Electric Soul Show – 18th February 2009 – 105.7fm – Ipswich Town, England

I arrived at the studio with about 5 minutes to spare. However, I had already got my first two tracks in mind in which I wanted to open the show with today so I was prepared. After the initial adverts had run their course I welcomed my listeners to another Wednesday evening show.

I started the show off with “Diamond Girl” by Ryan Leslie (Released 2009 from his new debut album called Ryan Leslie). I have to say that this has an irresistible mid tempo funky groove that keeps your head nodding throughout the song. Seems to feature a really funky synthesiser riff right throughout the track. Ryan sings, Ryan Raps and I have to say Ryan delivers on this track and will make you want to rewind the tune to be able to listen to it again and again. Released in the middle of last year and was an underground hit for Ryan. Hearing it again 6 months later it still sounds good. Please click on the link below to hear the song yourself.



The next track that I selected stayed on that funky tip.“Reach out for my Soul” by Sy Smith (Released 2008 on the album called Conflicts) was the tune that had the funk vibe all the way through it, but featured a more soulful angle to it at the same time. That side of it was provide by Sy Smith and her wonderful vocals, however the drum pattern and the bassline just wanted to make you groove. There is a credible rap provided by Wes Felton half the way through this track that breaks it up just right.

A wonderful single that could be easily re-released again and it would top many music charts around the world. Have a listen to the track in question by clicking on the link below.



The next track that I was to play for my listeners I had played recently on the Electric Soul Show a couple of weeks ago. I make no apologises for doing so again. With the other two tracks that I had just played they featured a heavy dose of funk running through their veins. This track only has an infusion of soul music running through it. The track in question is called “Take me” by Teedra Moses and Raphael Saddiq (released 2004 on the album called Complex Simplicity).

I love the start of the track which involves a great fusion of orchestral sounds and acoustic guitar playing within the background. Then we are greeted with the backing vocalists within this song and Teedra Moses. Wow I have to say at this moment in time it sounds so beautiful.From around 1:40 into the track Raphael Saddiq enters the fray and sings a few lines himself. It gets even better then that because at around 2:25 of the track both vocalists(Teedra Moses and Raphael Saddiq) sing together and it’s a joy to hear. A truly beautiful song that you never get tired of hearing time and time again. It’s that good. Please have a listen to the track for yourselves and decide for yourselves.



The next track sees me dropping some Rap music which is to come from an artists called 2-Pac. Heard of him before? One my favourite tracks to come from 2-Pac was this one. “Do for love” by 2-Pac (released in the year of 1997). It samples heavily from the original which is Bobby Caldwell’s – “What you won't do for love” (From 1979). I love how 2-PAC Rhymes and lyrics are paced throughout this track. The bass line is much faster in this then the original which was done by Bobby Caldwell. I like that fact that they still incorporate parts of the original vocals from Bobby Caldwell within this Hiphop classic. It still sounds great today. Please, please have a listen to this track by clicking on the link below. You're missing out if you don't.



The next track comes two vocalists/musicians in the name of The Chestnut Brothers, from Atlanta, Georgia, Usa. I have been playing tracks from this album religiously from the back end of 2008 for my listeners who especially loved “Whole lot of you in me”(released in 2008 from the album called “Retro Soul”). It’s a mid tempo track that makes everyone of us pay attention from the opening bars of the tune. I just love the start of this track. I totally engrossed in that synth riff that they incorporate within the tune that just loops and loops and loops over and over again. However the singing of both the vocalists on this track are right on the money. Please have a listen to this track you will really like it. Click on the link below.



I decided that I was going to follow “Whole lotta you in me” by another track from the new debut album from Ryan Leslie. “Out of the blue” by Ryan Leslie (released 2009 from the album called Ryan Leslie). I’m loving this track I can tell you. Its so funky, and yet its so soulful at the same time. It does feature a Hip Hop style drum beat and bass line throughout the length of it, but this influence works well within this tune. I love the various keyboard synths sounds on this track as well as the vocals of Ryan Leslie. Not the best track on the album mind you but you just can’t help liking it. Please click on the link below to hear the whole track.



Well, time had reached for me to play the Rare Groove selection part 1 on the show. For those of you that listen in each week I need not say anything more. For those of you that are new to this well. Each week I play two sections of the Rare Groove selection. 3 songs in each part. These songs are either bonafide Rare grooves, or songs that people have simply forgotten about. (However, if you want to know what was played in this part of the show you will have to listen to the show!).

