Cyndi Lauper: Her Best in Years****

At this moment, I am listening to my new favorite summer CD. A couple of weeks ago, as I reviewed amazon's list of upcoming album releases I came across Miss Cyndi Lauper's new album. I thought, "new album" could it be true? She hasn't released any new material in 12 years. Needless to say, I was excited. 'Bring Ya to the Brink' the title of her new album, from the first track to the last,will immediately pull you into Cyndi's crazy labyrinth world. Consider the album as sort of tour de France of Cyndi's mind. Furthermore, the album is a fun and full of energy. If you want the perfect summer CD, then checkout Cyndi Lauper's latest release. Download these: 'Into the Night Life,' 'Rocking Chair,' and 'Set Your Heart.'

New Cd Review: Madonna, Hard Candy

It's Spring time and what does the season symbolize; Rebirth. No, not the title of Jennifer Lopez's now defunct 3rd album, but Spring is a time when the flowers start to bloom and the sun starts to shine a little more vibrantly. Okay, what does this have to do with music? All the new fresh music that came out this past April was consistent with the season.
Mariah Carey released her 11th studio album E=MC2 on April 15. Her adoring fans flocked to get it--making E=MC2 Mariah's 6th number one album. Madonna and Janet Jackson have both held this title as two female pop artists with the most # albums, now Mariah joins these two divas, although I willing to bet that Madonna's latest release will hit number one--making it her 7th.
And, on that note, Hard Candy****, the title of Madonna's 11th studio album boast an array of hip-hop's finest producers, from Timbaland to Pharreal and Kanye West, Madonna has besieged a highly danceable, easily digestible assortment of music. What do I really think of Madonna's latest venture into pop martyrdom? Madonna has great audience awareness. She has made a career out of reinventing herself--satisfying the masses with a new sound, look, and persona on each of her albums. Hard Candy is no different. She is a true professional--embodying and adopting various musical styles is her signature. Hard Candy is an excellent mixture of late 70s pop/r&b with an early eighties funk vibe,too. The disc is contemporary. Madonna makes this mosaic of club/dance music current. You won't listen to the disc and think "Gosh this sounds dated," but you will hear the late
70s and early 80s influences. On songs like, 'Heartbeat,' Give it to Me,'and 'She's not Me,' Madonna soars into this sort of dance club disco beat that would make the staunches Donna Summer disco fanatic gush with bravado. The only flaw on the album is at points, Madonna's producers seems to guide her too much. The album seems to reflect or showcase their contributions more blatantly than Madonna's. If I compare this album to some of her previous work, Madonna's presence is an undeniable force in songs like, 'Hung up' 'American Life,' or 'Music.' Yet, on Hard Candy, many of the tracks don't sound like a signature Madonna song. The songs could easily be a Nelly Furtado or Gwen Stafani hit. In fact, on some of the songs Madonna seems to be going through the motions. The disk lacks some authenticity. Nonetheless, it is a great dance-hall jam. The most ebullient Madonna fans should enjoy Hard Candy.
Download these, 'Heartbeat,' 'Dance2Nite,' 'Incredible,' and 'Devil wouldn't Recognize You,'

The Bigger Picture: Can You See it Now; May 6, 2008

After Tuesday night's democratic primary election in Indiana and North Carolina, front runner Barack Obama pulled out another victory in North Carolina and a strong second place finish in Indiana. I, for one, am excited. Obama gained some needed momentum after losing in Texas and Pennsylvania. Nonetheless, it looks like he is going to be the democratic nominee,taking on McCain. This has been an exhausting and at times relentless democratic primary campaign season. Clinton has proved herself to be a challenging an formidable opponent.
Obama has been criticized over and over again in the news media for his shortcomings, which really have amounted to nothing more than soundbites. Some have claimed that he has no substance. Well, I believe critics are simply grasping at straws. Yet, the point of this blog is not to debunk those claims. Instead, it is a calling of sorts, in the hope that as Democrats we can see that now is time to get behind Obama (Clinton supporters pay attention). I think if we all take some time and think about what issues are most important to us all, then we will see that Obama's agenda is pretty consistent with Clinton's. I think it's time to reflect on what direction we want to see our nation take in the Middle East, on health care, on gay rights, on economic policy, and on basic fundamental constitutionally granted equal rights for us all. Democratic politicians, although at times may believe in too much government, but ideologically believe in the kind of social programs that are inclusive--which give help to those that need it most, and not just the privileged few. It is time we all started looking at the bigger picture; we need to help build an energy around the democratic nominee because we can't risk another four years of Republican George Bush type politics in the Washington. And, who knows maybe we'll see an Obama/Clinton ticket; that would be an unbeatable force, a partnership we would all truly support.

