Re: Omar

Steve Holman (holmanc@gusun.georgetown.edu)
Fri, 29 Aug 1997 15:46:36 -0400 (EDT)


the uk release is 55:44. And I have to agree with Mark, Omar is a genius,
this is his best work to date. My favorites on the album are the title
track, the current single in the uk "say nothin'" -- both are distinctive
Omar tracks with his keyboard effects, background strings, and funky
rhythm track -- and the aforementioned "lullaby", a duet with Syreeta
Wright, who has a voice that just makes you want to cry.

There are also a couple of stevie wonder inspired tracks that work after
you listen to them a couple of times, but a little jarring at first
listen. Overall, if you like "For Pleasure", you'll like this album.

Speaking of Omar, I'm shocked that there's been no discussion about
Laurnea's debut, "Betta Listen". I know it's out in both the uk and in the
states. This is the sleeper aj CD of the year, perhaps not as good as
"baduizm", but a solid nu-soul effort on par with rashaan patterson
and adriana evans. Omar produced three tracks on the album, and even sings
on one song (ironically, it's the weakest of the three) -- other producers
include dj kermit, raphael saddiq (toni tone tony), and speech. She calls
her style "eclectic soul", and that's the best definition for it, she's a
grab bag of jazz, gospel, soul, and funk. I highly recommend this album.

Sorry, I'm not a muscian or a dj or anything, so I have a hard time
describing these CDs, but they happen to be two of my favorites at the
moment.

Peace,

Steve

ON Fri, 29 Aug 1997 RONALD_JOHNSON@yr.com wrote:

>
> How many minutes does the full CD clock in at? Any word on a US release
> date?
>
> < "Lullaby" in particular is 6 minutes of gorgeous soul...
>
> ..Mark..>
> ------------------------------------------------------------------
> Mark Allerton Mark@warmspot.compulink.co.uk
> http://www.compulink.co.uk/~warmspot/