Chicago Entertainment and Related Services Search

Event planning company is looking to secure the following from A to Z.
Javi Productions is looking to secure the following services and entertainment for upcoming corporate events in 2010 throughout the Chicago area

Please e-mail your Website, MySpace, and Press Kit (bio, picture, mp3) or Resume to: JAVIHEAVYTALENT@AOL.COM

Acrobats actors, athletes, audio / visual companies

Belly dancers, bartenders, bands, blackjack dealers, balloon artists, basket weavers

Clowns, costume rentals, caterers, character actors, cheerleaders, cigar rollers, cake designers, cirque acts, comedians, classical musicians, carolers,

Dancers, DJs, decorators, decor rentals, domino play instructors

Entertainment of all types and genres, event coordinators

Florist, fire dancers, furniture rentals

Geisha girls, guitar players

Hat makers, heating and cooling services

Ice sculptors, impersonators, image consultants

Junkenoo Bands, jugglers, jazz bands,

Kids characters, kids entertainment

Lighting companies, Latin band's, limousine services, linen rentals, look-alikes

Models, master of ceremonies, make up artists, musicians, magicians

National recording artists, native American acts

Oldies bands, original performance artists, one-man bands , opera singers

Production assistants, photographer's, party rentals

Quality musicians, quartets

Radio personalities, rock bands

Singers, specialty acts, sound companies, set designers, street teams, staging companies, sports commentators, string quartet,security

Table and chair rentals, tent rentals, track acts

Unique entertainers,

Vocalists (all styles), videographers, video production, violinist

Wedding planners, wedding invitations, wedding gowns

Xtreme athletes, extras


PAY VARIES PER EVENT

Battle of the Jazz Bands in Miami

Melton Mustafa
Melton Mustafa has invited you to the event 'Battle of the Jazz Bands' on Miami Carol City Chiefs! Witness the challenge of whose jazz band reigns supreme....

May 11

Location: Joseph Caleb Center Auditorium.

54oo NW 22nd Ave, Miami.

Time: May 11, 2009 from 8pm to 10pm

Organized By: Melton Mustafa

Event Description: Witness the challenge of whose jazz band reigns supreme....Dade meets Broward....May 11 Joseph Caleb Center Auditorium. 54oo NW 22nd Ave, Miami. This free concert will be great for the family!!!! Pass the word!!!

See more details and RSVP on Miami Carol City Chiefs:

http://mccchiefs.ning.com/events/event/show?id=2203114%3AEvent%3A297961&xgi=0WOjAav

Seal Concert 5 Stars

Seal is touring the US this April and May. Not to be missed. See his tour dates here.

ANGELA'S iPOD

ANTHONY DAVID
ACEY DUECY (2008)
4 STARS

In the mood for a blend of blues, R&B, and hip-hop. Check out Acey Deucy by Anthony David. Anthony David is a Georgia native who has spent his whole life writing songs. His new album is being released by the new label Soulbird Music, a new venture between Universal Republic Records and artist India Arie.

David wrote the song "A Part Of My Life" for India Arie's 7x Grammy nominated album Acoustic Soul. He teamed with Arie to co-write and produce "There's Hope" for Arie's third Grammy nominated album and he teamed with Arie again with “Words” on Acey Deucy. In between writing songs with and for India Arie, David released two independent albums, Three Chords & The Truth and Red Clay Chronicles. Both albums received high critical acclaim.

That is important to note because Acey Deucy is not new music. Rather it is a combination of three songs from Three Chords and Red Clay. If you are lucky enough to have those albums don't buy this one. But if you have yet to experience Anthony David, purchase this album. You will be glad you did. He is a riveting story teller and passionately talented guitar player with a stirring voice reminiscent of Bill Withers and Anthony Hamilton.

http://www.anthonydavidmusic.com/

Live Video Interviews From the 2008 Hoodie Awards Red (Blue) Carpet

Interviews by Neonu Jewell
Video by Treva Saunders

Neonu's InSite was live in Las Vegas, Nevada at the Orleans Arena on the Ford Blue Carpet at the 2008 6th Annual Hoodie Awards hosted by Steve Harvey. Check out my interviews and coverage of Shirley Strawberry, Nephew Tommy, Kirk & Tammy Franklin, Noel Gourdin, Dwele, Cupid, comedian Bruce Bruce, "Showroom Shine" the Hoodie Award Winners for Best Detail Shop (St. Louis), Terrence J & Rocsi with Hoodie Award Winner "Fade Shop", Best Barber Shop, Stephen A. Smith, Steve & Marjorie Harvey with Patti LaBelle, Regina King, and Dr. Ian Smith (5o Million LB Challenge) & Sommore.