Stayed with the slow, mellow soul tip with the next track when I choose “Just me and you” by Toni, Tony, Tone (released 1990 from the movie Sound track called Boyz in the Hood). Now this is a classic. No other words can describe this. Baby making music maybe? You could call it that. However its so groovy that it more than that. Just listen to whole thing from the vocals to the music and marvel in its greatness. Please click below and listen to this classic Old school Rn’b track.



For the third time this night I decided to play another track from the new debut album from Ryan Leslie. This track in question was called “Quicksand”(released 2009 from the album called “Ryan Leslie”). I have to say it. It does sounds as if he has had help from the group called the Neptunes. It sounds so much like something they would release. It’s funky I will give it that. I love that big jamming guitar sound that is prominent all the way through the track. It seems to fit against the drums and the bass line perfectly. I love what they do three quarters of the way through the track, which is to remove that big jamming guitar and leave just the drum beat and the futuristic sounds keyboards and Ryan Leslie voice. Great idea. Have a listen to it by clicking on the link below.



I have played this song on the show on a quite a few occasion now, and I still never tire of playing it. “Life is better” by Q-tip featuring Norah Jones (released 2008 from the album called Renaissance). What a great track this is. Whether you like or dislike Hip Hop music you will love this. You can either the sublime vocals of Norah Jones or the lyrical interplay and choice of lyrics released by Q-Tip in this track. In any way you choose you win. What makes this track so enjoyable in my opinion is that its champions the funk music vibe throughout this track; and yet it once wants to lose it relationship that it has with soul music. Soul and funk combine brilliantly hear. Please listen to this track and hear for yourself here. Please click on the link below.



I didn’t realise that there was around 13 minutes left on the show to go. Wow was I having fun or what. I ended the show with the playing the second of part of the Rare Groove selection part 2 on the show. No I'm not going to tell you what I played. Listen in whenever I play live, and you will find out.

I hope that you leave any comments about the various songs that you either heard through reading this Blog page or via listening to the show when it was played live on Wednesday's. Please leave any comments here and have you say.

If you are an up and coming artist/s and you would like exposure for your music. Please leave your comments here as well so that I can get back to you. Please do not be shy. Thanks.

Electric Soul Show – 105.7 fm – 11th Feb 2009 – Ipswich Town, England

Well another Wednesday, meant another Electric Soul Show. Arrived in good time, and was in a good mood to host the show. Had a fairly good day at work you see which always helps and keeps you in a good frame work for your show.

This week I started the show with a Soul ballad classic.“Secret Garden” by Quincy Jones, Barry White, El Debarge, AL B Sure and James Ingram (released from the album called Back round the Block - 1989). What a classic and yet simple soul ballad this track is. Each singer taking turns to sing individual verses within the track. Each of us have their favourite singer on this track. Mine is Barry White, however friends of mine love James Ingram part within the song. Others state that El Debarge sounds like Michael Jackson. And of course you’ve the fans of Al B Sure who say that he was the main man in this song. I wish that Valetine's day had of fell on a Wednesday this year. This is a perfect song for such an occaision. Please click on the link below to hear the full song in all it's eternity.



I decided to stay on the ballad type soul/rnb music vibe with the next track that I selected.“Take me” by Teedra Moses feat Rapheal Saadiq(released 2004 on the album called Complex Simplicity) is just that track. Both vocalists are superb on this.

Starts of with an orchestra like arrangement to the track that gives the track a nice mood to build on. Then comes a light acoustic rhythm guitar added with a lazy sounding bass line to beef up the track. I have already mentioned the vocalist on this track are first class(Teedra Moses and Rapheal Saadiq), and so are the backing singers as well that have been employed on this as well. It’s a summer tune. But this track when dropped even in mid winter takes away the winter blues. Please click on the link/tune below to hear the song in its full entirety.



Used to hear this song all the time say from (2001 when it was first released, to around 2005). It was always on some radio station on the dial whether I turned on the radio at home, or when I was trying to find a music styled station whilst driving around in my car. Another classic slow jam for my listeners on the show. I was really spoilling them tonight. Anyway the track that I am on about is called “U got it bad” by Usher (released in 2001 from the album called 8701). Starts of with an wind effect sample going through the track and a simple acoustic guitar lick to greet us.

Then the drum line bassline and Usher’s voice are added to the mix, and there we have it. Brilliance. Usher really does put every thing into this song when he drops his vocals on this track. You feel that this song lyrics really did happen in his life? Well only he can tell. Half way through the track a Rock like guitar solo is given life and is makes the song sound even better. I can go on and on about this track, but just listen t to it, and hear if for yourself by clicking on the link below.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=15bWP1O-bK0

The next track that I played was this.“Only you by Jill Scott (released in 2007 from the album called “The Real Thing” (Words And Sounds Vol.3) Now this track is funky. However it still has that soul ballad like approach to it. Slow to mid tempo tune which was needed as I felt that the show was gearing to be too one paced.

