-dance cuts like "Ice Cream Dream," "The Best Things In Life Are Free," "Let's Get Together (So Groovy Now)", and "Money Can't Buy You Love." In addition, the soundtrack also includes the an enchanted star-soaked ballad by Mint Condition entitled "My Dear" --I recommend listening to that song at night, it just evokes such beautiful imagery. Overall, Mo Money is one of the best (if the best) soundtracks of the 90s. Worth it.

weak.......2000-01-30

considering the Legacy of Jam&lewis they could have done way better than this mess.you know it's a joke when Janet Jackson&Luther Vandross are doing a duet? that's the funniest thing that i've ever heard.cuz vocally they are world's apart.the rest of this cd is dead weight to the ears.

Brilliant Timeless Tunes.......1999-09-30

My favourite tunes on the album are Ice Cream Dream, I adore You and Money can't by you love. I bought this album back in 1992 and lost it I loved the album so much that I went out and got it again. The movie was excellent too. Another favourite soundtrack album of mine is Above the Rim.

Average customer rating:

Brilliant and inspirational
The Greatest of the Group
Great Music with a Great Message
you don't have to be Christian
Influenced a Bevy of Current Gospel Stars

The Evolution of Gospel
Sounds of Blackness
Manufacturer: Perspective Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Christian Contemporary Music | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

General | R&B | Styles | Music

General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music

$7.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

R&B | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

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Africa to America: The Journey of the Drum
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Handel's Messiah: A Soulful Celebration

ASIN: B0000012SG
Release Date: 1991-05-07

Tracks:

Chains
Optimistic
Ah Been Workin'
The Pressure Pt.1
Testify
Gonna Be Free One Day
Stand
The Pressure Pt.2
Your Wish Is My Command
Hallelujah Lord!
We Give You Thanks
He Holds The Future
What Shall I Call Him?
Better Watch Your Behavior
Please Take My Hand
I'll Fly Away
Harambee

Customer Reviews:

Brilliant and inspirational.......2004-11-28

This is a brilliant collection of urban gospel music from the Sounds of Blackness. It is only fitting that the album start off with the powerfully uplifting track "Optimistic". I often listen to this track on the way to work every morning.

I also love The Pressure (I prefer the Part #2 version to Part #1). Your Wish is My Command is a song I enjoy listening to after I get through a rough day or a challenging week with so many responsibilities. It is my way of praising and thanking the Lord and offering myself to Him for redemption and forgiveness and His love.

Other tracks that stand out include "Stand", "Testify" and "Hallelujah Lord". If you enjoy other songs from the Sounds of Blackness or urban gospel music in general, you won't be disappointed with The Evolution of Gospel. Pick up a copy today and prepare to be lifted!

The Greatest of the Group.......2003-07-25

If you are new to Sounds of Blackness, I recommend that you listen to "The Evolution of Gospel" first. I don't recommend it first just because it was their first recording, but because it is also jam-packed with a lot of their greatest hits. I am 100% positive that you will enjoy the entire recording from start to end. You will want to listen to "Optimistic" over and over and over again no matter what type of music you like. If you love party music, you'll probably want to listen to "The Pressure, Pt. 1". "The Pressure, Pt. 2" is a mellow version of the first part, but the lyrics are the same. You will also see that Sounds of Blackness loves "parts". In almost all of their recordings, there is a song with two or three parts. This album is an excellent representation of all of the different genres of African-American music, but don't think that this one is just for Black people. All races are welcome to listen to (and enjoy immensely) "Evolution of Gospel" and all recordings of Sounds of Blackness!

Great Music with a Great Message.......2002-12-06

I first saw this group on ARSENIO HALL, the late night variety show in the vein of Johnny Carson, but hipper. I was blown away when I saw them. They performed Optimistic and it was amazing, hip, funky, contemporary and most of all relavent. The messages throughout the album reflect struggle and perserverance and ultimately success in the face of all obstacles. These messages appeal to all people not just African-Americans or Christians. The key to this album was a good grove throughout, polished basslines, and timely lyrics. If you like music from the nineties-hip-hop/pop then this album will fit in nicely. If you enjoy contemporary Christian Music then the messages are solid but the music is more urban in nature and may not appeal. If you love any type of good music then squeeze this into your collection-you'll be richly rewarded with a well crafted album that just happens to have something to say.

you don't have to be Christian.......2002-01-13

I'm not even sure how I stumbled on this one a few years ago. But I have probably listened to the songs "Optimistic," "Testify," "The Pressure," and "He Holds the Future" hundreds of times by now. And though I'm not black, or Christian, these songs about being honorable, having hope, and appreciating what you have hit the right notes with me over & over.