SEE VIDEO HERE ON YOUTUBE.


Click here for more Hoodie Award photos.

Finally Maxwell Back On Tour!!! 4 Stars

By Neonu Jewell


Update:

I attended the Maxwell concert last Saturday at the Chicago Theater. It was great! Jazmine Sullivan opened. If you listen to R&B radio, you have definitely heard her popular hit "Need U Bad." She sounded good. I like that some of her other songs are a combination of rock and R&B. She is not, however, much of an entertainer but does exude a warm personality. I also think her presentation needs improving. Overall, I give her 3 stars and may buy her CD.

Back to Maxwell... He still sounds and looks good. The new haircut gives him a more mature sex appeal.

The women screamed (okay, so I may have been a little hoarse the next day) and the men who attended should have enjoyed a grand finale at home later. He, too, is not much of an entertainer, but I don't go to see Maxwell expecting a Beyonce or Janet show. I bought tickets to hear his voice and look at him. He delivered.

My criticism is that he sang to many fast songs and the performance could have been longer. I love all of his music, but his ballads are what makes him special. He sang two of his new songs (a release date has not been set for the CD). They were upbeat tunes. My guess is the record label is pushing him to put out commercial "radio hits" after being off the scene so long. His true fans, the ones who will buy the CD, want to hear his beautiful god blessed voice. We need ballads for that.

Click here for tour dates and ticket information.

_____________________________________________________________________

Maxwell Tickets went on sale today at 5:00pm for a Chicago performance October 18. Click Here for tickets and other tour dates. I have my tickets do you?

ANGELA'S iPOD

ESPERANZA SPALDING: HEADS UP (2008) 4 Stars


There has been a lot of buzz around the young bassist and vocalist Spalding. I was curious; so I picked up her album to see if she was as good as I had heard she is. This is her second album and with this album she successfully melds jazz, decent singing, Latin music, soul and R&B. While she is joined by a rotating cast of musicians on this album, it is she who dominates. She plays terrific bass and sings in a sweet manner. You will find textures of Latin-flavored jazz compositions, combinations of tantalizing acoustic bass play, and sultry jazzy sounds. She sings in three languages - English, Spanish, and Portuguese. She plays bass, does the arranging, and acts as her own producer. And, she is only twenty-three years old. Now you may be surprised by the skill, precision & composure of this young artist, but don‘t be. She is clearly a prodigy...

This album is a tasty gem from the minute you press "play." “Ponta De Areia" is a breezy, infectious Spanish gem that blends her voice with a piano grooveline. “I Know You Know” is a real treat. It combines sultry, soulful sounds with some scatting, classic jazz, and the soft touch of a Caribbean beat. She writes and sings a straight ballad on “Fall In.” Her voice and the piano are all you hear, but it is gorgeous and melodic. And with “I Adore You”, she scats to the backdrop of a rich Brazilian Rhumba. To quote one review, “Spalding's bass part here is anything but basic, it's startling in its rhythmic and lyric invention as it adds another harmonic counterpart to the piano and percussive textures."

“She Got To You“ is a provocative number with a delightful saxophone, a quick tempo and driving percussion. “Precious” is a blend of soul and jazz (with an emphasis on soul) done beautifully. It should be on the radio. “Love In Time" showcases her voice over rich jazz tones, while “Mela” is a pure jazz session with a dazzling trumpet and piano solo and a terrific opening bass solo by Spalding.

Ms. Spalding’s latest album is indeed a fascinating display of special skill and talent. I encourage you to check out this album and enjoy this young, musically endowed, jazz artist. If you do so, you will not only find much to delight in, but plenty to be amazed by as well.

