Black Porcelain’s Invincible Summer Review

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Invincible Summer cover

Black Porcelain has released her truly independent self finance album.  We first wrote about her in 2011 when she released a remix of Butterflies. Then in 2012 when she released the video of “Today Is the Day”. To this day I still love this song.  Which listening to “Invincible Summer”, I was very happy to hear it as the first track.  Kind of a feeling of being at home, and put me in comfortable place with this new material.

As I said the first song is “Today is the Day”.  It’s a very deceptive song. It’s the most upbeat positive “Get the Hell Out” song I have every heard.  The simple yet effective piano keeps the song very light and positive.  Most other singers in the genre would and have made this subject more dark than it should be.  That’s why for me it’s very refreshing to get her take on this type of song.  Also the horns arrangement on the song is excellent.

The next two tracks “Aching Head” and “Hot Pink” continue the strong start of the album.  With “Aching Head”, the bass guitar plays big part in establishing the tempo of the song.  Which could be taken as a drinkers anthem. lol.  In the song “Hot Pink”, her voice really stands out and takes over the song.  In doing so, you realize something.  That the first three songs are not similar at all, and Black Porcelain’s voice handles each distinctly and masterfully.  You don’t notice her voice strain, or reach areas where she is uncomfortable.

The album continues with song after song that describes her on her Journey.  Each song is a glimpse into that journey and her life, which makes this album very personal and meaningful.  This album has many reasons why I love independent artists.  I feel that each fan, album purchase and “like” helps that artist accomplish their dreams, which is repaid by more music for the fans.

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Conya Doss gives us a “Pocketful Of Purpose”

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Website/Facebook/Twitter

The lovely and talented Conya Doss has released her newest project upon  the world.  It’s been about a year and a half since her last release “Blu Transition”.  She has crafted her sixth album with the same Soul, inspired writing, and great voice that has been pillars in all her music.  From her debut album of “A Poem About Ms. Doss” to “Pocketful of Purpose”, they all exhibit a genuine and solid sound.   This wonderful music is even intensified, with her being a teacher in Cleveland.  That shows a a dedication to both that is early seen.

The album doesn’t disappoint in any way.  If you are old fan or this is your first time learning her name, you will have much to appreciate and love in this album.  Some my favorites of this album are “Paradise”, “Don’t Change” and “Lost”.   For the first two, you can listen to “Paradise” and watch her first video release from the album, “Don’t Change”.

You can learn more about Conya Doss and also purchase the CD version of the album right from her site.  You can support an artist greatly, by purchasing directly from the artist.  If you are looking for the digital version, check out iTunes.


BlackPorcelain has decided “Today is the Day”

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South African artist BlackProcelain has released the first single “Today is the Day“,  to her upcoming debut album “Invincible Summer”.  I first was exposed to her wonderful voice from her second EP “TheInBetween“, last year.   From that point I was hooked.  With the new single, it reminds me that Soul from outside U.S., feels so refreshing and provides a unique take on the genre.  This song provides you with the most positive “break-up” song that I’ve heard.  It has a lot to say about the process, but in a very light meaningful way.  As you watch the video of her getting ready, it provides a perfect transition with the lyrics of the song.  Very Nice.

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P.S. If you enjoy BlackPorcelain, you might want to also check out Giovanca from the Netherlands.

Gloria Ry’ann releases “Back With You” Video

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I have a new musical crush.  Her name is Gloria Ry’ann.  She released “Just Glow The EP” on November 21, of last year.  It’s a five songs of Soul that is simple, soothing, seductive and allows for her voice to bring you in her world.   This video is a perfect example of the vibe she exudes in her music.


Nakia Henry’s Transition 3rd Cycle Video

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Nakia Henry has released a great video for the song “Transition 3rd Cycle”.  It’s a variation/remix of “Transition” from her 2009 album “Remember Me”.  It’s nice to see an artist keep working son a song, and see it grow and evolve from it’s original form.  Check out the video, and let her  (@nakiasaid) know your thoughts.


Maysa Wants You to Have Sweet Dreams

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Website/Twitter

Maysa has released her latest album “Motions of Love” last week that is already holding the #1 spot on the R&B charts for iTunes.  This being her 9th solo album, I feel it’s one of her best.  I’ve been a fan of hers since the album “All My Life“, which was released in 2000.  I have been a willing captive of her voice, style and beauty since then.  With this latest album, it seems that has a more Neo Soul or relaxed Soul feel than previous albums.  I love it.  Her first single to be released is “Have Sweet Dreams”.  It was co-written by Stevie Wonder.  Which is a huge deal by it self.  Listening to the song, you can definitely hear where Stevie Wonder left his mark on the song. You can listen to the song below, but please don’t stop there.  The whole album needs to be heard to appreciate the complete, total experience Maysa is offering to you.

[audio: Maysa%20-%20Have%20Sweet%20Dreams.mp3]

 

Tracy Cruz’s Universoul Symphony Dazzles

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Website/Twitter/Facebook/YouTube

I’ve always had a secret love affair with Tracy Cruz’s music.  From the her first release in 2005 of “Illuminate Love” EP (that’s very hard to find), then on to her lovely “Feel’osophy” in three years later.  Now that  love grows with her new album “Universoul Symphony”, but I can’t keep it a secret any more. When her music and I first met, I thought it was too good for me. lol.  It wasn’t until “Feel’osophy”, that I really understood her music and could appreciate the “Illuminate Love” EP better.  Here is a video of her describing the creation of the new album, which gives you a very intimate look at her, her music and life.


