Music on My List: Spring 2009

Single Reviews
The Ting Tings: ‘That’s Not My Name’- Download it now. This is such a refreshing song in sea mundane pop bands, the Ting Tings offer a true taste of a 80s refashioned.
Chester French: ‘She Loves Everybody’- OMG, this is my new favorite. If you’re a relentless clubber, then you know this chick.
Duffy: ‘Rain on My Parade’- I love this ode to the jaunty; it’s carefree; it’s unapologetic; it’s so relevant. The kind of track you want to hear when you’re feeling on top of the world.
Kelly Clarkson: ‘I Don’t Hook-up’- Get ready for the next big angst filled girl-power anthem.
Black Eyed Peas- Boom Boom Pow- All I can say is the pulsating drum beat will have all the kids shaking their humps.

Album Reviews
Keyshia Cole: ‘A Different Me’****
o Just as the title of this CD suggest, the listener is treated to very different Cole and it doesn’t disappoint. Cole’s “different me” is confident and sexy. If you’re at all familiar with Cole’s previous hits, ‘I just Want it to be Over,’ ‘Love,’ ‘Last Night,’ or ‘Let it Go,’ then you know she’s stuck primarily to R&B influences/leanings. Cole’s eclectic 3rd album unleashes an array of musical taste. Her most avid fans shouldn’t be disappointed. The R&B grooves which are responsible for her rise to stardom are well crafted on this 14 track disc, too. Yet, it is the standout pop production on songs such as ‘Make me Over, Please Don’t Stop,’ and ‘No Other,’ that showcase Cole’s strengths as a crossover artist. Download, ‘Erotic,’ ‘Thought You Should Know,’ and ‘Please Don’t Stop’

Lily Allen ‘It’s Not Me, it’s You’****
o This musical disc is a fun ride into a quirky mind that may leave you feeling a bit mischievous. On this partly humorous and cheeky 12 track CD, Allen manages to explore in a whispery and somewhat whimsical voice the common themes of love, life, and true happiness. From the first track, in which she details how everyone’s at it (doing coke) to the eleventh in which she questions GOD’s possible dissatisfaction with his so-called followers (people of faith). Allen manages to share deeply personal stories with her audience that reveals a young woman on the brink of self-discovery. Download, ‘Everyone’s At It,’ ‘The Fear,’ and ‘Back to the Start.’

Jessica Simpson, Ghastly Faux Paux, or Grand Publicity Stunt

"Grand stands and grand slams," maybe that could work as a tag line for Jessica Simpson's career. In fact, when was the last time you heard anything about her that focused on her singing or even acting for that matter? If you haven't paid too much attention to the celebrity gossip on the "tube" (basically TMZ) lately and have no idea what I am referencing, then just go to your local grocery store. Pick up the latest issue of OK magazine or The National Inquirer. You'll see the "outfit" that's causing more drama for Ms. Simpson than any of her albums or movies. Ok, maybe that's a little harsh, but I can't help but think that the high-waisted denim jeans, the skin tight black tank top and the leopard print belt all scream one thing, "My stylist and publicist sure know how to manipulate public attention." And, why shouldn't they; it's is what celebrities pay them to do. Does she look fat? Well, depends on your definition of fat. But, mostly this isn't even about Jessica Simpson being overweight, I believe it's a desperate star trying to hold on to what little bit of fame she has left. But, she, or here people, are probably handling it the wrong way.

And, don't get me wrong, I am not trying to judge her. Well, maybe I am. But, I do realize the music industry places ridiculous standards and myths of beauty on female artist. And, I know it's become increasingly hard for women to navigate the waters of thin, too thin, skinny and fat. But, Jessica's "I am not fat" pleas just seem really disingenuous. Of course she realizes she's not fat. Still, even if she does think she's fat, she'll lose the weight so quick that to position herself as the victim of media cruelty just doesn't jive with me. She wore the outfit for publicity and it's obviously worked well, for now at least. She still needs a hit, movie, album or single.

Of course, she could begin the fat girl crusade and talk about how the entertainment industry places unfair standards on women? The public sympathy card seemed to work for Jennifer Love-Hewitt and Trya Banks. So, I ask, Jessica Simpson, ghastly fashion faux paux, or grand publicity stunt?

Releases from 2008, Reviews in 2009

My Music reviews are generally too long. I'll try my best to keep it short and simple.