Check her out at http://esperanzaspalding.com/

2008 6th Annual Hoodie Awards Hosted by Steve Harvey: 5 Stars

Neonu's InSite was live in Las Vegas, Nevada at the Orleans Arena on the Ford Blue Carpet at the 2008 6th Annual Hoodie Awards hosted by Steve Harvey.





(Left: Shirley Strawberry)

Right: Steve & Marjorie Harvey with Patti LaBelle

Left: "Showroom Shine"
Hoodie Award Best Detail Shop
(St. Louis)

Right: Kirk & Tammy Franklin

Noel Gourdin

Left: Dwele

Right: Terrence J & Rocsi with Hoodie Award Winner "Fade Shop",
Best Barber Shop

Left: Stephen A. Smith

Right: Joe with Jamie Hall (Representing Ford)

Left: Wendy Raquel Robinson & Husband Marco Perkins

Right: Regina King

Left: From Celebrity Fit Club Dr. Ian Smith (5o Million LB Challenge) & Sommore

Right: Cassi & LaVan Davis

Photography by Carmen Allen; Editing by Neonu Jewell

This Week in Chicago

Tuesday, September 9
Jazz at M Lounge
Location: M Lounge, 1520 S. Wabash
Time: 7pm - 10pm

Tuesday September 9 Eric Allen Quartet
Wednesday September 10 Scott Burns Trio
Tuesday September 16 CLOSED
Wednesday September 17 Gary Tu Trio
Tuesday September 23 Quadrangle
Wednesday September 24 Dave Van Der Laan Trio
Tuesday September 30 Julia Huff

Wednesday, September 10

The Garden of Agave Party Series

Event: Featuring complimentary Hornitos cocktails all night long and DJs Flosstradamus, Million $ Mano and Playboy Magazine's Colleen Shannon (aka, the world's sexiest DJ) and Patrycja Mikula.

Location: Galleria Marchetti, 825 W. Erie

Time: 8pm - 1am

RSVP: @ http://www.chicago.going.com/

Thursday, September 11
Neiman Marcus, Michigan Ave. & Lana Jewelry Cocktail Reception
Preview Lana Jewelry Fall Collection
Location: Neiman Marcus Michigan Ave., 4th Fl. Gift Galleries
Time: 5:30 - 7:30
RSVP: 312.694.4023

Winestyles: South African Wine Tasting Event
Location: Winestyles, 1240 S. Michigan Ave.
Time: 6pm - 8pm

Other Upcoming September Events:

• Friday (12) at 6pm, Vosges Chocolate & Wine Pairing. When done the WineStyles way, this pairing is heavenly. Enjoy a variety of plain and flavored chocolates with some exceptional wines. Live music!!! The cost is $15, $10 for wine club members.
• Sunday (14) from 1pm to 6pm. Swap ‘Till You Drop, Free book exchange. Do you have any interesting books you no longer need or want? Well, you can swap them for other books. Come early for the best selections. Feel free to drop off books prior to September 14.
• Monday (22) Spin The Bottle, Not your popular kissing game, but just as delightful. Stop in any time during the day and spin the bottle for a discount on your purchase.
• Friday (26), 20/20 Tasting, Back by popular request is our taste 20 wines for $20. A guaranteed, great time while making new friends. Starts at 5:30pm.
• Sunday (28), Argentina Wine Tasting, 2pm to 5pm. Argentina is the fourth largest wine producing country and WineStyles is proud to have some of its delicious premium varietals for tasting. Live Latin dancers. Cost $5

September Concerts
9/13, Ice Cube @ House of Blues
9/20, Huey Lewis and The News @ The Venue (Horseshoe Casino)
9/21, Rock of Love Featuring Bret Michaels @ The Venue (Horseshoe Casino)
9/24 & 9/25, The Eagles @ United Center
9/25, Janet Jackson @ Allstate Arena Saturday
9/27, Common @ House of Blues

ANGELA'S iPOD

JASON MRAZ
WE SING, WE DANCE, WE STEAL THINGS (2008)
4 STARS

Okay, I can admit when I am wrong. When my daughter suggested I listen to this CD, I told her I wasn’t interested. I had heard some of his other songs and had not been impressed. But, because it is my daughter, and she insisted, I listened. Now, I can say honestly that I really like this CD. It is not junk, drivel or bubblegum stuff that makes you cringe. It is good listening, snap your fingers, laugh out loud, smile, and even feel sad music. It is not about his voice, though it is easy to listen to, with its air of mellowness and sweetness. It is about his voice complimented by the music, the lyrics and the composition. It is all nicely done. You can’t really tell where one starts and the other finishes. I found the CD to be youthful, simple, clear and easy to listen to...