I love the bass line and drum pattern on this. It sounds funky and yet hypnotic all at the same time. I also like the simple piano riff that goes through out the length of the track, and the backing vocals on this. And remember we do have Jill Scott’s lead vocals on this which are sublime, you have a track that stands out on the album. Please click on the link below and hear it all for yourself. Ok?



The next track is a tune that I thought would do really well in 2008. It didn’t do that well as I expected though. “House on a beach” by Glen Lewis(released in 2008) is the song that I am going on about. Originally this song was made by Floss and produced by Ryan Leslie in 2007. It looks like they sold the rights to Glen Lewis or something. Or has he done a cover version of the same tune? Sounds like this song has sampled “Sexual healing” by Marvin Gaye right at the start of the track or is it my ears. This tune is slow to Mid tempo in the groovability stakes, and yet it sounds so summery. I love the light drum and bass lines that have been employed on this track. I also love the various lovely sounding echoing keyboards that have been employed on this track as well. They work well. Glen's voice seems prefect for this type track, nice and light and whispery sounding to boot. Please have a listen for yourselves by clicking on the link below.



Well, time had reached for me to play the Rare Groove selection part 1 of the show. For those of you that listen in each week I need not say anything more. For those of you that are new to this well. Each week I play two sections of the Rare Groove selection. 3 songs in each part. These songs are either bonafide Rare grooves, or songs that people have simply forgotten about. (However, if you want to know what was played in this part of the show you will have to listen to the show!)

Mid temp tune this. What I am I on about? Well the track called “I’m free” by Terry Dexter (released from the album called Listen on 2008) that I played directly after the Rare Groove selection. At first when I first heard this song. I didn’t like it. But after the 3 time of hearing it I fell in love with it. It sounds as if it could be used promoting an item via a TV commercial. However it’s soulful, and wonderfully sung by Terry Dexter, and I just love the music that accompanies the voice on this track. Don’t just take my word for it. Click on the link below and listen for yourselves.



The next tune up was an up and coming artist that I have played on a couple of occaissions on this show. I played this tune on the show last week as well you know. Victoria Lockwood is her name, hailing from my hometown of Ipswich, based in England. Victoria’s track is called “Pure Love” (still a undecided release date?) and the track starts of with Victoria repeating the line “This is going out” together with simply constructed keyboard chords. Then a lazy sounding hip-hop drum line is added to the track. Eventually the bass line and her singing the first verse of the song comes to the fore.

When the chorus does come up, Victoria’s voice is strengthen by the fact that backing singers are singing with her on this on this track as well. Victoria reminds me of an artist that is forgotten somewhat today. I have to say on this track Victoria reminds me of the singer called Misty Oldland. Misty who is from London, England, released a track called “Got me a feeling” which became an Underground cult classic to the soul fans based in the Uk at the time (1993). This song by Victoria slightly reminds of “Got me feeling”(1993), and I feel that if pushed in the right direction it will go places. I love Victoria voice on this record. I am going to say that her voice is “Organic Soul”. That’s the term that I am going to use for Victoria. Please have a listen to this track by clicking on the link below that will take you to her website address where you will be able to hear this track and others.

http://www.myspace.com/lockysmusic

Decided on changing the flavour and vibe on this show at this moment in time. So Lovers Rock Reggae was in order to be played I thought I haven’t played much of it in a while and now was the perfect opportunity to do so. The track that I played was this one “The Very Best” by Intense,England(released in 1988). What a sweet tune this is, Lovers Rock Reggae or not. It’s not that difficult to play or create musically, but it’s the emotion and summery vibes that you get from this track that makes it stands out.

A simple drum and bass line pattern within this song which together with a simple rhythm guitar and a keyboard riff allows the lead singer and the other singers to put the cherry on the cake in regards to the sweet vocals that are dropped on this track.Just have a listen to the track and you will see what I mean. Please click on the link below.