People Magazine and Jennifer Lopez

First, Congrats to Jennifer Lopez and Mark Anthony on their two new additions. Okay, now that I have got the formalities off my chest, on to the critique. On the cover of the latest issue of People magazine, Jennifer Lopez in all of her post pregnancy glory gives the magazine first access to pictures of her beautiful twins. So, we are given a very picturesque image of Lopez and her babies. A People magazine exclusive,how did they get so lucky? Well, the picture is warm, fuzzy, cozy, and serene. Lopez looks the part of the happy new mom. But, we'd expect nothing less from such a top notch actress.
Well, the magazine cover is where the warm fuzzy feelings end. People has devoted a ten page spread to showcase JLO and Anthony's beautiful babies, right? Wrong, all the pictures seem to be more about showing Jennifer in very contrived and self-indulgent poses with her babies. It's almost as if she said, "This photo shoot is about me. I carried these babies for nine months and my ass got fatter. I want to feel pretty again, dammit!" No, I exaggerate. But, if you look at these photos you get a sort of icky feeling. Her intentions feel really disingenious. If you are going to invite People magazine into your home and show your new born babies to the world, shouldn't it be a real organic experience? There was no spontaneity to the pictures; they seem more like JLO playing mommy for the camera versus just being mommy. One of the pictures features JLO in a gorgeous gown standing next to the babies carriage and of course, Anthony is right by her side. What makes the picture so appalling is the look on JLO's face. She's holding one of her twins as if it is an accessory to ascent her gown and hair. And, the look on her face suggest she can't wait for the nanny to get this funny smelling baby out of her arms.
I am taken back to the mid 90s when Madonna offered the world a first look at pictures of she and Lordress ( God I hope I spelled that right), but not to digress too much, the pictures were intimate and vulnerable. The public really saw Madonna in a new light, a new role, and I believe that is what truly resonates with your public, when they see you as Christina Aguilera might say, "Just me, Stripped." Maybe I'm being to harsh, but nothing about People's EXCLUSIVE inside look at JLO's twins seems to be about the babies, but more about her ego. Shame on you JLO.

New Spring 2008 Music: Hits and Misses

Spring is upon us and that means new music.
Full Disc
Danity Kane- Welcome to the Doll House**

Five Hot Girls, what more do I need to say? Well, apparently Diddy is relying on that same sentiment inherent in most pop music fans shallow dispositions to sell Danity Kane's second sophomore disc. I am not necessarily saying this album will be a flop, but it's too generic and bland. These girls all have yet to define who they are in pop/r&b music. Their sound is so heavily manufactured and overproduced that even now, unlike their first disc, vocally each girl is really indistinguishable from the next. Part of the appeal of girl groups is that their is always at least one or two lead singers that pretty much sell the group. Think about groups such as, the Supremes, Destiny's Child, En Vogue, Expose, and the Pussycat Dolls, one person's vocals really defined these groups. Yes, it is great when you hear each member sing, and more importantly that the public knows they can all sing; it just makes the group seem more legitimate as artists. Unfortunately, Danity Kane lacks any vocal identity or maturity. There is nothing really characteristic about the group's sound that will take them to the next level. However, the album does have some luminous parts,as a result of stellar production, similar to Miss Brittany's latest album 'The Blackout.' Overall it's just okay; I don't see this record being successful outside of the first single. Download these: "Damaged," "Pretty Boy,"Sucka for your Love," and "Bad Girl."




Singles,
Madonna- 4 Minutes to Save the World****
With such and awkward title, one might expect Madge's first single to be a real bore, but it is quite the opposite. In fact, this single could be well on it's way to the umber one spot atop of Billboard's Hot 100 singles list,for the Queen herself. Madonna's last number one hit was 2000's "Music." However, I predict "4 Minutes" will be her next chart topper. The single is infectious and bold. With the pulsating marching band style beat and of course, the irresistible Timberlake and Timbaland connection, Madonna's new producutin crew might just be the catalyst she needs to send this record straight to numero uno!


Mariah Carey- Touch My Body***
If it ain't broke, don't fix it, the old adge proves true on Mimi's latest effort. In 2005, Mariah reached music prominence again with her vindication disc, "The Emancipation of Mimi," although I question her usage of the word 'Emancipation' girl were you really in bondage? I think not. This time around, in 2008, Mariah has opted to continue to reiterate her sexy sexy. Nothing about "Touch my Body" is really new or innovative, but Mariah is consistent, which deserves some credit. She knows what her audience expects; and she delivers. Mariah has not been one to digress from the formula, and when you know what works; you have to go with it. But, I think this single lacks a little substance; vocally, it is pretty sub-par. But the it is somewhat melodic and I can see people cruising down the road to Miss E=MC2.

The 9 Lives of Janet Jackson or 10th, but who’s really counting?