The CD may initially give the impression of being bubble-gum music, especially if you are already close-minded like me. However, if you listen closely you will indeed change your mind. The upbeat tempo of the first song starts to draw you in. This up-tempo jam made me smile and move. With “Live High”, a feel-good song backed up by a gospel chorus and guitar, Mraz tells us to “live high, live mighty, live righteously, taking it easy.” “I’m Yours” is a mix of reggae, acoustics and country that works. His “Love For A Child” is a pretty song with nice crescendos. It is about growing up in a household with parents that are divorcing. It moved me. “Details In The Fabric” is a soft, gentle, melancholy song sung in duet form with James Morrison. In it he calls us to hang in there, singing, “hold your own, know your name, go your own way.” “If It Kills Me”, has a Beatles/Paul McCartney sound and “The Dynamo of Volition” is a fun tune with a great up-tempo beat. There is some singing and some fast talk singing that vaguely resembles rapping. “A Beautiful Mess” is a pretty song with heart-wrenching music. But, one of the most enjoyable songs on this CD is “Butterfly.” When I play this song, everyone (adults and teens) smiles. It is a steamy song and when he sings lines like “let me ride my tongue along your bottom lip and bite down” or “kiss me with your eyelashes tonight”, it is clear where he is going. But rather than turn it into what could have been a crude song, it becomes a happy song that delights listeners with a mélange of poetry, double entendres and plays on words.

Mraz's voice is not amazing. But with his smooth, easy-listening vocals and the ability to rap and scat with ease, it is pleasant to listen to. His album is not award caliber and not every song works, but it can be listened to over and over again. With this CD, it is our turn “to win some or learn some.” He has certainly won me over and I learned a little something about him and myself in the process. I now invite you all to do the same. Listen some … I promise if you “open your mind and see like me” you will enjoy some.

Check him out at http://www.jasonmraz.com/

HBO's The Black List Volume One: 5 Stars

By Neonu Jewell

In the wake of Barack Obama's nomination for President of the United States we have recently seen programming air that would previously have had to wait until February. This is one of the many great results/changes we are beginning to see in this country that have nothing do with politics.

I have heard lots of comments and conversations around CNN's series Black in America. Most people I spoke with had mixed feelings about this series.

I want to tell you about a program you may not have seen, because it did not get the same publicity, The Blacklist Volume One. It is excellent!...

The Black List Volume One is directed by Timothy Greenfield-Sanders, portrait photographer and filmmaker, with interviews by Elvis Mitchell, acclaimed NPR radio host, journalist and former New York Times film critic. The program presents notable African-Americans, through individual portrait vignettes, sharing their insights, experiences, and hopes about being Black in the United States.

Kareem Abdul-Jabaar's and Toni Morrison's portraits resonated and touched me the most. Diddy actually makes a profound statement that made me realize something I had not thought about. I, like many of you, complain frequently about the R&B/Hip Hop music of today. How it all sounds the same and that it is not really creative music made by musicians, just technology and sampling. But Diddy pointed out that the music programs have been cut out of federal public school funding (after my tenure in public school). Wow! Of course! Now we are all hearing the results. Many artists come from disadvantaged backgrounds. The newer generation of existing and budding artists never had the opportunity to learn an instrument. Musical instruments and lessons are expensive, but mixing records or CDs is affordable.

The Black List Volume One is being shown on HBO and is available ON DEMAND, where available through September 21. This program is not to be missed.

Please comment with your thoughts on these programs.

This Week in Atlanta

Sunday, September 7
SUNDAY NIGHT SOIREE Featuring DAYS AHEAD
" Where Neo-Soul and Sexy Collide"

Location: THE GRAPE @ INMAN PARK, 300 N. Highland Avenue
Time: 6pm - 11pm
Cost: $10
A Sexy, Networking, Neo-Soul/ R& B Mixer with the Grown & Sexy in mind. Occurs the 1st Sunday each month at The Grape Wine Bar located in Inman Park. Music by DJ NEAUX. Expect great food, nice atmosphere, and beautiful people. Click Here for more information.