If we are talking about Lovers Rock Reggae then we have to put this within the top 5 best Lovers Rock tune ever made. The track that I am on about is called “Its true” by Donna Rhodan, England(released in 1981). What makes this so special in regards the Lovers Rock fans circle is that it did allow the music of Lovers Rock to incorporate other musical themes such as Jazz. Not just the Soul music vibe which is always evident within Lovers Rock circles. Donna was 16 years old when this tune was created, and which she wrote herself. When you the first bars of the tune play out your think that it could be a Soul/jazz standard that you are about to hear. Then the customary bass and drum pattern within a Reggae music style is heard throughout the song. The very girly like vocals shine through on this song, and makes you think of summer. You need to hear this song to hopefully capture the full flavour of things. Please click on the link below.



The next song was on the roaster was by an up and coming artist called Kemi Lake from London, England. I played this last week as it so happens. I thought why not play it again this week? I’m always on the look out for up and coming talent (if those are the words to use on this occasion) in regards to this show. Been in contact with Kemi over the last couple of weeks in regards to finding out all about her via her my space website. I liked the track of hers called “Come into my life” (2008 release).

The tracks starts of with a flute like riff, then all the other instruments are gradually added over a short space time (i.e. the drums, bass line and handclaps, etc), and then finally Kemi’s voice. It works and would sound great in today’s modern dance floors. The background singers that are employed are added in all of the correct places that enhance the song even further. Have a listen to this track and make your own judgement. Please go to Kemi’s own my space website to hear this song and a few others there. Just click on the link below.

http://www.myspace.com/kemilake

Now this was just another funky tune that I decided to play this evening. The track in question is “Black Rose” by Hill Street Soul featuring Teish O’Day, England (released in 2008 on the album called “Black Rose”). I have to say the bass line and drum line are just delicious on this. Makes you want to groove just on hearing those two instruments alone. Hilary Mwelwa and Teisha O’Day vocals on this track are so good. In fact they are spot on. They are so soulful. The keyboards and the faint guitar lick in the background brings out the sweetness in the track as well. If this was given proper air time. It would create a big stir in the USA. But will the Radio stations do this song any justice? I fear that they will not. But this is a great track. Please have a listen to it by clicking on the link below this will take you to her myspace website. Where you will be able to hear this song.

http://www.myspace.com/hilstsoul

Next track was this "That's what I am talking about"(2008 release) by Pete Rock featuring Rell. A Rnb tune with a Rap provided by Pete Rock half the way through the song. It’s a nice tune this. Rn'b music with a creditable rap going through it which works. I haven't really heard a bad song yet from Rell, even though this song belongs to Pete Rock (as its of his latest album called "New York Finest" - 2008 release). Nice and Soulful but also features a nice funky mid tempo groove at the same time. A good tune to start of the show with I thought. Please have a listen to it via click on the link provided for you below. You will find the song within his Myspace website.

http://www.myspace.com/peterock

Well, I ended the show with the playing the second of part of the Rare Groove selection part 2 on the show. No I'm not going to tell you what I played. Listen in, and you will find out.

Well, time is now up.....and I'm away until next Wednesday show. If you want to leave any comments that I have made about any tracks that were played; or any stories that I mentioned relating to the tracks as well. Then please add your own personal comments below via clicking on the "Comments button" OK? Don't be afraid to have your say here.

Electric Soul Show - 4th February 2009 - 105.7fm - Ipswich Town, England

Made it in time, this time. Not like last week where I had seconds to go before I was live on air. In this more relaxed state of mind I started the show of with this track. It was an Rn’b and Hip Hop combo type number called “Take off the blues” by Foreign Exchange featuring Darien Brockington (2008 release from the album called Leave it all behind”). This was from their latest album release in their follow up to the hugely successful debut album release called "Connected"(2004). That album release alone wowed the Hip hop world with its melodic and soulful take up on how Hip Hop music could progress to. I have been playing various tunes from the album since it was released in October 2008.

I decided on playing the tune called "Take of the blues" from the album, which will surprise many on hearing it, as it’s a really good Rn'b cut. Once again it has that slow to mid tempo groove about it. But I got to say I just love Darien Brockington voice on this.

The right man for the right song I think. He is helped along by some backing vocals on this track. But I think the inclusion of a horn section within the song at around 2 minutes and seven seconds into the tune is a mark of genius. Already in the Usa they have gained a lot of interest over this song already. Don’t just take my word for it. Have a listen to the tune yourselves by clicking on the link its self.



The next tune that was up was a slow to mid temp tune in regards of Rn’b music that I decided to drop. “Could it be”(2007 release) by L Michele was the tune in question. I have had this tune since 2007 when L Michelle sent this over to me to showcase her talent way back in 2007. However instead of using a funk music vibe throughout this track, Michele decided on following a Soulful music approach instead. Good thinking I thought as she does have wonderful vocal talent. She is helped on this track vocally with some equally impressive backing vocals. Have a listen to the track that was done live via the link below.