Influenced a Bevy of Current Gospel Stars.......2001-08-25

The debut album by Sounds of Blackness was like nothing else that preceded it. Deftly mixing gospel, urban sounds, traditional, and pop, the group managed to blend such diversity into a pleasurable whole. Under the direction of musical director Gary Hines and made under the masterly production team of Jam & Lewis, "The Evolution of Gospel" is a brilliant testament to faith, as well as the historical significance of the "spiritual sound" descended from African slaves. It is obvious that all musicians involved beamed as they performed the respective songs, thinking about the sacrifices made by their forefathers. The evocative "Chains" segues into the inspiring "Optimistic," the group's first hit single. The follow-up released single "The Pressure" is presented in two forms: the danceable "Part 1" and the reflective slowed-down "Part II." Both have the Jam and Lewis trademark sound. Another hit "Testify" is here, also, making the release filled with recognizable tunes. A remake of Sly & The Family Stone's "Stand" is remarkably rendered while the "Hallelujah, Lord" harkens back to the days of the renowned Fisk Jubilee Singers. "We Give Thanks" is sheer beauty. The remaining selections continue along the same lines with triumphant results. All the leads, chief among them Ann Bennet-Nesby, are outstanding. Without a doubt, Hines assembled some of the best singers and musicians in his ensemble. Regardless of one's religious inclinations, this is a must-have for the spirit, as well as the ear

Average customer rating:

A R&B Masterpeice!
One of my all-time favorites ... !!
Say Whut?
I love smooth
Smooth

Reality
Smooth
Manufacturer: Perspective Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

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Similar Items:

Smooth
Azz Izz
Do You Wanna Ride?
The Second Coming
Total Control

ASIN: B0000062PF
Release Date: 1998-03-10

Tracks:

Strawberries
Don't Sleep
We Funk Too Quick
Anything I Like
Do Ya
Wishing Well
He Thinks She Don't Know
It's On
I'm In Love
Willing To Fight
You Said You Loved Me
Loving You
Reality
Strawberries (Computer Love Remix)

Customer Reviews:

A R&B Masterpeice!.......2007-03-02

Definitely feelin this CD by Smooth. I'm a big fan of her music anyway. It's a must get if you really love mellow R&B. She stepped it up and is showcasing her R&B side more than her rapping like she usually does on her previous two albums. The album cover should showcase it enough. I can't really say what my favorites on the CD because there are too many to choose from. Stop sleepin on the Female Mac!

One of my all-time favorites ... !! .......2006-07-11

I bought this album several years ago soon after it was released and I really found myself enjoying it from start to finish. This is one CD I tend to always pull from my cd stock whenever I want to take a break from the norm in the world of music. This album is definitely not like most R&B albums ... it has a sultry bluesy funkiness about it. I'll always name this album as a must have for my extensive music collection. Smooth really did a good job on this album and I'm happy to have it in my collection. Southernly Yours, Daphne (Always A Southerngirrl) .. Memphis,TN.

Say Whut?.......2005-01-16

I heard "Strawberries" when I was like 6 or 7 and now I've found the c.d. This is the most abstract singer I've come across in my life.

STRAWBERRIES (10/10) - The song I fell in love with. A sexy chorded raunchy sex song, good for the bedroom.

DON'T SLEEP (9/10) - A mellow hip-hop track. Don't sleep on her love that she's giving you.

WE FUNK TO QUICK (7/10) - Smooth just went folk on this track. I could see myself singing this song in the future. It's just about f**king too quick, not thinking things through.

ANYTHING I LIKE (6/10) - Yet another track that Smooth went rock/pop on. I'm not sure if this one'll grow on me.

DO YA (8/10) - Smooth comes back to the R&B in this track. Do you really love me or are you playing games.

WISHING WELL (7/10) - Smooth leaves R&B and goes country/folk again. The hook is cool but the part where she goes "Toss your coin in and you will see" isn't cute to me. She could've cleaned that up a little better.

HE THINKS SHE DON'T KNOW (9/10) - Back to R&B, Smooth sings to a video game like melody with a hot bass line and tired vocals, one of my favorites.

IT'S ON (8/10) - This song is somewhat blues/soft rock. Smooth just sings about partying. It's not that bad.