Friday, September 12 -13
The International Soul Music Summit

This is the the larges music conference dedicated to soul music. The Summit provides mainstream, emerging, and independent soul artists, retailers, executives, and consumers with the opportunity to network and information about the tools available to build successful careers and marketing strategies. Click Here for more information.

Labor Day Weekend Concerts

Switch, SOS Band, & DeBarge: 3 Stars

By Neonu Jewell

I was super excited about this concert. So much so that I attended on a night that I normally do not leave the house. You remember Switch and its hits "I Call Your Name" and "There'll Never Be." Two of my favorite songs I must mention. Tommy and Bobby Debarge, two of the original members, died in the early 80's and with them the voices behind these great songs. The new lead singer of the group does not have the voice for these songs. Frankly, he sounded terrible.

This was my second time seeing the SOS Band perform in recent years. They consistently provide a good show. They have a number of hits, notably "Take Your Time (Do It Right)," "Just the Way You Like It,""Weekend Girl," and my favorite "Tell Me If You Still Care."

DeBarge...sigh. The DeBarge family has suffered quite a bit over the years - drugs, death, prison, sickness, and scandals. It seems to have caught up with them. The DeBarge representatives in attendance were El DeBarge, Bunny DeBarge, Chico DeBarge (not an original group member), and some cousins. El can still hit the notes, but he has no breath control and thus cannot really sing the songs. While I am a fan of Chico DeBarge's 1997 album "Long Time No See," at the concert he was a HOT MESS! We had to continually laugh to avoid screaming, because of how bad he sounded and what a distraction he was from El's singing. Bunny should have sang "A Dream," but only sang back up for El.

The only reason this concert rates 3 stars is because the SOS band was good, it was fun singing the songs of my youth, and most importantly it only cost me $16.

Donna Summer: 4 Stars

By Neonu Jewell

You may have heard Donna Summer was on tour with her new CD, "Crayons." I (and what seemed like 50,000 other people) saw her perform at Ravinia, outside of Chicago, and Summer still sounds fantastic! Her music continues to make you want to dance and sing. She sang songs from the past and a few songs from the new CD. The bottom line is go see her live if you can and buy the new CD.

Raphael Saadiq: 5 Stars

By Treva Saunders

Raphael Saadiq performed at the Black Cat in Washington D.C. I loved it! I highly recommend everyone go see his show. It's too bad more people do not recognize his talent. Saadiq debuted a few new songs from his third solo CD, "The Way I See It," and they were great. Saadiq has a knack for creating new music that sounds old school (hence the title of his debut CD "Instant Vintage"). He also performed songs from his two groups Tony Tone Toni and Lucy Pearl.

The background singers were awesome and his band was fantastic. The Black Cat was the perfect intimate setting (although the ambiance is awful) for this concert. It's not often that we get an opportunity to see a true artist like Saadiq. Check out the show if you can and buy the new CD, which will be released September 16.

This Week in South Florida

Through September 30
Recession Relief

Location: The Icebox Café, 1657 Michigan Ave., Miami Beach

The Icebox Cafe has a “Recession Cruncher” dinner menu available Sunday through Thursday until Sept. 30 that features $15 entrees such as chicken paillard provenzale, tofu and vegetable tempura and vegetable skewers. On Sept. 10, the café hosts a five-course, Asian-inspired dinner featuring boutique wineries from California and Australia. Cost is $65. Reserve at 786-201-3505.