I decided to flip the switch early on in this week show and play some Soulful and Deep House music for my listeners. I have to say it doesn’t come better than this. “Waterfalls” by Afterhours (Released 1991 on Strictly Rhythm records,USA) is the track in question. Wow this is such a nice record. An instrumental so you have to pay a little more attention to it. This is really is a Jazz/Soul record but with a House music beat to it in simple terms. You can hear the standard four to the floor house music drum line going through it. However, its not that which capture’s your heart. It’s the flute playing, Rhodes piano and plus all the other fine touches that have been added to this track that make it sound so sublime. It really does sound like a track that should be played after hours. So relaxing and so nice this tune is. I am so glad that I have this tune personally myself. Please have a listen to tune below yourselves by click on the music link below.



Once again I decided on stay via the Soulful House tip with one more tune; and another wicked tune to boot. “Treat me right” by Kim English and John Cutler (released 1998, USA) is the tune in question. The four to the floor House beat is ever present throughout this track. However it’s that soul chord progression and the funky sounding bass line in the background that makes you pay attention. In come features like the melodic piano line and Kim English voice which makes you want to smile. I just love this tune. I hope that whenever you think of House music you will think of tunes like this. Sunny, bright, happy sounding and carefree. I just couldn’t understand why this never charted back in the late 1990’s. It’s such a good tune even now. Please have a listen to tune by clicking on the link directly below, and notice how you can’t keep smiling. It’s that good a tune.



The next song was on the roaster was by an up and coming artist called Kemi Lake from London, England. I played this last week as it so happens. I thought why not play it again this week? I’m always on the look out for up and coming talent (if those are the words to use on this occasion) in regards to this show. Been in contact with Kemi over the last couple of weeks in regards to finding out all about her via her my space website. I liked the track of hers called “Come into my life” (2008 release).

The tracks starts of with a flute like riff, then all the other instruments are gradually added over a short space time (i.e. the drums, bass line and handclaps, etc), and then finally Kemi’s voice. It works and would sound great in today’s modern dance floors. The background singers that are employed are added in all of the correct places that enhance the song even further. Have a listen to this track and make your own judgement. Please go to Kemi’s own my space website to hear this song and a few others there. Just click on the link below.

http://www.myspace.com/kemilake

Another song from the group called Cool Million and from their album called “Going out tonight”(released in September, 2008). Yes I have been playing various tunes from the album over a period of at least a month now. However this week I decided to play the tune called "Closier" by Cool Million featuring Diana Marsh. Such is he depth of this album I feel that I could be playing even many more tunes from this set over a number of weeks on the Electric Soul Show. This such a nice tune. It reminds me of the early to mid 1980’s. It got that vibe and groove all over it that makes me start reminding myself of group such as Dayton, Midnight Star, Kashif or Kleer or even our very our Loose Ends. I really like Diane Marsh's voice. Her voice is spot on for this type of tune. It’s bumpy and groovy all at the same time, and yet makes you think of 80’s Soul music. Sharp syths sounding keyboard, bumpy bass lines and 80’s style percussion. Please have a listen to this tune youselves will like it. Please click on the link below.



The next tune up was another up and coming artist to be played on the show. I played this tune on the show last week as well you know. Victoria Lockwood is her name, hailing from my hometown of Ipswich, based in England. Victoria’s track is called “Pure Love” (still a undecided release date?) and the track starts of with Victoria repeating the line “This is going out” together with simply constructed keyboard chords. Then a lazy sounding hip-hop drum line is added to the track. Eventually the bass line and her singing the first verse of the song comes to the fore.

When the chorus does come up, Victoria’s voice is strengthen by the fact that backing singers are singing with her on this on this track as well. Victoria reminds me of an artist that is forgotten somewhat today. I have to say on this track Victoria reminds me of the singer called Misty Oldland. Misty who is from London, England, released a track called “Got me a feeling” which became an Underground cult classic to the soul fans based in the Uk at the time (1993). This song by Victoria slightly reminds of “Got me feeling”(1993), and I feel that if pushed in the right direction it will go places. I love Victoria voice on this record. I am going to say that her voice is “Organic Soul”. That’s the term that I am going to use for Victoria. Please have a listen to this track by clicking on the link below that will take you to her website address where you will be able to hear this track and others.

http://www.myspace.com/lockysmusic

Well, time had reached for me to play the Rare Groove selection part 1 of the show. For those of you that listen in each week I need not say anything more. For those of you that are new to this well. Each week I play two sections of the Rare Groove selection. 3 songs in each part. These songs are either bonafide Rare grooves, or songs that people have simply forgotten about. (However, if you want to know what was played in this part of the show you will have to listen to the show!)

