The Shame, The Embarrassment...Vindication=Earth Wind & Fire!

"You will find, peace of mind, if you look way down in your heart and soul..." That's The Way of The World - Earth Wind & Fire

This is just shameful, I should really be ashamed of myself.  There is no excuse I know, but I will still try my best to come up with a good one.  Hmmm...thought about it...and nope, sorry - nothing.  Alright, here it is again, with my tail in between my legs - I'M SORRY!!

As you can see by the above date, I had good intentions.  However today is Thursday, no you are not loosing it.  So it's been about a week and change and I have left my page barren like Old Mother Hubbard's cupboard.  I am surprised I still have readers.  I know there is no Monday Madness to redeem myself, however I figured if I left some video and a little write up of my time with Earth Wind & Fire, I will be vindicated.  

So as of now, it has been 11 days since I saw Earth Wind & Fire at Casino Rama.  I still do not understand why a place like Casino Rama would have such prominent acts at their venue.  But then again, we all understand the ploy of drawing in the patrons so that they can spend all of their hard earned money at the casino slot machines.  And another point to mention - they do have a concert hall, a really nice one actually.  I just shake my head at the fact that everyone has to drive 2 hours (from Toronto) and maybe longer from other surrounding areas to get to Orillia.  Anywho, that is where I was driven to for this show.  So enough of the ranting and on about the show.

Just a side note: Apology from the jump: these vids did not come out too clear.  

Many people have asked me how come I don't take longer clips of songs for your listening pleasure.  To be honest, the reason is - I can't stay still long enough.  It's bad enough that there is excessive shaking for the 21 to 40 seconds of the chorus that I do tape.  However, you try standing still taping "Boogie Wonderland" while it is blaring in your ears.  Unless you are dead, there is no way that you cannot move to that funk.  And people, I am a gal who likes to shake her ass.

Our seats were not that great compared to my usual concert seat selection.  That would be because I found out about the show last minute and my girl and I were quite happy to take what we got.  And thank god we did, because both shows ended up being sold out.  It was a great show from beginning to end and I was pretty much taken aback from how good they sounded.  Phillip Bailey can still hit those high notes like it ain't a joke.  The last time I saw him perform was on a tribute show on BET I believe it was (trust me it was a long time ago, because that channel is not listed as one of my favorites in my daily viewing pleasure) and he sort of missed the note he was trying to hit.  Therefore at his attempt at the concert, I was getting ready for a few cracks and shrills.  But much to my delight, he hit every which one of those notes.  Here, listen for yourself:

"Boogie Wonderland"

There was a great duet by Phillip Bailey and Ralph Johnson midway through the show.  Phillip on vocals and percussion and Ralph on drums.  It was amazing and of course, I was so entranced by the whole thing I have no vid - sorry.  HOWEVER, I did manage to get a segment of the show that I labelled "grown folk" music.  It just blew my mind and I got to thinking about the intricacies of a band.  Each person has to be able to stand out on their own, yet at the same time come together as one and blend in seamlessly as a group.  Amazing.  

Bobby Burns Jr making his trumpet cry for mercy.

And Blogger is playing the ass with me yet again, so I am not able to post my other vids or pics.  I guess 2 vids out of 5 is better than nothing at all.

I think the only complaint that I have is that I did not hear neither of my favorite slow tracks.  They skipped over "Can't Hide Love" (how do you skip over that?!) and "Love's Holiday."  Two EW&F gems!  But hey, I am still living and unfortunately they can't play all of their hits.  Earth Wind & Fire did what they came to do and did it well.  After I lost my hard earned money at the slot machines, breaking my casino winning streak - it was time to get the hell outta dodge.  I had a great time and who knows, I just might find my tail back at Casino Rama again for another concert.  

You can check out my full concert review on Earth Wind & Fire here, at Soultracks.com

Flashback of the day: Seeing that I did not get to hear my jam, here it is for your and my listening pleasure.

See y'all soon (ah promise!!!)...

Tha Connoisseur 

Happy Born Day To Moi...

"Want to see an exhibition, better do it now before you get too old.  'Cause we're the party people night and day, livin' crazy that's the only way..."  Michael Jackson - Off The Wall

And that my friends, is exactly how I plan to do it up this Memorial Day weekend, because today (being Friday, since I wrote this late Thursday night) is the day that I give thanks for another year of life.  The big man upstairs is good all the time, all the time he is good.  A day of reflection on the things I have done to get to where I am today and things I need to do to continue on my path.  It is a run down of the good, the bad, the stupid and the ugly.  A day to thank my Mom, Dad (I miss you), siblings, family and friends, because they all are a huge part of the person that I have become.  A day to say THANK YOU to all of those who I am blessed to have in my life, to those who test me and cause me to get ignorant on the daily and to those who have been like an anvil, hanging around bringing the heavy vibes.  I mean after all, we do need balance.  What would we do without the haters?  So all in all, I would like to say Happy Birthday to all my May people, Happy Birthday to all my Geminis and Happy Birthday to me!