DISCIPLINE***
February 26, 2008 marked the tenth time Miss Janet Jackson released a studio album. Her latest release entitled “Discipline” is the singer’s 3rd attempt to reclaim that coveted number one spot on the Billboard hot 200. Jackson’s last album to debut at number one was 2001’s “All For You.” Well, it seems Janet edged her bets wisely on “Discipline” dropping long time producers, collaborative duo Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis for hip-hop and R&B producer Rodney Jerkins. “Discipline” pulled in at the number one spot on the Billboard 200 this past weekend, making it her first since 2001. I could not be happier. I have been a long time Janet fan. I hope this is a sweet victory for Miss Jackson. Since, the now infamous Nipplegate scandal her two subsequent releases 2004’s “Damita Jo” and 2006’s 20 Y.O. were not number 1 debuts. However, I am a firm believer that it was that incident, which shifted the public’s attention away from Janet Jackson’s music. “Damita Jo” was a great album, in fact is my favorite Janet disc to date. But, I believe “Discipline” will reign supreme for at least a couple of weeks. Janet is a true crossover artist. She is her best when she combines both pop and r&b effectively on her albums. Damita Jo was a great mix of the two, but she couldn’t escape the Super bowl controversy and as a result the album flopped.
Now on to the critique. Is “Discipline” a great album? Or will it evaporate into an abyss of desolate oblivion as so many pop albums have done lately? Hmm…well, I sure it hope it doesn’t but “Discipline” really doesn’t offer up much ingenuity and creativity one would expect to find on a killer arguably comeback album. But, to digress, let’s face it, most pop albums today are so single driven that only about ½ the album is worth your hard earned money. I think about albums such as Amy Winehouse’s “Back to Black” or Justin Timberlake’s “Future Sex, Lovesounds,” these two really eclipse for me, what a great pop album is all about. “Discipline” is not great, but it defiantly shines in many places. The first five songs, Feedback, Luv, Rollercoaster, Rock with U, and 2nite will take you back to the vintage Janet sound that defined some of her previous discs such as 1993’s “Janet” or 1989’s “Rhythm Nation.” Toward the middle of “Discipline” is where Janet starts to waiver. Let’s face she’s not a ballad singer, but some slow songs really work well with her soft pre-pubescent boyish whimper. The middle of the album is mainly filler; it doesn’t really pick back up until some of the last tracks such as, “So Much Better” and “The 1.” The title track “Discipline” really stays in sync with the type of songs Janet has ended every one of her albums with since “Control.” Sexy, erotic, sensual, and seductive, Janet loves to play within all these roles on all her albums. She flaunts the sex-kitten persona effectively on each and does not disappoint on the title track either. Although she has gained some criticism for continuing to recycle this image on each of her albums, I really can’t blame her. If it isn’t broke, don’t try to fix it. Yes, she is a 41 year old woman singing about her sexual escapades or desires, and it probably is time she moved on into a more refined sound, but this seductress sound is quintessential Janet; one that she does well. Overall, “Discipline” is an above average disc. The first five songs are stellar; they will get you in the mood to party; the next three might put you to sleep, but don’t fret the suggestive Missy Elliot penned lyrics on “The 1” should perk you right back up. Download these “Feedback,” “Luv,” “Rock with U,” “2nite,” “The 1,” and “Discipline”
Some of my Favorite Janet slow grooves Favorite Janet Albums 10-least favorite 1- absolute favorite
“Funny How Time Flies” 10. Janet Jackson (self titled first album)
“Someday is Tonight” 9. Dream Street
“Anytime, Anyplace” 8. 20 Y.O.
“Anything” 7. Discipline
“When We Ooh” 6. All For You
“Moist” 5. Rhythm Nation 1814
“Take Care” 4. The Velvet Rope
“Discipline” 3. Janet
2. Control
1. Damita Jo

ABC Presidential Debates

Well, it's 2008 and we are well into the primary election season, with the Iowa caucuses finished, all the candidates seem ready for the New Hampshire primary all leading up to Super Tuesday in February. I must admit, I am sort of sick of these round table debates we've become accustomed to seeing. ABC aired the New Hampshire debate last night; I watched the majority of the Democratic candidates, and caught the tail end of the Republican contenders. Was I impressed with any candidates from either party; did anyone standout above the rest? I pondered both questions, as the debate came to a close. Frankly, I was not impressed with any of their performances, and trust, some were "performing." Not because the candidates did not espouse what they'd like to do for the country and the direction they'd like to take it, but because they continually spout the same banter of information, the same political rhetoric, and the same sense of entitlement. I have come to realize that these debates are really good for one thing, SOUNDBITES. Romney accuses McCain of wanting amnesty for illegal aliens, while Clinton accuses Obama of flip flopping, when the truth is they are all guilty of supporting flawed bills or changing positions. It's all pretty dis concerning to watch. Nonetheless, this is an important presidential race, so my best advice; tune into the debates get a feel for the candidates, if you haven't made any decisions either way, then do some research. Don't go to their website, that's all fluff. If you want to know who and what these candidates stand for, you'll have to read the good and the bad; trust me it's out there. Then make an informed decision based on what they hope to accomplish [make sure you believe their plans are realistic] and what they have done in the past.