The next tune up on the show was one that I had played previously about two to three weeks ago. I have to say that this tune is getting enormous amounts of attention since it came out on promo to us here in the Uk during the latter stages of 2008. The tune in question is called “Amorous” by Jesse Boykins 3 (2009 release I believe, USA). Slow, soulful and sexy is what I like to describe this tune as. An acoustic guitar sets the pace, which is armed with a great selection of jazz chords in abundance, which makes this tune sound even dreamier then, possible. (I believe the guitarist name on this track is called Steve Wyreman if you would like to know?) The soft drum pattern style and lazy sounding bass line in the background adds even more weight to this to this effect. Then Jesse Boykin’s voice cuts in. Equally lazy and yet summer sounding all at the same time which makes you want to turn up the radio volume even more to hear this classic. Reminds me a little of Raheem De Vaughan when he came out with the album called “The Love Experience” back in 2004 via the track called “You”. It got that immediate feeling about if you heard that track? Please click on this track to hear more of this track there, and few others more.



Well I can’t believe that this next track came out 4 years ago. The track that I am now commenting on is called “No more tears by Teedra Moses (released 2005 on the album called Complex Simplicity, USA). It sounds as if it’s only just come out. I wish it had have done. It’s really well rounded and sung. Everything about is great. I feel that more women in the audience will love this more then anyone. Just listen to the lyrics.

Love the reverb effect that is going on in this track. Slow to Mid temp tune, but the bas line is funky, there’s a funky sounding trumpet going on in the background, and of course there’s Teedra’s voice and her backing singers that make this a delight to listen to. Please have a listen to this. Another nice track. Please click on the link below.



The next track was made in 1992. But it has already secured its self within the halls of the rare groove temples. What I am harbouring on about? Well the track called “We got one” by Matt Covington(1992 release) is what I’m on about. Sounds as if it were made in the late 1970’s or early 1980’s; but no it’s definitely made in 1992. I just love the horn section riff in this, which you can just hear in the background. Also I love that lazy sounding bass line and drum pattern together with some orchestration that makes this track stand out even better. But most of all its the voice of Matt Covington that brings the tune out to the max. Wow. Well don’t just stand there. Click on the link below to hear the whole track. It’s that nice.



Time was now racing ahead for me to play The Rare Groove selection Part 2 of the show. I had 13 minutes left to play this as well. It was a race against time to get them in this week. I’ve mentioned earlier on within this same report that each and every week I play 3 songs from yester-year or bonafide rare grooves. However, if you want to hear them then please listen into the show so that you can hear them.

Well that was it for this week. If you listened to the show for the first time then I hope that you will continue to listen in next week. I’ll have more tunes for you. If you have any comments that you wish to make about anything that I have mentioned in this weeks show; or any of the artist/s that I have managed to put down on this week blog. Please leave your comments down on this site. I would love to hear them. Please don't be shy. Just click on the "Comments button" OK? Don't be afraid to have your say here.

If you are an up and coming artists who would like to have their material played on this show. Please get in touch. Just click on the "Comments button" OK? Don't be afraid to have your say here.

re: Electric Soul Show - 28th January 2009 - Ipswich Town, England - www.icrfm.co.uk

Electric Soul Show – 28th January 2009 – www.icrfm.co.uk

I was a bit late arriving into the studio this week, but made it with minutes to spare so I went straight into my tracks. The track up on the platter so to speak was called “I told myself” by Dionyza(2008 release from the album called “Quite like me”).The album was released on the 23rd December 2008 to be precise. Already this single has been released as the album first official single, and I from all reports its has done remarkably well for the new Rn’b and soul star. Played this last week as well and it seems to be capturing quite a few people imagination. It has a beat and a groove that reminds me of Hip-hop music. However the chords and melody and voice of Dionyza all give it that soul flavour. Hip Hop soul? Yes this is and it works. Dionyza previously enjoyed success as a studio veteran, singing backup for Babyface, Christina Aguilera, and John B.She also performed on the High School Musical 1 and 2 soundtracks, but younger fans may best know her from the cartoon series Bratz — she provides the singing voices for the characters “Sasha” and “Jade.” Have a listen to this cracking track by clicking on the link below. See what you think?



