Welcome to the "GIVE IT TO MIKEY.
HE'LL PLAY IT, REVIEW PAGE". You're going to find a sometimes lengthy,
sometimes brief review of music that Shaggers, Swingers, Hand dancers, Boppers
and the jocks utilize in the dance world we move about in. Please note the dates noted beside the
reviews are the date the reviews were written. A loyal reader made that
suggestion so I've just begun adding the review dates.
GIVE
TO MIKEY! HE'LL PLAY IT!
MUSIC
REVIEWS
Donny & Susan
Trexler: The Edge of Paradise: October
2007:
I’ve known and watched Donny and Susan
Trexler over the past oh too many years to count. I must say this latest release by this
seasoned pair is probably their best offering to date! Containing something new, something old,
something barrowed and something blues it was a true pleasure and honor to
hear.
Containing a total of 14 tracks it covers
instrumentals, duets and solos by Donny and Susan. Their use of Mark Black and Chris Laborer
both exceptionally talented Sax players was truly appreciated. Speaking of appreciated, now I have myself a
real problem! You see I typically try to
note a couple of tracks that truly blow me away but because in releasing
something Old and something Blue Donny
and Susan have re-released new mixes of some good product that we all liked
previously. Yielding a problem for me in
that I may sound like I am praising old material. But far from it, these alternate or new mixes
have taken the original product to another level. So having said that let me do a brief comment
of a few of the tracks. Please note that
me not mentioning a tract doesn’t mean I didn’t consider it good, no far from
it. It simply means I got lazy and
didn’t wish to be more verbose than I already am.
To begin with track 2 “Out of My Mind” a
tune crafted for Susan in 1983 by Duke Hall
is a fine example of the good use of stacked vocals, deftly utilized
reverb, a bit of support from Donny with a sold performance by Susan. The track is at a tempo that dancers should
do well and you listeners will enjoy.
Both versions of “Memories & Souvenirs” are upbeat, grand
productions each with a lead focus. The
version with Susan (Track 4) provides one image while track 14 shows us another
feature through the deft performance of Mark Black on his saxophone. Susan’s smoking delivery of the sexually
tempered
Classic was framed just right with the
simple yet elegant muted trumpet performed by Chris LaBarbera. Of course I would be negligent if I failed to
mention at least one of Donny’s blues tracks but to single out one or the other
would be unfair. So let me say that
“Tired of Pulling This train” and “Make Time For Me” are solid real down home
southern blues. Last but not least I
have to comment on the “Jazzy” version of “Miami”, track 11. If you like the original release you are
going to LOVE this version. A version
that will make ANY jazz diva smile and shout mmmm….GOOD!
On the “Ole Give It To Mikey, He’ll Play It
Rating Scale” this project is without a doubt a rock solid A. Deservedly so for its production, artist’s
performance, quality and quantity of material: Material which dancers and
wallflowers alike will enjoy.
Availability on this one is unknown but I am sure if you go to www.donnyandsusantrexler.com
you will find a link which will surely satisfy you desire to obtain this most
worthy product.
Soulful Provider: Jackie
Gore: Forevermore Records: September 2007:
You know there is always something mystical
that creeps into ones mind when you think of Jackie Gore or perhaps the word
mystical isn’t exactly correct perhaps legendary would be more
appropriate. You see throughout Jackie’s
4 score + years in the recording industry he always seems to reinvent
himself. Providing us a new product but
yet retaining something of the old that we all can relate to. Such is the case with this latest offering
from Jackie and Forevermore Records. Composed of twelve tracks, some new some
previously released on earlier products, this work shows a true blending of
talents. Of coarse I am speaking of
Jackie but I am also speaking of the talents of Chris Biehler (Producer) and
the folks at Forevermore. Whether it is
in the upbeat beach sound of Track one “Where did I go wrong” or the
sophisticated love ballad of Track Five “Over and Over Again” there is truly
something there for everyone on this first rate production. The use of real strings, horns and their
melding with electronic technology is a grand example of quality production.
As is my custom I like to point out a few of
the tracks which are my personal favorites so here goes. Track 2 “Just a Kiss Away”, offers us with a classic
easy dancer with its light fun theme, supporting keyboards, synthesizer and
stacked vocals all playing to position Jackie up front and center stage. Another favorite which was previously
released on another project but hey when it’s good I enjoy relistening to Track
Five “Over and Over Again” with Russell Thompkins Jr. doing the background
lyrical title hook with a simple sculpted background that again frames Jackie
which should make this one a perpetual belly rubber for you slow dance folks.
Lastly another track which was also released previously is the truly
sophisticated cha cha of “My Unknown Love”.