On that note, I had to do it up right today for the album of the week.  It would be absolute blasphemy if I did not do a write up on the album that means more to me than life itself.  This is my favorite album of all time and I am sure many of you out there feel the same as well...

My friend Chris Rizik, publisher of Soutracks wrote a piece on the anniversary of Thriller and what it means to us.  In his article, he stated, "I'd argue that Off The Wall was front to back his greatest release."  And let me tell you, I wholeheartedly agree with that statement.  Qunicy and Michael set out to make a good album, yet delivered a masterpiece.  In their eyes, it may not be Thriller, but in my eyes it may have well been.  I remember the day I received this album like it was yesterday.  My aunt in Brooklyn went out and purchased the album and mailed it to me in Montreal by express mail, for my birthday gift.  Yes I waited all the way 'til May to get it even though it was released in August, I had no perception or concept of time at blah blah years old!  So on May 23rd 1980, this album was mailed to me and there I was in my glee, playing the album over and over again all day long.  My mom was Michael-Jacksoned-out by the end of the day, but she still sat and sang or hummed every song with me (that's what mommies do).  And all I could do was sit and stare at my album jacket full spread on the floor in awe, wishing that I could be next to Michael in the picture with his arm around me.  And oh the hypnotizing effect those glowing socks had!  I still believe that the lyrics to all of the songs on the album are etched into my psyche and there they will remain.  Even though "PYT" from Thriller is my favorite pick me up song, it just doesn't have the same heartwarming effect as "It's The Falling In Love" with Patti Austin.  Michael had your ass in a frenzy dancing nonstop starting with "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough", then you chill a bit with "Rock With You" and then had your pulse going again with "Workin' Day And Night" and "Get On The Floor" back to back.  It was insane!  Then they decide to take it down a notch with "Off The Wall", listening to him blackmail his chick on "Girlfriend" and then having you want to console him on "She's Out Of My Life" (maybe because of the blackmailing?) And just when you started to feel sorry for his ass because his girl left him, he ups the ante with "I Can't Help It" and "It's The Falling In Love" and then you drink your Redbull so that you can ride out to "Burn This Disco Out".  Now is that brilliance or what?

Off The Wall went on to become the third best selling album in 1980, the best selling r&b album of that year and believe it or not only garnered Michael one stinking Grammy.  Surprising, I know.  I know that Grammy's are the awards that are given to you by your peers, but really, I prefer the one's that come from the fans.  It's just too bad that they come in the guise of an American Music Award.  Anyhow, this album was graced by the likes of amazing writers, producers and singers of our time.  Paul McCartney, Rod Temperton and Stevie Wonder's writing skills,  Randy Jackson's technique, Patti Austin's vocals, David Foster and Quincy Jones' magic and these are just to name a few–but name it, they were there doing what they all do best.  And the end result is nothing short of a piece de resistance.  Of course I have a copy of the album on CD, but my album copy, the sentimental copy, has seen the best of times and the worst of times.  It is a bit battered since Michael had to dance with me all the time, but the album jacket has taken a lickin' and is still hanging on.  Off The Wall is the number one album in my collection and there is no other album that will ever take its place–believe that.

So the flashback of the day is OF COURSE Michael like we love to remember him– a dark skinned, slim, woman loving, dancing fool.  We just couldn't get enough of him...but honestly again, we miss you Michael!

MICHAEL JACKSON - DON'T STOP TIL YOU GET ENOUGH

Have a safe and wonderful long weekend...I know I will!

Tha Connoisseur 

All I Need To Get By Is Music!

"You know it's funky, funky, funky 'cause you heard it from hearsay, a jam that you love that be gettin' no airplay..."  LL Cool J - Booming System

Yesterday was a day of HTML, writing and most of all studying for my upcoming exam on Saturday.  Ahhh the perils and incredulity of school–thank god it will be over in 4 days.  So since my brain was slowly turning into silly putty and every second word looked like "the", I decided to treat myself and get my mind off of school and other things.  I FINALLY took my tail to Harlem's Shrine World Music Venue and visited my ladies from One Nation Under The Soul Shack (ONUTSS)–Pam and Detrel.  Last night they had a listening party for 3 great soul acts that, as my friend LL said above, don't be getting no airplay.  And it's a damn shame too, because these artists are phenomenal in their own right. The Triple Threat bill consisted of Heston, Taniq and Rahbi (pronounced Robbie). Don't fret, I didn't forget you!  I have plenty of pics and goodies to share.