The next artist that I was about to play is so underrated and never seems to get that elusive chart hit. Angie Stone is her name and what a soulful voice that she has. The track in question from her this evening is called “Wish I Didn't Miss You”(Released in 2002 on the album called Mahogany Soul). A large portion of this song samples Bob James’s “Jamaica Farewell” in it composition. However, its so well done that you get totally immersed in this track and never give it a thought. The singing by Angie is spot on, and the lyrics if you gave them more thought mean something. Slow to mid-tempo groove and yet you will feel refreshed listening to her in full voice. One of today’s great Soul and Rn’b vocalists. Please click on the link below and listen to this track in full.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H5qmQwImP0Q

The next track up was “Computer Love” was by an artist called Maskerade (2008). I played this track last week and I decided to do the same this week. This is a more traditional and up to date sound of today’s current Rn’b scene. This sounds like a track that could have been made for Donnell Jones. It’s got that slow to mid tempo that Donnell excels in. soft drum pattern and bass line, even softer like keyboards melodies and handclaps (or it sounds like it) make you immediately listen to this tune. Then Maskerade voice kicks in. He sounds a bit like another current day Rn’b singer that I have loved over the years, That singer is called Rell; remember him? Anyway Maskerade voice is paced just right over a delicious groove. And what a voice he has. Just lovely. He is helped along with great backing vocals on this track as well. Instead of me nearly fainting over this track. Please have a listen to it by click on the link below.

computer love - maskerade

The next single from me in regards to the Electric Soul Show was by Akon with his track called “Clap”(2008). I have played this track on a few occasions before on this very show. It’s a Nice slow to mid temp Rn’b tune that seems as if it took from a very similar journey on a tune that came out last year called “Click, Click, Click” by Nasri (2007). There is a story going around on the Internet that Akon bought the rights to this single from Nasri who sung it first. Whoever song it is now I have to say its brilliant. I haven’t heard the Nasri version if its out there. But type of Rn’b cut is right up my street. It starts off like it has an orchestra of strings. Then it’s added to with a piano like syth riff running through the track, which is infectious. Then Akon voice jumps in. I have say this that certain people’s voices fit certain tracks. And I have to say this is the case with Akon. The drum pattern is Hip-hop ish and funky at the same time. i dedicated this track out to Diane Rose,from Woodbridge,Suffolk, England, who had e-mailed into say that she wanted a track played for her from Akon. Please click on the link given to you below so that you can listen to the track.



I decided on playing some Hip Hop Music within the show at this moment in time. Been slacking of as late in regards to this type of music, and wanted to readdress the balance. With that in mind I choose this track to be my next track within the show. In fact I have played this before in regards to this show. The song in question is “Feels Good” by Naughty by Nature featuring 3LW (2002 release). And what a cracking good tune this is. Sounds very Rn’b, and to be fair it is. However, instead of the tune being sung 60% of the time, it’s the other way around here.The Rappers(Treach and the boys) take the responsibility here with the Rn’b group (Three little women – 3LW) singing the chorus in great effect. This is a real nice bumpy song that works well on the dance floor, or on the Radio. I love this tune. Please listen to the tune yourselves by clicking on the link below.



The next song was by an up and coming artist called Kemi Lake from London, England. I’m always on the look out for up and coming talent (if those are the words to use on this occaision) in regards to this show. Been in contact with Kemi over the last couple of weeks in regards to finding out all about her via her my space website. I liked the track of hers called “Come into my life” (2008 release).
The tracks starts of with a flute like riff, then all the other instruments are gradually added over a short space time (i.e. the drums, bass line and handclaps, etc), and then finally Kemi’s voice. It works and would sound great in today’s modern dance floors. The background singers that are employed are added in all of the correct places that enhance the song even further. Have a listen to this track and make your own judgement. Please go to Kemi’s own my space website to hear this song and a few others there. Just click on the link below.

http://www.myspace.com/kemilake

Next track I decided to go back in time. “Let’s stay together” by Al Green (released in 1971). What more can be said then has already been said before about this track. Soul music with a capital S I have to say. Al reached one of his musical career high spots when he put this song out all those years ago. It still sounds as powerful then as it does when it’s played today. Please listen to his voice and how emotional it sounds even today. Brilliant. Please click on the link below to hear this song again.



The next tune up was another up and coming artist to be played on the show. Victoria Lockwood is the name, hailing from my hometown of Ipswich, based in England. Victoria’s track is called “Pure Love” (still undecided release date?) and the track starts of with Victoria repeating the line “This is going out” together with simply constructed keyboard chords. Then a lazy sounding hip-hop drum line is added to the track. Eventually the bass line and her singing the first verse of the song comes to the fore.