Friday, September 5

Cocktails for a Cause

Location: LAVA Tiki Bar & Grille at the Crowne Plaza, 4000 S. Ocean Drive, Hollywood Beach

Time: 6pm - 9pm

Ph: 954-568-7916

Network with the Young Professionals for Covenant House poolside at the Lava Tiki Bar & Grille. At the same time you can benefit homeless, runaway and at-risk kids served by Covenant House Florida. Suggested $5 donation at door. To reserve your spot and receive complimentary valet and drink tickets, email your first and last name

Saturday, September 6

MIAMI DOLPHINS ‘ A New Beginning’
Location: Cefalo’s Wine Cellar,3540 Main Hwy., Coconut Grove

Time: 6:30pm - 8:30pm

Contacts: 305-971-2400; 305-213-2881; http://www.cefaloswine.com/

Celebrate a new beg inning for the Dolphins with team alumni Nat Moore and Jimmy Cefalo, the Cheerleaders and team executives, including Bryan Wiedmeier, the team’s president. Wine and appetizers available.

Bark Brunch At the Oasis

Location: Raleigh Hotel, 1775 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach

Time: 10:00am - 12pm

Cost: Admission is free for all dogs, $45 for HMSF members and $55 for non-members

Ph: 305-375-5356

Hosted by the Historical Museum of Southern Florida, bring your furry friend along for brunch, mimosas, canine competitions, auction, doggie massages, and, of course, real doggie bags! Your admission includes a chance to win a two-night stay for two (pets allowed) in a luxurious Oceanfront King Room at the Raleigh. Additional raffle tickets are $10. RSVP required by phone or email.

Sunday, September 7

Jazz Brunch at the Regent Bal Harbour

Location: The Regent Bal Harbour, 10295 Collins Avenue, Bal Harbour

Time: 12pm - 3:30pm

Cost: $67 pp

Ph: 305-455-5460

Nicole Henry, an award-winning jazz vocalist, will perform selections from her newest album "The Very Thought of You," this Sunday at the Jazz Brunch Buffet at The Regent Bal Harbour. Join Love 94's Stu Grant who will be broadcasting live and enjoy a delightful blend of taste and sound with an exquisite buffet and free-flowing Mimosas and Bloody Marys. A different jazz artist performs each Sunday. Click Here for more info about Nicole Henry.

ANGELA'S IPOD

HIL ST. SOUL BLACK ROSE (2008)
3.5 STARS

This is the newest album by Hil St. Soul and while not as spectacular as “SOULidified” it is still a keeper. If you buy it, you are going to be in for a treat! They keep the same ingredients from their prior CDs flowing in this CD. It has well written, articulated and projected lyrics, harmonious productions and silky, soulful tones. The CD is at once exquisite, cool and strong.

The first track, "Wash Away" brings flavor as Hilary Mwelwa caresses the harmonies and the music brings you a tight groove line. Interesting and unexpected, the double entendre lyrics seem to speak to self-pride and to how those of the fairer persuasion, who sing soul, are given more credit than those of the darker hue: "Don't get it twisted, 'cause I gotta speak my mind/I'm not trying to split hairs, but I gotta bee in my bonnet/English rose singing soul music, they get praised for it/A black rose singing soul music gets no love for it."

In "Don't Forget The Ghetto", easily the best song on the album, we are presented with an insightful and inspiring cautionary message that reminds people not to forget their roots. “Sweetest Days" slows the tempo down a little bit. This is a song that reminisces about the past, but the stand out is her voice which sounds as rich and thick as a spoonful of honey. "We Were In Love" is a lush, rich song about a fractious relationship. "Broken Again" is an ultra-slow, heavy bass groove that follows a woman through the painful, yet cleansing process of mending her broken heart and “Gravity“ is a sexy song of love. "If I Was You" is an ironically deceptive upbeat groove about domestic abuse. In it, she advises a battered girlfriend to escape her abuser, saying, "I'd pack my bags, leave his a**, take a chance, play the wild card." And "Smile" is a beautiful mid-tempo song.

The beauty of Hil St. Soul is in the execution. Black Rose is a solid CD that combines soul with jazz and a little hip-hop. The production is crisp and perfect and the lyrics well written. The collaboration is solid and interesting enough to immediately draw you in. The beats have just enough of a progressive edge to keep things sounding new. Finally, a mid-tempo groove persists throughout much of the album. This makes for smooth, easy listen that will keep your head nodding from beginning to end. Ultimately, my suggestion is to pick this one up. You will be glad you did.