Heston, who made it here on Saturday I believe, without his luggage (we know how unpredictable airlines can be), was very happy to receive the delivery of his belongings before he went on stage.  Heston's music has become one of my new favorite things.  This man's voice is quite reminiscent of Maxwell, with the haunting veracity of Bob Marley.  Sensual, sexy, calm yet packs a punch lyrically just like Marvin Gaye.  Not to mention he is a sweet humble dude with a beautiful smile.  He reminds me of family really, and it cannot get any more comfortable than that.  His song, "Good Morning America" is a poignant track on his album Storyteller that he shared with us last night.  Here is a little clip:

  

My favorite track from the album is "Brand New U", a killer song that captures the pure essence of missing the person who you thought you once knew.  You will find many tracks on his MySpace page.  Check it out!

Taniq, which is a combination of the words 'talent unique',  is the husband and wife duo Miko and Carolyn who exude love, positive vibes and love to have a good time.  Carolyn and Miko complement each other in every way.  Both are simply beautiful and judging by the few minutes that I spent with them, they are clearly on the right path.  They love what they do, which shows in their performance and they are just all around cool people.  Love just emanates from these two when they are together or apart.  And their vocals?  Pure harmony.  They blessed us with a sexy live version of "Everything About You".  I do not want to say too much about any of the artists, since I will have upcoming entries on each of them.  However, in the meantime do check for their album The Life And Times Of Love.  Just yesterday I was told that it was sold out on CD Baby (way to go!).  I did hear the album yesterday and it is a must have!  If you hurry, you will be able to find one of my favorite tracks from the album, "Breakin' The Rules" as a free download from Soultracks.  I unfortunately did not get any video from their performance to share because I was truthfully grooving a bit too hard, but I promise there will be more coming in the near future on this talented newlywed duo.

Taniq and I

And lastly, my new sugar dumpling Rahbi (pronounced Robbie) hit the stage with sheer fabulousity.  The Prince Of Glam Soul did the damn thing and was NO JOKE.  With his insane level of intensity and energy, gold beads, lace glove, charming character and vocals galore, he had the house in an uproar.  Rahbi took over the stage and proved to everyone that he was born to perform.  His opening track "Bittersweet Dreams" is a killer rendition of the Eurythmics' stellar track "Sweet Dreams", with a twist.  I wish I got a little more, but my video card ended up being full.  Here's a taste:

After his second song, he was asked to do an encore to satisfy the masses.  It was my first time hearing and being exposed to Rahbi and it become a memorable evening indeed.  As I sat in front of the stage taking in his set, he zeroed in on me for a little chair dance if you will.  And as my new found friend Walter said, "Look at you, your first show...", all I could respond was, "Well, I have now been christened haven't I?"  

So my soiree was a lot of fun and a chance to de-stress and take in some wicked tunes.  I met new friends and...Oh wait!!  How can I forget to mention the MC?  Pam and Detrel asked Fiona B from The Bloom Effect to host the show.  She became one of my first friends on Soul Commune, so it was great to see and meet the person behind the name.  Good lord, what a firecracker that one is!!  If you ever need someone to host a show for you–Fiona should be your first choice.  She is spunky, full of personality, like fiyah on the mic and who can resist an English accent?  I don't have video, even though in hindsight, I should.  But trust me, I love me some Fiona B or Miss B as I dubbed her last night.

Below is a little ensemble of the pics I took last night, at a previous show and a mix of a few family pics as well–hope you enjoy!

 

And lastly, the flashback of the day.  Today the song chosen is for myself and my girl Vivrant Thang, who just saw Lalah Hathaway in concert.  We both love this song and like her, it happens to be my favorite Lalah track.  I just happened to stumble on the remix, that I heard and fell in love with before I heard the original:

See y'all soon...

Tha Connoisseur 

It's 6 Questions With...Sy Smith

"Wake up everybody no more sleepin' in bed, no more backward thinkin' time for thinkin' ahead..."  Teddy Pendergrass - Wake Up Everybody

It is going to be a short and sweet entry, because I am trying yet another new thing here today. 

I have shared with you previously that I have had the pleasure of interviewing quite a few artists over the years.  Some were bitchy and disgusting and some were uptight but they did not outweigh all the others who were simply a joy to be with.

