Ty-DMusic.com: Musicscene 27

Attica Blues does past the 'Test'

Ever since their self-titled debut on Mo' Wax in '96 Attica Blues has steadily become one of the best bands you've never heard of (here in the US that is). In their native UK they're described as bold, bashful and damn right renegadeous when it comes to their sound and that's what comes to mind when I think of these future pioneers of the new sound of well.... new sound.

Like the forefathers before them Attica Blues are stretching the boundaries of music like no other. The band consists of Nwachukwu (programmer), Charlie Dark (DJ) and Roda El-Essawy who's high octane chops remind me very much of Amel Larrieux with a touch of Sade thrown in for good measure.

Their latest release 'Test don't test' (Sony UK) does exactly the opposite of what it suggests. Tracks like 'Deeper', 'It's not enough', 'Mangled' and 'The Man' truly test the brain for how much technology and CGM (Computer Generated Music) you can take. Not forgetting 'Talk to me' reminisce of A tribe called Quest meets Common. The lead off single is the brilliant 'What do you want' with Roda's voice shining brighter than the sun. Remixes provided by Soul Inside and X-Men don't front on this get a copy (if you can)

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Brian McKnight gives you 'The Love of his Life'

Smooth soul maestro Brian McKnight has another hit on his hands with his latest effort 'Love of my Life' (Motown). Brian kicks it up a notch on this one hitting the high note with relative ease I might bringing to mind the likes of Donnie Hathaway or the late but great Motown legend Marvin Gaye. Brian McKnight has another hit on his hands with his latest effort 'Love of my Life' (Motown). Brian kicks it up a notch on this one hitting the high note with relative ease I might bringing to mind the likes of Donnie Hathaway or the late but great Motown legend Marvin Gaye.

After the release 'Back at One' in 99 which to date is his biggest selling record yet you'd think Brian would take some time to relax and be with the family but truth be told he was writing songs for 'Superhero' (the forthcoming album) almost immediately after 'Back at One'. The song went to radio last week and has been well received across the board. The album 'Superhero' will be in stores Aug. 28th so don't sleep I'm sure it will be another scorcher from the brother.

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Lisa 'Left Eye' Lopez solo 'Block Party'

Ahh, Mrs. Lopez or I should say the recently married Lisa 'Left Eye' Lopez you know her, the bubbly, fiery (no bunt intended) member of the mega R&B group TLC who's last album 'Fanmail' gave women all over the globe a reason to cut down us men that didn't fit the mode of 'GOT BANK'. The track in question is the put down anthem of 99 in 'No Scrubs' not to mention the politically correct 'Unpretty' touching all social issues from prejudice to pregnancy.

Well this time around, Lisa ventures out on her own with her debut release 'The Block Party' (on a new label in Arista).The song is a catchy little dance number that's produced by newcomer Salaam Remi a.k.a.'The Chamelean. Lisa flow is straight and catchy but it would be well served it there was a remix added with Artful Dodger putting his twist on things. Lisa serves as executive producer on the album speaking of which the album's called 'Supernova' and will be in stores Sept 14th

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Donnie - Atlanta's very own Donnie Hathaway?

The dirty south has brought some of the hottest acts to the forefront in recent years. The likes of Outkast, JD, G-Love, India Arie and Laurnea comes to mind but newcomer Donnie though not a native of Atlanta (Born in Lexington, KY) who now resides in Atlanta is being compared to the legendary Donnie Hathaway and it's no wonder, to listen to this man sing once you would think the legend himself was on the mic.

The album is called '1st Impression' and it's an instant impression with me on the first listen. 'Heaven sent' and 'You've got a friend' are first class true soul tracks and if Donnie was alive today I'm sure he would smile and say "You remind me of me when I was coming up young man." I can say that I agree that this young man is the real deal and his future looks rather bright. I urge you to not past over this fine young talent you will be disappointed if you do especially soul fans all over.

Unfortunately you can only get his music through mp3.com because no indie nor major label has picked him up yet (where are those executives when you need them eh).