Black Kids- Party Traumatic****- Go get it now. That's it. You'll love it. It's slightly on the verge of being bubble gum pop, but it works well. Their music is reminiscent of 80s new wave groups such as ABC, Flock of Seagulls and let's mix it up with a little Human League., too. Download 'I want to be your limousine"

Little Jackie- The Stoop****- Give me a black woman with big hair singing about smoking cigarettes and contemplating lesbianism and I am hooked. No, actually they are a duo "named after Lisa Lisa & Cult Jam's 1989 single "Little Jackie Wants to Be a Star" consisting of vocalist Imani Coppola and programmer Adam Pallin." But, Coppola is the star. She sings the songs with an in your face type of confidence that is really refreshing in the current sea of mundane female vocalist. She effortlessly raps and sings across each track, think Lauryn Hill circa 1998, but more fun. Download, 'Black Barbie'

Kanye West- 808s & Heartbreaks***- The musicality on this disc in undeniable. I an probably a fair weather Kanye fan, but his latest disc, has this skeptical reviewer questioning my former opinion of Mr. West's talent. If you can get past the auto tune vocal stylings, which are somewhat atrocious, then you might be able to enjoy the Cd. Lyrically it's probably some of his best writing. The production on 'Love Lock down' is hypnotic to say the least. Download, 'Amazing and Paranoid.'

Adele- 19****- I can't believe this girl is so young. Her songs depict rich experiences that her 2o years do not befit. Yet, age is only a number, right? She writes songs that have a seamless fidelity that connect you to her credulous pleas on a track like 'Chasing Pavements'. This is a young woman on the brink or cusp of stardom. :) Download 'Hometown Glory'

Michael Steele, Who?

With the historic and ground breaking election of Barack Obama, I guess Republicans are feeling left out, seems it's time to get their black man, too. Now, I am not one to downplay African-American Leadership in either political party. Representation is representation, but doesn't it seem a little fishy that Michael Steele was named the RNC's chair just after the election of an African-American to the highest office in the nation? I mean, who is Michael Steele? I wonder do Republican strategist think their base is so stupid to fall for such ploys? Then, I remember this is the party that was so excited over Sarah Palin, and then I not surprised at all. Is the Republican party setting the stage for 2012? Maybe, but it's possibly too early to speculate about our next President.

Nonetheless, in a recent speech to House Republicans, Steele states, "Bipartisanship is overrated." Now, I ask in a time of economic downturn in the United States, shouldn't our politicians do all they can to work together? Shouldn't bipartisanship be atop both party's list? Unfortunately, for us (hard-working Americans) whom actually believe government can work, speeches such as Steele's reinforce old school political separatist ideologies. And, I realize Democrats are just as guilty, (Harry Reid) please stand up. Yet, in a circuit of talk show interviews, Steele has suggested that the Republican party resume the ways of Newt Gingrich's philosophy, the "contract with America" message. Steele is blatantly branding. He's trying rile up the Republican base and engender conflict with Democratic leadership in the White house. If they can create conflict with enough dissenting voices in Washington, win the House and Senate back in 2010 and keep the bulk of their party entrenched in revisionist history about the way things used to be, then they'll have successfully made the old dogma, new again. Republican leadership is not interested in trying to cooperate with Democrats or solve America's economic problems. Instead they are interested in gaining power, maintaining power and winning elections. Still, even though Democrats do have the majority in both houses, and don't really need Republican support, it would be nice to see some conciliatory acts.

Post Election Banter: Oh Gays where art thou? Proposition 8 and others

With all the post election frenzy, let us all not forget that although we (most of us anyway) got the person we wanted elected, ballot incentives and state amendments’ passed in California, Arkansas, Arizona and Florida denying GLBT Americans marriage and child care rights. I have written about gay marriage on this blog before but, it’s time to address the issue again. In California the place I considered one of the most liberal states in the union denied GLBT Americans their chance to engage in a symbolic and legally binding institution, marriage.

First, let’s consider how marriage is defined. What is marriage? According to Webster’s dictionary a marriage for all intensive purposes “is a union where by individuals are joined.” That is pretty simple. So why are (were) so many people interested in protecting marriage from redefinition? Ignorance, marriage is still marriage regardless if the two individuals have the same or opposite gender. Historically, marriage between men and women was promoted because it was (is) those unions which promoted reproduction. Looking at the term with a historic lens, given its Latin derivative, the idea of a marriage was not contingent upon the individuals identifying as hetro or homosexual. People did not even identify themselves in terms of their sexuality as people do in modern times. Therefore, if say in Roman or Greek society an older man wanted to take a younger man as his lover, such as the Emperor Nero did in a public ceremony, then it (the ceremony) was considered a marriage.

The great thing about living in a diverse multi-cultural society is that the imperative to protect equal rights must remain intact, especially minority rights. Protecting everyone’s equal rights should have been the moral compass guiding voters, but it was not. Too many people voted based on their religious ideologies. But, that is just it. Living in America, the United States of America gives so many people the right to practice their particular religion freely. That is what makes the United States such a unique a place. Unfortunately, what so many people fail to realize is that since the government has adopted or appropriated the term “marriage” in essence giving it legal legitimacy, it becomes an institution that every citizen should be entitled to fully engage. It does not hurt, harm, redefine or reinterpret anyone’s religion if marriage rights are shared by all members in a society. If your religion only condones one type of marriage as the “right” one, then that is sound and wonderful. Realistically, the United States of American does not have an official religion. Yes, politicians are sworn in Under God, and most all say God bless America. These ceremonial practices may give the impression that the United States follows a national religion, but it does not. Since all religions are not tolerant and/or inclusive organizations, a democratic/republic nation cannot function effectively interpellated to a specific dogma.

