ANGELA'S IPOD

INTERPRETATIONS: CELEBRATING THE MUSIC OF EARTH, WIND, AND FIRE
Various Artists (2007)
3 Stars

What can I say, this is supposed to be an interpretation of the Best of Earth, Wind and Fire. And while I did enjoy this CD, there was little about it that was innovative. Most of the artists played it safe and sung the songs the way they were originally performed by Earth, Wind and Fire (EWF). I am not complaining, but I thought I was going to hear EWF with a modern flair and the lack thereof was disappointing. But perhaps that is because it is hard to improve upon perfection.

That said, I must admit that I do like the CD. The voices are enjoyable and the music is, as it should be, inspiring. My favorites are Kirk Franklin, Ledisi, The Randy Watson Experience, Dwele, Mint Condition and Musiq Soulchild. Kirk Franklin brought his spirit and life to “September.” The funky gospel choir sound really worked for this song. I loved the vocals of Ledisi in “Devotion” and the fun of “Can’t Hide Love” as interpreted by The Randy Watson Experience. Mint Condition enhanced the beauty and gentleness of “After The Love Is Gone” and while Dwele and Musiq Soulchild did not do new versions of “That’s The Way of The World” and “Reasons” respectively, their renderings were strong and memorable. “Fantasy”, a true interpretation by Meshell Ndegeocello was innovative and very interesting.

So, if you like Earth, Wind, and Fire and want to hear it performed by the artists of our time, pick up this CD. It will not set your heart on fire but it will create a spark that will keep you smiling, for at least a while.