I'M IN LOVE (7/10) - This song is hilarious to me. When the hook comes and the backgrounds say "I'm in love...." And then Smooth comes in: "With another man". My personal opinion, Smooth didn't do so well in this song. She sounds stuffed up and tired. She could've done way better.

WILLING TO FIGHT (8/10) - With an electric guitar, Smooth slams back into R&B. She's willing to fight to keep her man even though he was cheating.

YOU SAID YOU LOVED ME (8/10) - Still maintaining R&B, Smooth does a ballad about how they lost touch when he said he loved her.

LOVING YOU (10/10) - Still R&B, Smooth explains to this guy that she didn't mean to turn him on.

REALITY (8/10) - Leaving R&B for the last time, Smooth goes folks/acoustic once again with the emotional and abstract track about dealing with reality.

#14: (7/10) - Just A computer love remix to "Strawberries". Pretty good.

Other than all that, Smooth isn't that bad. Give her a try.

I love smooth.......2004-12-20

This is her best cd. You can clearly see her growth as a artis on this cd. Its a step above her others. She relies on her singing more than rap and this one. I like most of the songs on her. Her best songs are the slow ones which show case her sex appel. Her and adina howard are good at this. #5,7,3,1,11,10, 13 are real good. All mellow. She is under appreciated.THat why I wrote this. Please get this.

Smooth.......2004-10-08

This singer is long forgotten. But she had a lot of talent. Smooth can sing and spit raps on this album. Some of these songs are inappropriate and a waste of time like, "We Funk to Quick", "Willing to Fight", "Don't Sleep" and "Strawberries [Computer Love Remix}". But beside that this album is flavorful with beats and funk. My favorite tracks are:

Strawberries- Better than the single.
Wishing Well- Quite profound.
He Thinks She Don't Know- Too bad the single flopped, it's the best song on the album.
You Said You Love Me- Very sultry and shows her vocal abillity.
Loving You- One of the best songs. It has funk, soul and hip hop to it. It also ver funny.
Reality- Be careful with this song. It' kind of dark, yet emotional.

Average customer rating:

Mood Jazz
perfect for a sunday morning.
Pretty Good but I got spoiled but His Later work more
Byrd in a departure
A nice addition to a jazz collection

A New Perspective
Donald Byrd
Manufacturer: Blue Note Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Black Byrd
Song for My Father
Stepping into Tomorrow
Hub-Tones
Search for the New Land

ASIN: B00000IWVW
Release Date: 1999-05-18

Tracks:

Elijah
Beast Of Burden
Cristo Redentor
The Black Disciple
Chant

Amazon.com

Blue Note seldom ventured far from the spontaneity of small-group jazz, but they put special resources into this 1963 project, letting trumpeter Donald Byrd and arranger Duke Pearson achieve some stunning results with a septet and the voices of the Coleridge Perkinson Choir. Gospel and blues influences had become more prominent in jazz through the work of Horace Silver and Cannonball Adderley, but Byrd explored the connection further here, combining the rich and wordless voices with a potent rhythm section, fluent soloists, and his own brassily declarative trumpet in an authentic and compelling way. Donald Best's bell-like vibraphone and Kenny Burrell's soulful guitar further emphasize the music's wealth of associations. The moods vary from the declamatory power of "Elijah" to the deep blues of "Beast of Burden" and the luminous hymn of Pearson's celebrated "Cristo Redentor" (a little-recognized master of jazz composition, Pearson also wrote "Idle Moments" for a Grant Green session), but the tunes are all realized with energy and feeling. The band seems to take special inspiration from the choir's carpet of sound, and tenor saxophonist Hank Mobley and pianist Herbie Hancock also make substantial contributions. The session has always sounded fantastic, but Rudy Van Gelder's remastering has added even greater luster. --Stuart Broomer

Customer Reviews:

Mood Jazz.......2006-06-08

Apart from the vocal textures, there's not a lot of inherent musical interest on this album. The "tunes" are simple musical ideas based on Dorian modes and minor blues changes, the rhythm is primarily walking 4/4, the principals (Byrd, Burrell, Mobley, Hancock) each manage to provide at least one pleasant but unremarkable solo statement. At least it's better background jazz than you'll hear these days on those so-called "contemporary jazz" stations.

As for the performance itself, it's far from perfect. There are random false starts by the vocalists as well as the instrumentalists, and individual voices among both groups occasionally stick out when they should be blending in (or one voice sings "dah-dot" while the others sing "doo-dot"). Van Gelder, moreover, is not the ideal sound engineer for a recording like this. His flat aural canvases and disregard for spatial imaging make no distinction, for example, between the volume level of a single piano note and the entire choir. With the addition of a horn like Coltrane's, with its spirit-seeking quality, and a recording respectful of space and ambiance, this session might have acquired some depth and spiritual/emotional resonance.

perfect for a sunday morning........2004-09-26

(this might duplicate the previous review, as I had tech problems here).

