Fall Music Reviews

Joe

It’s a new beginning for Joe with the release of “New Man.” Coming out of the shadows of Jive Records, Joe is his own man on 563 Music Kedar Entertainment group. Accompanied by a host of industry heavy weights… Nas, The Game, Busta Rhymes, Mario, Trey Songs, Snoop and P. Diddy; Joe pulls out all the stops. "Why Just be Friends” is a new two-step anthem that I can hold my drink to and hum along. The smooth falsetto vocals are favorable. This mid-temp track expresses the dilemma of a man trying to take a friendship to the next level; as Joe calls it, “gets caught in the friend zone too many times.” In “ER” he parallels his plight for love with a medical emergency that is sure to please the die-hard Joe enthusiast. Also look for the Secret Garden-like “We Need to Roll” featuring Trey Songs and Mario. Joe Thomas: New Man is in stores now.

Solange Knowles

This chic R&B darling is changing up the game with her highly anticipated sophomore album, Sol-Angel and The Hadley Street Dreams. Solange Knowles is redefining her game, with her first single “I Decided” which is firing up on the Billboard Dance singles chart. The finger snappin’ refreshing second single “Sandcastle Disco” is indeed the invigorating sounds that radio has been missing.

Janelle Monae

The latest addition to Diddy’s band of merry men on Bad Boy Records is the futuristic, soulful and pure genius that is Janelle Monae. The extraordinary afro-Punk Darling just released Metropolis: The Chase Suite, her second EP which furnishes fans with a dose of high tech, and new wave sounds, adding perpetual hunger for what her debut album will sound like when it hits stores at the top of 2009.

Q-Tip

Innovator and Hip-Hop Icon Q-Tip hits the pavement with his new release The Renaissance. Fresh off the Rock the Bells tour Q-Tip is ready to work it. With the intro voiced by presidential hopeful, Barack Obama we have to give Q-Tip a virtual high-five. Although I wasn’t moved by his first single “Work it Out,” (His Budweiser commercial was more enjoyable) I’ll give this rap pioneer a hood pass. I’m sure the album will be much better when it’s released November 4th, with guest appearances from Common, Andre’ 3000 and the resurface of D’Angelo. I’m routing for your Tip!

Eric Benet

Love & Life are moving in the right direction for Eric Benet. With total creative control, Eric has produced a sound of pure soul that feels like a personal hug. The lead single “You’re the Only One,” is the perfect back drop while unwinding on the couch with a cup of tea or a relaxing in an aromatherapy bath. Eric’s honesty cuts like a knife in “Still I Believe” sharing his perfect moments and moments of despair. Eric’s music is moving and motivating. He is a music lovers dream. Light a candle and indulge.