Furthermore, civil unions are great. And, they are a step in the right direction. However, separate but equal was abolished in this country. A separate but equal marriage institution would be unconstitutional. Unless, the government divorces itself from the term “marriage” completely, then and only then, would civil unions be constitutional because that is what everyone would be essentially practicing.

Finally, there is a popular saying, “if you do not stand for something, you will fall for anything”. This quote could be used to inspire many feelings, both rational and irrational. But, there is a truth in the sentiment. My fellow GLBT brothers and sisters let us take this opportunity to push for our rights as citizens in this country. Even if you do not want or care about getting married, that is beside the point. This is the kind of discrimination we as Gay Americans face in our generation. Decades before and during the civil rights movement, African-Americans did not have the luxury of being passive about their rights. And, likewise we cannot either. Thus, our battles are harder and often more intricate to defend, but we cannot sit idly and wait for the world to accept us. We have to be willing to stand up for who and what we are.

Obama Wins!

November 4, 2008 will forever be remembered as a historical moment in the United States of America. I believe it is another day when America truly lived up to her potential. Another ceiling has been cracked and the people have spoken. In The Souls of Black Folk, W.E.B. Dubois said, “The problem of the 20th century is the problem of the color line.” This is the 21st century and racial problems persist. And like many African Americans, I believed that pervasive institutionalized racism would continue to keep progress and upward mobility out of our grasps. Yesterday, however, I do believe America showed the world that she can stand for something other than prejudice, discrimination, greed, pre-emptive wars, and hypocrisies. Despite all the obstacles that one’s race may present, one can rise to the challenge; Barack Obama rose to the challenge and captured the highest office in the nation. He is the first African-American/bi-racial President Elect of the United States. This is a great moment. One that none of us should soon forget.

New Music Review: Better than Expected

Pink- Funhouse****

This is a fantastic CD. Pink fills it with heartache and sass. After a tumultuous break-up, Pink manages to channel the pain into an angst filled party anthem jam, "So What", which becomes the perfect opener to this conceptual CD. One might expect "Funhouse" to be overtly sad and depressing, but Pink provides an acceptable balance, dealing with the pain of a break and finding true healing power in writing music that is fun and inspiring. Yes, it is really the fun house, I did not expect. Download- Bad Influence (bad chick party anthem)

John Legend- Evolver****

I did not join the John Legend bandwagon until I heard his first single "Green light". Although I was completely captivated with "Ordinary People" a few years ago, I thought the rest of his music sounded the same. But, on "Evolver," Legend manages to mix it up. With the help of Andre 3000 on "Green light" and other artists Legend manages to create an eclectic and soulful disk. Download, "Quickly," "Satisfaction," and "Take Me Away"

Michelle Williams- Unexpected***

"Unexpected" could not be a more perfect title for this collection of pop gems. William's scores on this disk. She manages to set herself apart from the sleuth of other r&b and pop diva's currently on the radio. The often characterized "quiet one" in Destiny's Child, Williams lets her personality shine on "Unexpected." The songs are a refreshing blend of pure dance pop. Download, "Hello Heartbreak," "The Greatest," and "Hangover"

Lady Gaga- The Fame***

Who is Lady Gaga? Well this might be an appropriate question if she did not have the success of her first single, "Just Dance." But, if you're still hesitant to checkout her music, take a chance; you won't be disappointed. "The Fame" is an interesting mix of electronic and pop with r&b influences sprinkled throughout, possibly to give her some edge. If 90s one hit wonder Jane Child and Kylie Minougue could have a child, then we might get Lady Gaga. Download, "The Fame," "Poker Face," and "Paper Gangsta"

Robin Thicke- Something Else***
The r&b crooner is back with "Something Else". In this aptly titled disk, Thicke certainly offers his listeners something else. If you long for the days of Marvin Gaye, Teddy Pendergrass and Luther Vandross, then put your worries away, Thicke is here to fill in the gap. From the beginning to the end of his CD, Thicke manages to capture the muse for passionate and tantalizing songs. The songs are infectious. This is the kind of blue-eyed soul that keeps you coming back for more. Download, "Magic," "Sidestep," and "Dreamworld"

Pussycat Dolls- Doll Domination***

Well, the dolls return with a finely tuned pop smorgasbord of fun. The dolls maybe hot, hot, hot. But, they manage to reveal some substance on their sophomore effort. The songs border on being way too over produced, but Nicole's vocals manage to retain some semblance of authenticity on an array of tracks. Melody, another one of the dolls manages to spruce up some of the songs with her high pitch soprano, at times it's refreshing. Mainly, the dolls create an exuberant mix of dance music, perfect for pre-clubbing rituals. Download, "Magic," "Elevator," "Who's Gonna Love You"