Check them out at http://www.myspace.com/hilstsoul

ANGELA'S IPOD

VIKTER DUPLAIX

BOLD AND BEAUTIFUL (2006)

3 Stars

Do any of you remember the days of the  “black light?” You know, when parties took place in the basement, in the dark; and, everyone was hot and sweaty and grinding to seductive tunes on their stereo. That is what listening to the best of Vikter makes me think of. He is no great singer or lyricist but he is seductive, even mesmerizing at times. He is also very laid back and does a good job of blending jazz with ethnic, urban grooves...

“Make A Baby” and “Fade It” are very pretty. “The Way That I Feel” is definitely a song you want to play when that special someone is over for a…romantic dinner. “Another Great Love Gone By” is very sultry, nicely layered and features lush background vocals. And, “Pure” and “Temple of Thoughts” are a breath of fresh air as the CD’s only mid-tempo tracks.

When it is good, and it is often good, his music works. It is for quiet…intimate moments. It is also good background music for an intimate gathering or for when you need to mellow out or de-stress. But beware, his music is so soft and laid back, it just might put you to sleep or, at its worst, bore you to tears. So are you in the mood for something a little different? At home with that special someone? Need to unwind? Put in Vikter. He will do the trick.

Check him out at http://www.vikterduplaix.com/main.html

ANGELA'S IPOD

HIL ST. SOUL
SOULIDIFIED (2006)
4 Stars

Hil St. Soul is a British group that appears to be virtually unknown in America or at least they have gotten little, if any, exposure in America. The name, Hil St. Soul, is a play on the name of the '80s TV drama Hill Street Blues and the group consists of Zambian-born vocalist Hilary Mwelwa and her musical partner Victor Redwood Sawyer. Soulidified is their third collaboration.

It is an astonishing effort that grabbed on to me and held my attention with its smooth, compelling vocals, great lyrics and masterful production. The vocal range of Hilary coupled with Victor's wonderful production is virtually unrivaled. This is soul music as it is meant to be: funky, fun, sexy and straight from the heart.

The album contains mostly ballads and mid-tempo tracks which have a sexy feel to them. And while the lead singer, Hilary Mwelwa doesn���t often stray from her range, her vocals are strong and commanding and her tones classically smooth, like a nice aged Cabernet. Even her lyrics are dense and complex, with plenty of imagery.

This CD is a blend of traditional R&B, jazz, blues and hip-hop done with a modern flavor. Though the music switches vibes from track to track, Hil St. Soul moves through the transitions with ease and style Soulidified starts out strong with "Hey Boy" where she asks "Baby take your time...I want to feel the wave of your emotion" and "Sweet On You," two upbeat numbers. These songs confidently serve us this group's warm, inviting sound. On the funky "2 Good to Be True", Mwelwa���s voice soars above strong drums and a groovy bass as she recalls a long-term relationship that has gone awry.

From the soft, gentle jazz of "Goodbye" to the hip-hop grooves of "Smokie Joint", their sound remains true. King Reign���s appearance on ���Smoky Joint��� adds the smoke to this real groove tune and Dwele���s appearance on ���Baby Come Over��� is a true blending of voices in this sultry ballad. The group even closes out the album strong with "One Of A Kind" and "Time For Love"; two seductive ballads that are perfect for listening to with that someone special.

Listen to this CD and you will agree that Hil St. Soul succeeds where many soul acts falter when trying to diversify their sound. They easily transition through these changes. Soulidified is a complete album through and through. It���s songs fill the heart with positive vibes and relaxed beats.

Check them out at www.myspace.com/hilstsoul
They have a new CD out, watch for that review in the coming weeks.

ANGELA'S IPOD

LIV WARFIELD
EMBRACE ME 2006/2007
4.5 Stars

From the first notes of the funky bass line you know you are in for a treat. Then, the husky, sultry tones of Liv Warfield joins the beat and you smile. Who knew such warm, sexiness could emerge from Portland, Oregon, her home town. Nevertheless, this newcomer is a force to be reckoned with. She is terrific and her potential is unlimited, especially if her first album is any indication of what is in store for us.

Listening to her CD will clearly be a sultry journey. And, sure enough, off you go on a slow, warm, lush journey into the heart and soul of a true chanteuse. Liz Warfield can sing. She blends rhythm and blues, neo-soul and hip-hop with a body and fullness few others can touch. And, she can scat. I’ve read reviews that describe her as “a singer who organically blends classic soul, electric rock, sultry rhythm and straight-up sexy blues like Tina Turner—and it’s only the beginning.” they couldn’t be more accurate.