Donald Byrd and Duke Pearson team up again (I have Byrd's "a new perspective" with Duke Pearson at the keys, recorded 3 years before in 1960). This time, Duke Pearson leaves the keys to Herbie Hancock, and sticks to the role of arranger and composer. He wrote 2 out of the 5 songs, and Byrd the other 3.

Songs are for voice and jazz band, but the voices are treated as just instruments, and blend effortlessly with the instruments. Donald's trumpet and Hank Mobley's sax sound especially human-like in this setting (actually, to preserve the illusion, all the solos are quite restrained and paced accordingly).

The compositions have a hymnal quality which reminded me of Charlie Haden and Hank Jones' "steal away". They are mostly melancholic songs with bluesy church-y undertones. This cd will not get you to dance, but you will listen to it again when the right mood strikes.

Pretty Good but I got spoiled but His Later work more.......2002-06-20

this set isn't bad at all.He takes on a few styles here&some things work.but Compared to His Early 70's Output the Music Here doesn't have that Lasting vibe for me.the Musicianship here is sharp but the Material overal doesn't hold up to me.but I have enjoyed many of His Recordings&He has a Cool Tone in His Work.

Byrd in a departure.......2001-01-09

Byrd, who made his name in the hard-bop vein on a large number of Blue Note and Prestige releases in the '50s and '60s, makes "A New Perspective" live up to its name, particularly in light of his later rather tepid funk/R&B material in the '70s with the Blackbyrds. This release gathers together familiar Blue Note mainstays, including Hank Mobley, Kenny Burrell, and Herbie Hancock, but Byrd offers up a series of gospel-inspired tunes with his band backing the Coleridge-Perkinson Choir. The results are mostly satisfying, although at times the vocal arrangements lacked the tonal color I'd have liked.

The album offers, however, one unforgettable gem: the soaring, majestic and altogether inspiring "Cristo Redentor," one of the best compositions of the underrated pianist Duke Pearson. The tune was inspired by Pearson's sighting of the statue of Christ in the Andes, and the music seems to capture every bit of the awe Pearson undoubtedly felt when he viewed the statue. The choir begins with a deep, reverent hum that lays a base from which the soprano voicings depart. After this stirring intro, Byrd enters, sketching the theme respectfully before offering his own humble, but blues-drenched respects to the vision. Also not to be missed in the performance is Hancock's soulful accompaniment on piano. Tremendous tune, one of the select few that in my opinion capture the essence of religious devotion without any trivializing.

As for the rest of the album, well, it doesn't quite measure up to the lofty standards of "Cristo Redentor," but there are plenty of nice moments and of course some fine performances from the aforementioned musicians as well as Dave Pike on vibraphone. "Beast of Burden" is a slowly shuffling, satisfying blues; "Elijah" is a joyous shout; and "Chant" finds the choir in robust full throat.

Byrd was, for me, never quite first-tier among the trumpeters of his era. On "A New Perspective" you won't find him reaching a another level technically. Stylistically, however, this album plows some new and intriguing ground both for Byrd and for Blue Note. Recommended.

A nice addition to a jazz collection.......1999-09-18

I found this cd rather enjoyable. Donald Byrd demonstrates his ablilties and musical tastes teamed with the rest of the personnel on the disc and shows that he can put a unique touch to the various tunes, from the smooth ballad Beast of Burden to the driving, almost tribal feel of The Black Disciple with the voices. Consider this something pleasant to add to your collection, perhaps not a masterpiece, but something worth having.

Average customer rating:

One of the greatest pop albums you've never heard
Very good cd from Lisa Keith, an underrated vocalist...
Amy? Is That You?

Walkin' in the Sun
Lisa Keith
Manufacturer: Perspective Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music
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Love for the Future

ASIN: B000008H90
Release Date: 1993-08-17

Tracks:

Love Isn't Body...It's Soul
Better Than You
Love Is Alive and Well
I'm in Love
Days Like These
Love for All Seasons
World of Joy
Sunshine Daydreamin'
Closer
Love Me Like You Do
Free as You Wanna Be
True to You
Walkin' in the Sun
Adonai

Customer Reviews:

One of the greatest pop albums you've never heard.......2006-10-23

This blissful album is simply amazing. A prolific backing vocalist for a large roster of artists, she struck artistic (but not commercial) paydirt with this very special album. There are no bad songs, but recommended above others are the fun pop ditties "Love Me Like You Do" and "Free As You Wanna Be", the spiritual ballad "Adonai" and my personal favorite "Love Isn't Body, It's Soul" in which Lisa emphasizes the importance of her personality over her outward appearance. Note to L.K. if she's reading this: That is a very strong moral value to have, and while I don't want to undermine the importance of it, keep in mind that you are a beautiful, statuesque woman. Be proud of that.