So I have decided that I will use my charming skill to the best of my ability and reach out to those that are doing the damn thing on the music scene.  My entry today is called "6 Questions With..."  It is a simple 6 question mini-view with an artist whose music I enjoy and a person I admire.  We just might learn a few tidbits about an artist that maybe we have not known or something they wanted to share.  So with that said, my first choice is the effervescent and funky Sy Smith.

Sy Smith has been on her grind since the late 90's.  Some of you may not know her work, yet on the other hand some of you all do.  Her sound is funky, sexy soul that takes you on a journey to new highs.  If you have not experienced any of her albums: Psykosoul, The Syberspace Social or her recent endeavour Conflict -  you are definitely caught up in The Matrix and need to be freed!  With her stint as lead singer for The Brand New Heavies and her 4 seasons as a background singer on American Idol, Sy Smith is always doing her thing.  Sy's new album Conflict is a cool, eclectic blend of stellar soul tracks.  My favorites are "B Side Love Affair" and the album title track "Conflict", find it, listen and take it all in!  You can find some of the album tracks on her music player on the website.  Sy is the woman to go to for an intense blend of crafty lyrics and insane galactic beats.  When you decide to purchase this phenomenal CD, please visit Soultracks for an autographed Sy Smith CD, as she is being featured as the CD of the month.  Also, please check out an interview on Honeysoul, where Sy talks about a little bit of everything with Vonnie.  Do check out Sy Smith's new album Conflict and you can catch up with her movements (tour info, album reviews and such) on her website Sysmith.com  

So without further adieu, here are 6 Questions With Sy Smith.

1) With a BS in Psychology and a minor in Music Theory, would you say that your insight into the workings of the mind definitely influence your eclectic writing style?

I don't consciously use my knowledge in the disciplines of Psych and Music Therapy (Music Therapy was my minor, incidentally) to influence my writing. I think that any psychology I might use is the same that any person uses in his/her day-to-day life. It's definitely fun sometimes to break down the lyrics of my songs after-the-fact and see what the heck I was on though! Sometimes I'll read my lyrics and just trip out, like "wow, was I on crack?" LOL!

2) I always find that your music is always ethereal and fresh - anything you put out is always different. What is your secret to keeping things new and funky?

I don't know that I have a secret. I just try not to be repetitive or redundant, while at the same time always putting my "stamp" on my music. I sometimes approach songs by picturing myself as someone else. For instance, the song "dreamtrip" on the Syberspace Social CD - I wanted to sound like a Japanese boys' choir so I sang everything the way I felt a young Japanese boy might. I sang everything very precisely, each note was uniform with all the rest. If you listen back to that tune, you'll hear what I'm talking about... I probably sound crazy trying to explain it, huh?

3) "Conflict" is a song I love because of the conflicting contrasts; the opposites in life that we go through on the daily that always require choice. As an artist, where would you say your heart and passion is, in other words - where do you come alive - in your songwriting or singing? And if you had to break it down between the two, which would be your choice? If there is one of course...lol

Art brings me alive, however it chooses to manifest itself through me. I absolutely LOVE performing whether it be singing or acting, but I love writing too. There's something so satisfying about having a song in your head and then watching/hearing it come alive in the studio. I'm just happy and blessed to be a vessel for the arts because I firmly believe the arts to be the way The Creator communicates to and through us. And by "the arts", I'm not just speaking of music and dance, but also architecture, horticulture, floristry, sculpture, culinary arts... everything artistic!

4) Some may not know your work, but you are ALWAYS on your grind. You have been featured in commercials, sing background on American Idol etc. Would you let Hollywood steal you away from us musically if the acting bug hit you? 

I must have been bitten by the said acting bug years ago, because I originally moved to L.A. to perform in a play. I've done several plays here in L.A. and one that traveled to D.C. at the Warner Theatre. I love acting.

5) Your style is always daring and alluring. Explain in your own words, your personal style.

Ooooh... I probably won't be good at answering this question. I don't think too much about style, unless I'm on stage... When I'm performing, I like to give the audience some drama. I like stagey/costumey wardrobe, but it has to fit the mood of the show too. I think I was a drag queen in another life...

6) My last proverbial question: Name one album you keep close on a:

a) melancholy day - Portishead's "Dummy", Nine Inch Nails "Downward Spiral", Amel Larrieux's "Lovely Standards"
b) night to set the mood right - Afterdark New York,
c) funk down soiree - Zo!'s "Freelance", DJ Quik's "Rhythmalism", Rahsaan Patterson's "Wines & Spirits"

Flashback of the day - this was a no brainer.  This would be one of the album choices that I do have in common with Sy Smith.  Portishead's Dummy is an album that I stumbled upon when I used to work at HMV back in the day.  Here is my favorite track from the album:

See y'all soon...

Tha Connoisseur