Her CD features a collection of sexy, mid-tempo grooves that can be enjoyed from beginning to end. Her lyrical clarity, incredible vocal conviction and timeless arrangements are brilliant and the musical composition is lush and funky. Her very first track, “ABC’s”, starts with a great bass line and features Bernard “Pretty” Purdie on the drums. It is a good track to start with as it sets the tone for the rest of the CD. “Work For Me“, “Waiting”, and “Sophisticated Sista” are each a mid-tempo, band driven, soul-sounding, heavy groove that captivates you, and her slower tunes - “Feeling Lonely”, “Time”, and “I Decided” are beautiful, soft and intimate. But my favorite, is the title track, "Embrace Me." It is soft, sensual and warm. Especially when she croons, "can a woman want, can a woman get a little bit of your precious feelings." You can tell she is sharing a little bit of her softer, intimate self.

Liv Warfield is a real artist and I am glad to hear at least some of her music being played. With Liv, there is just pure talent. Her songs are powerfully-sung celebrations of happiness and the lyrics are nicely written, meaningful and expressive. My suggestion, check out Ms. Liv Warfield. Whether she’s passionately belting out a groove tune or whispering a love ballad, the singer’s heart is clearly true and her passion is front and center.

Check her out at http://www.livmymusic.com/

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.

ANGELA'S IPOD

CHRISETTE MICHELE
I AM (2007)
4 Stars

Okay, okay, so most of you have, by now, heard and fallen in love with Chrisette Michele (2008 BET Award nominee). But I would be remiss if I did not mention that she is, indeed, in my iPod and played frequently. I enjoy all of her album. Chrisette Michele may be signed to the hip-hop label, Def Jam, but her music is an old-fashioned blend of R & B and Jazz. This is her debut album, which she also co-wrote, and she establishes herself as an artist, in her own right. While her singing style may call to mind the likes of Erykah Badu, Billie Holiday or Jill Scott, her well-polished voice is as bright and sunny as her apparent outlook on life. She is fresh and exciting and I hope she sticks around.

On “I Am“, Chrisette successfully incorporates R&B, hip-hop and jazz. Some songs, like the opening track, "Like a Dream," sound more like a jazz jam and other songs are "unabashed odes to a bygone era." For instance, on "Golden," she sings about yearning for a committed relationship: "I'm so ready to be like the olden days when commitment was golden."
A couple of songs on the album are hip hop-influenced: the up-beat "Be OK," and the feel-good party song "Let's Rock." With this song, she gives you a clue to her music mentors, she sings: “Wanna rock with the Chris on the microphone? I was studying Miss Billie, Miss Ella, Miss Sarah Vaughan>" There’s "Good Girl," a catchy, bass and percussion-driven jam. It proves that you can actually make a song about being a good person that's compelling.

Chrisette knows how to work a song and her voice. She resonates on “Let’s Rock”, sounds rich on the bossa nova inspired “Best Of Me” and soothes on the lullaby-like “Your Joy”, which is written about her father. Chrisette sings beautifully about how much this man means to her. Most impressive was that she chose to sing a song that was not about sex, money, drugs or having, needing, wanting or getting over a man. Not that she doesn’t sing about some of those themes. She does sing songs of love, fidelity and commitment. On ''Be OK,'' featuring Will.I Am, of The Black Eyed Peas, Chrisette sings ''Imma' take my Lexus to the mall, Get a little black dress just because,'' which is about starting over after losing an old lover.

Chrisette stands out because she is a talented singer, writes her own music, and plays the piano. She has a deep, seductive vocal range, rich, jazzy tones and her lyrics showcase the fresh, sunny optimism of youth. Although this is her debut album, this talented 25-year-old has the potential to be a real force in today's "modern jazz/neo-soul" genre. Her album has an old-school sound, style and sensibility, despite being only in her mid-20s. If you're a fan of old-fashioned R & B and jazz music with lots of positive emotions, then this is the album for you.

Check her out at: www.chrisettemichele.com