Very good cd from Lisa Keith, an underrated vocalist..........2005-02-10

I discovered Lisa through Alexander O'Neal and female r&b vocalist Cherrelle. Lisa did great background vocals for each of the great vocalist mentioned before. So I was quite curious to listen Lisa's only CD and I was not dissapointed. She possess a wonderful voice and it's a shame I haven't heard anything else from her. I hope to hear something at some point from this awesome singer. I definetly reccomend this recording.

Amy? Is That You?.......2004-04-28

Amy Grant came up with a bit of a protege after her break-out success in 1991 with her "Heart In Motion" album. Lisa Keith's debut -- and only -- album could easily be an Amy Grant album. Unfortunately, that's her major problem. Keith's songwriting collaborators, producers, record label, et al, are the same as Amy Grant's.

The album opens with "Love Isn't Body... It's Soul", a borderline foray into R&B. She stresses that while some people fall in love with someone's beauty, it's what is inside that will keep that momentum going for years to come. This song is actually almost playfully sexy without shutting her out of all Christian credibility, because she emphasizes her inner beauty over the outside.

Keith definitely has the pipes to do such work as well as the mainstream-style pop that makes up most of the remainder of the album. First single "Better Than You" is an upbeat, catchy affair. It's a basic "you're the BEST" kind of song. Keith always keeps the mood light and hopeful, just like most Christian artists looking for mainstream success would do. Luckily, she did find some success. "Better Than You" became a Top 40 hit (peaking at #36 on Billboard's Hot 100) and follow-up single "I'm In Love" also found a mainstream following (#84 on Billboard's Hot 100) with it's dancy beat and ultra-positive attitude. She also tackles the ballads (like 3rd single "Love Is Alive And Well") with precision. The only time her faith comes to the foreground is the closer "Adonai". While every song has an obvious undertone that she is someone with incompromisable values, "Adonai" is the only track where she discusses her faith head-on... which will be the kicker for fans of Christian adult contemporary looking for someone who is LIKE Amy Grant, but isn't her.

Tracks:

Africana
Spirit
We Are Gonna Make It Through (Part 1)
Hold On (Change Is Comin')
Love Will Never Change
Love Train
God Cares
Hold On (Don't Let Go)
Crisis
We Are Gonna To Make It Through (Part 2)
You Can Make It If You Try
The Blackness Blues
A Spiritual Medley
So Far Away
Familiar Waters
Time For Healing
We Are Gonna Make It Through (Part 3)
Hold On (Change Is Comin') (Roger Troutman Remix)
Kwanzaa - Umoja - Uhuru

Customer Reviews:

GIMME A BREAK.......2007-06-13

Honestly dont want to knock any folks who generate good vibes and healing thoughtwaves.

Eclectic Group.......2003-02-06

The Sounds of Blackness has always been an eclectic group. They originally started out as a choir from Macalester College. The group evolved into a community choir and into the group we all know and love. In the past, the "Sounds" performed many secular songs from the black experience (i.e., "Sir Duke", "God Bless The Child" as well as sacred songs such as "Jesus Christ is the Way" and "Steal Away"). So often, vocalists are pigeonholed into singing only certain styles of music. I, personally, sing the entire spectrum. However, the message must be good and the music melodious! In fact, I am a former member of the "Sounds," so I know of what I speak!

Good CD, But Not As Good As The Others.......2002-06-08

Sounds of Blackness is well known for R&B/gospel hits such as "Optimistic" and "The Pressure" as well as many Negro spirituals. The group's first 2 CDs were the ones that brought them the most fame. In their third CD, "Time for Healing", they somewhat stray away from what they usually sing. It is possible to mistake them for a straight-out R&B group. There are great hits like "Hold On (Change is Coming)" which is my personal favorite. They also do remakes like "Love Train". I really wish that Ann Nesby was on this CD, but she decided to go solo. Oh well. That's how the music business is, I guess! Even though the group loses many great things that they had from the other CDs, it is still a great one, and I recommend it to any Sounds of Blackness fan.