When the chorus does come up, Victoria’s voice is strengthen by the fact that backing singers are singing with her on this on this track as well. Victoria reminds me of an artist that is forgotten somewhat today. I have to say on this track Victoria reminds me of the singer called Misty Oldland. Misty who is from London, England, released a track called “Got me a feeling” which became an Underground cult classic to the soul fans based in the Uk at the time (1993). This song by Victoria slightly reminds of “Got me feeling”(1993), and I feel that if pushed in the right direction it will go places. I love Victoria voice on this record. I am going to say that her voice is “Organic Soul”. That’s the term that I am going to use for Victoria. Please have a listen to this track by clicking on the link below that will take you to her website address where you will be able to hear this track and others.

http://www.myspace.com/lockysmusic

Well, time had reached for me to play the Rare Groove selection part 1 of the show. For those of you that listen in each week I need not say anything more. For those of you that are new to this well. Each week I play two sections of the Rare Groove selection. 3 songs in each part. These songs are either bonafide Rare grooves, or songs that people have simply forgotten about. (However, if you want to know what was played in this part of the show you will have to listen to the show!)

As the last throes of the last song within the Rare Groove selection was finishing. I had already decided on playing some 80’s soul like influenced music from the group called “Cool Million”.The track in question was called “Musiq” (released from the album called “Going out tonight”). Reminds you very much of groups like Kleer and Kasif from back in the day. Bass Synthesiser,simply constructed drumbeat, and various keyboards make this sound so 1980’s.The vocalist on the track called Jahah has himself had underground success throughout 2006 to the present day. On this track though I felt that he sounded great. It works. I like the fact that he is backed only in the chorus with backing singers that brings the vocals to the fore in general. Please have a listen to this group new album via click on their website below. The link is directly below. Just click on it please!

http://www.myspace.com/coolmillionproductions

The next track is has great sways of funk within it, but the soul within the track shines through. What am I referring to? Well the track in question is called “Honey” by Erkah Badu(released on the album called "New Amerykah: Part One [4th World War - 2008). I love this track. It’s so funky. And yet it has the enough Soul within in to allow the soul music lover to appreciate it as well. It’s a slow to mid tempo tune that makes you feel that everything was lazily put together. However, it’s that lazy groove that makes you like it even more. The bass line and drum pattern work so well together. But it’s that electronic keyboard riff which began at the start of the track and continues all the way through it that keep your attention firmly focused. Erkah’s voice is prefect for this track. It really is. And we are treated to backing singers that enhance her voice even better.
Gets the thumbs up from me. Please click on the link below to hear this great single. You will not be sorry.



One more tune before the Rare Groove Selection Part 2. This week I decided to go with Donnell Jones featuring Mike Jones (release July 2008). The track is called “Don’t trip”. Yet another tune that is so funky, and yet incorporates a tremendous amount of soulful vibe throughout the song at the same time. If this is modern day Rn’b, then more please.Donnell Jones is in fine voice on this track I can tell you. He is the major Soul element on this track over a rough bass line and drum pattern. His voice is always so silky smooth and staggers believe that he struggles to get big charts hits these days. The keyboards sounds rides well over this rough drum and bass like tune. The rapper Mike Jones breaks up the tune well with he’s creditable rap versus, as you find yourselves nodding your head to this track. One not to miss. In fact please click on the link below to hear the track yourselves.



Well, I ended the show with the playing the second of part of the Rare Groove selection part 2 on the show. No I'm not going to tell you what I played. If you want to hear them then please listen into the show so that you can hear them.

The last track of the evening I decided to stay with Donnell Jones again. To say that I just like the artist is an understatement. For me he is the best of today’s current Rn’b vocalist around. So may like to differ, but he always, always seems to bring out the right track at the right time. Anyway I fished out the track called “I’m gonna be” by Donnell Jones (released from the album called “Journey of a Gemini” – 2006).The start of the tune is just wonderful. The dreamy like keyboard jazz chord progression aided with Donnell’s whispered like vocals sets this song up well. Then the Hip hop drum and bass pattern kicks in, and really makes you say,
“Yeah this is a tune”. I have to say as Donnell sings certain phrases and vocal mannerisms make him so like Michael Jackson.
I know that many Soul fans have mentioned this before, but on this track I can see what they are getting at. He does sound like Michael at times. But this doesn’t take away from how good a single this is. Even when the backing ground singers come into the tune, it seems to get even better. Slow to mid tempo tune that works on all levels. Wow, what a track from the Donnell Jones. Please have a listen to this tune you will love it. Just click on the link below.