Her new album is the best that I have heard her yet.  The best way for me to describe it, is as an uncomplicated spacial rhythm that wraps you in the blanket of her unyielding ranged voice, that holds you from “Soundation” to “Struggle Reprise“.  Just beautiful. My two favorite songs of the album has to be “Electricity” and “Love’s Galaxy“.  I think that “Love’s Galaxy” really showcases her voice and spot on production that’s contained on the album.  There is a whole feel to the album, that blends greatly with the whole Universoul and galaxy environment Tracy sets up.

As I wrote this article, my respect grew for Tracy Cruz and her music.  As a music lover you can love the music, but not fully understand the artist or what they are trying to present to the world.  With Tracy Cruz, you get a more complete view of what she is doing and trying to to show you through her music.  Nothing is hidden, all is there for you to absorb and allows you to get more insight and appreciation of her music and art.  Give her and her music a chance, starting with “Universoul Symphony”. You will be thankful that you did.

Nakia Henry Tells a Story of Transition (Video)

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Nakia Henry, an artist who I have come to love her music, has released a video for her remixed song Transition. It’s from her debut album “Remember Me”.  It’s a song of life, struggle, and change.  Very beautiful, and will give you insight to her and her music.  Take a listen, and check out the album.  You’ll enjoy the discovery.


Saidah Baba Talibah Wakes up the Genre with a (S)cream

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Saidah Baba Talibah (twitter/facebook) has released the video to her single (S)Cream. Which is also the name of her debut album, that was released two weeks ago. She brings a welcome change, and realness to the genre.  She is an artist that uses real instruments to compliment her infinitely ranged voice.  The reason that I say that she wakes up the genre, is that she isn’t afraid of the electric guitar. For some reason, if we hear an electric guitar we are turned off.  If you do that, in this case, then you are really missing out on what she has to share with you.

The range in her talent can be really realized, when looking at the power of “(S)Cream”, then the subtleness of “High”, and finally the warm and inviting “”Good Morning Baby”.  Again, don’t be afraid of real instruments, and miss something great.  Let Saidah Baba Talibah be your guide to this new world.  As I listen to her music, her album is hooking me with each song. It’s like getting a little sweet in one bite, and a little spicy in the next.

Black Porcelain gives us “Butterflies” Remixed

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Ever get the feeling that there is a whole other world of Soul music to love, but you don’t know where to start?  Well, I have found my start.  Her name is Black Porcelain aka Carol Mashigo (Twitter/Facebook/YouTube).  She is a singer/songwriter born in Soweto.  Previously she released her EP “TheInBetween”.  The hit of that EP was “Butterflies”, which very popular in Europe.  WIth the help of DJ Zinhle, they remixed the song and the reach of the song grew even more.


Butterflies (DJ Zinhle Remix) by BlackPorcelain

What entrances me about her voice, is that on the remixed “Butterflies”, is that the up tempo vibe doesn’t over power her voice.  She is able to convey her silky subtle vocals, and not get lost within the music.  For me that’s a real show of talent, and teamwork in the studio.  To help give you some insight into her in the studio, check out the video below.


Musinah releasing “Gone” 2XEP on 7/20

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Muhsinah is going to give her loyal fans a double dose of her tomorrow.  On July 20th, is when she will release her double EP “Gone”, for free to the world.  This is her way of saying thank you, for her winning a contest to open for Jennifer Hudson in Aruba (video interview below).  I’ve been a fan of her for a few years now and don’t think that she gets enough press for her glorious talent and business savvy.  To signup for the notification of EP, just head over to her Facebook page, and “Like” her page.  Pretty easy.


Muhsinah in Aruba from Muhsinah on Vimeo.

Ayah and DJ Jazzy Jeff are “Back For More”

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Ayah & DJ Jazzy Jeff have teamed up again, for the “Back for More” album.  The dynamic duo of the genre are back for very memorable versions of classics, and also originals.  They also teamed up with James Poyser, Pete Kuzma and Démien DeSandies to help craft this album into a very unique sound. With thirteen tracks of loveliness, with the best price of FREE, this can’t be beat.  This must be the summer of fan appreciation, with all the great projects that are being made available.

Download here

Teedra Moses “Luxurious Undergrind” Mixtape

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Teedra Moses has released “Luxurious Undergrind” Mixtape, a quality project that will help you get into your chill mood do, for the weekend.  Besides the great music that is encapsulated in this mixtape, it also is a tie in for her the show On Ustream, that she is starring.  Joining her is Vanessa James, Mara Melendez.  They can be seen every Thursday 10pm-11pm EST.

 

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Kawan Debose is “Exposed” Mixtape

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Kawan Debose has released his new mixtape “Exposed”.  This is his first project after his album “Vintage Soul”, which was released in 2009.  Kawan is in a special class that wears three hats, as writer, producer, and thankfully singer.  On this mixtape, there is a great collection of songs, that will show you his talents of all three.

There are a few songs that standout to me.  First would be his version of Adore You, by Prince.  Not many people can pull off a Prince song, but Kawan does it well. Second would be “Rolling In the Deep”, which has been a song made popular by Adele on her album “21”.  he is able to added a additional depth and emotion to it that, wasn’t present before.  Most importantly, the song “Crazy”, which is from “Vintage Soul”. It really shows his range.

Now all these great songs are packaged nicely, and available to you for FREE.  So, you have no reason not to pick this up and enjoy what Kawan Debose has to offer you. You will be surprised and pleased.

 

 

Nakia Henry lets loose her “Love Letter”

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Nakia Henry has joyously released her video “Love Letter” on VH1 Soul.   This is the first video from her album “Remember Me“.  If you don’t know, that’s a big deal.  She has other videos in the pipeline, which is great for her fans.  Enjoy.