A Worthy Addition to the Group's Discography.......2001-08-30

Like the ensemble's three previous albums, "A Time for Healing" features uplifting grooves, a marvelous blend of old and new, brilliant instrumentation, and harmonies that truly are heavenly. Director Gary Hines and company expertly excel on cuts like "Hold On (Change Is Comin'"), a song that owes much to the music of the late Roger Troutman, "Love Will Never Change," a mellow and compassionate tune, "God Cares," a song that should be an anthem for the faithful, and the title cut. The more traditional offering, "We Are Gonna Make It Through," soars with majesty and power while the group "gets down" with remakes of the classics "Love Train" and "You Can Make It If You Try."
The best cut, however, is "So Far Away" which begins with an awesome trumpet solo and then jumps into a Calypso-flavored rhythm featuring a sample of the 60's hit "Girl from Ipanema." One can't stay seated when hearing this one.
Notably missing is Ann Nesby, soloist for many of the group's first successes, as well as the producing team of Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. Hopefully, the trio will return for some future musical endeavors.

Energizing, invigorating, rythmic and divine !.......2000-05-23

The text and rythems on this wonderful CD have inspired me time and time again to get up, move on and rise above and beyond my own limits. I really think this is what the artists wanted and that is exactly what they have acheived - at least with me! The text is deep, wise and loving, while the music is soothing on some numbers or invigorating like a sparkling, fresh shower on others.

Tracks:

Primal
Rain
End Of The Beginning
Higher
Blue
Life And Death
Empire
Serrana
Meet Me In The Mornig

Customer Reviews:

One of the Greats.......2007-07-04

I have to say that this album is one of the greats. It expresses the mind of Jason Becker that is still going strong! Music is a form of expression explaining to people who do not understand through words. I feel that he has truly accomplished being a musician and you can definitely hear the genius in the music. He is a true inspiration. I recommend this album and any other albums of his highly!

Becker is a true God!.......2005-12-20

Not all of these songs have guitar playing on them. This doesn't stop this from being becker's best album composition-wise. This is definitely in my list of favorite albums of all time.

You would be insane not to get this!

True virtuoso.......2005-12-13

Again Jason Becker proves himself rightfully as one of the best Guitar players to date. There are few who can compare to what he managed in his few years before ALS kicked in.

ok nicsan wop.......2005-07-25

ok , clearly you might be a bit older than i am , but lets look at it this way , you know what you were getting yourself into by perchasing or listening to the perspective album or any album with shred in it . it is shred yes , its quick yes.. and as most music repeats . this whole idea of a musician " evolving " is utterly retarded .
you know the only thing that makes a band cheese are lyrics..
if you can sit there and describe a " riff " to me , and say " oh thats cheesy than you like many other people are confused to what cheesy is . and so what if there are people out there that wanna (as you call it ) " play a million notes per bar"
thats not cheesy . And if you honestly think that ANY of the NEW musicians offer ANY thing to ANY ONE WHO plays an instrument you are very mistaken .. THE ONLY and i stress the ONLY
thing that the musicians of today do is " speak to a generation " with their lyrics . if you want to write good lyrics be a poet , dont think that your a musician.
all these new musicians in the world can go F*** themselves for ever trying ot ruin what music at its best is .F*** nirvana and all the new crap that took over the music industry . hell i could sing about me and my friends and that would be " speaking to a generation . becuase there just might be some people out there that are going through the same exact thing as me and my friends . THAT is what makes music cheesy
EVOLVED MUSIC is what i think many people view as how good you sound over the years .if you sounded sloppy 5 yrs ago and couldnt pull off tricks , and now 5 yrs later you can . you have EVOLVED>>>>
DONE

Cant Stop Crying!.......2005-06-16

Jason has truley been "Born Again". This album and Jason's personal story and comments on the album cover are unbelievably inspirational. He has completely overcome his handicap in the emotional sense and it can be seen in the beauty of this album. I play it every morning on the way to work while I pray for him and all those I love. I see life in a different way now, he has added new level of joy and appreciation to my life. Please continue to create more music in the future. God bless you.

Music Review:

Music Review

Music Review

1. We Got All Night
2. See How The Love Goes
3. Cant Fall Asleep To A Lullabye
4. Special Girl
5. Fifth Avenue
6. (Its Like You) Never Left At All
7. Stereo
8. Lady With A Bluebird
9. Cinderella
10. Unconditional Love
11. Fallin Off The World