Talk about a sexy feel! Man this
one just smolders and with Jackie’s smooth presentation supported by the deftly
deliver percussion track along with a hint of sax support appearing throughout
this one remains a true winner. Now
don’t go thinking that this is all there is to this project. No sir, the twelve tracks are individually
different and well worth the price no matter what your tastes you will find
something on this project to pique your taste buds.
On the “Ole Give It To Mikey,
He’ll Play it Rating Scale” this one is without a doubt a solid A. Performance, Production and pride of work is
evident in this album. So whether you
are a follower of Jackie Gore or someone who has yet to be introduced to him
you will want to add this album to your collection. It should be available any and everywhere
Forevermore Records are sold.
THE EMBERS: THE SHOW MUST GO ON: BLUEWATER RECORDINGS:
JULY 2007:
It has been several years since The Embers
and Bluewater Recordings had a release.
The music world has been hearing rumors for sometime of the forthcoming
project. Well, the long wait is
over. I have been privy to be one of a
few to receive an advance copy of this truly phenomenal project. My first listen nearly resulted in me picking
up the phone and calling the Producer “Charles Wallert” to ask him what soul
group had he hired to replace the group of shiny white faces known as “The
Embers”. That’s right the Ember have
truly embraced the soul sound of Motown and “Philly” through their use of
dueling lead singers (Wayne Free & Jerry Tellier) paired with the use of
full background vocals, orchestration utilizing real strings, horns, creative
percussive instrumentation and what I will call intuitive musicality. This to me means bringing a musical feature
to its natural resolution harmonically and performance wise. Jerry and Wayne as lead vocalists each
provide us with a believable emotional interpretation individually or when
engaged in musical exchanges and interchanges.
The out front use of dual leads or supporting leads out front and stage
center with grand modulations, harmonic balance and offset all reflect the best
of what keeps drawing generations back to the Motown & Philly Sound. This project contains twelve tracks ranging
from covers of little heard works by the late O.C. Smith, George Benson and
Yolanda Adams to original product created specifically for this album.
As is my custom I generally note my
favorites but unfortunately of the 12 tracks I am having a bit of difficulty
selecting two or three. However, I
will single out a few but remember the others that are not selected for comment
are of no less quality. Let me begin
with track one “The Last Time I’m Sayin’ Goodbye”. A grand piece that
immediately grabs your attention and says “Listen”: containing intricate blends
of background vocal harmonies and instrumentation overlaid with a solid strong
lead. Musically, its use of modulations
along with instrument and vocal presence placement makes this one to
remember. Moving on to track two “You
Mean The World To Me Sweetheart” you discover a cover of a song written by
Steals and previously performed by the late O.C. Smith. It utilizes full orchestration, double leads
and easy tempo, which simply bring it to another level as related to its
original version. Track five “Never Give
Up” originally performed by Yolanda Adams and written by Adams, Harris, Lewis
and Wright for Yolanda’s “The Best of Me” album features Wayne’s lead, a very
sophisticated use of percussive instruments along with a very catchy
lyric. Track seven “The Show Must Go On”
is without a doubt a song not only for the musicians performing it but also for
anyone who has ever had to push on through despite all odds. Deceptively simple in its construction,
My final comment on individual tracks
focuses on track 8. A duet performed by
Jerry Tellier and LaTanya Hall. Their vocal blends have the musical consistency
of homemade vanilla ice cream with hot fudge swilled on, in and around it. It short it is well balanced in all facets.
On The “Ole Give It To Mikey, He’ll Play It
Rating Scale” this project is without a doubt a very strong A+. It contains multiple dance tracks for all
forms of swing, inclusive of Carolina, East and West Coast Swing, Cha Cha, Fox
Trot and of coarse the snuggle up and let’s get personal Belly Rubber. Additionally, the album offers something for
the various recognized categories ranging from Soul, R n B, and Urban, to Adult
Contemporary which no recent product produced by a Carolina based group has
delivered. That is National
Marketability and Mass Appeal. Now this
may not sit well with the so-called Beach Music purists but if you really look
back to the day when the kids came to the beach to discover music that mom and
dad would not approve of…. Well… you would find a sound that is clearly
reflected here in todays more evolved and sophisticated form. Great Job Embers and Bluewater Recordings for
giving us a product that will make waves from coast to coast for sometime to
come.
The Flashbacks: A love to Call Mine: from Beach Nights: (May
2007)
You know the Flashbacks have been working
hard for years to develop a sound that is their own. In this track, Wendy presents a clear clean
and well-balanced presence. The background
instrumentation is where it should be and it allows Wendy to come through. The use of vocal stacking is appropriate and
where it should be. Production wise I do
not have an issue, as it is clean and clear with ample musical
instrumentation. The only true issue I
have is with the wordiness of the lyric.
It tend to be a bit long each time it goes into the refrain which has
one of those sounds that once you’ve heard it you’re going to have it echoing
around in your head for a very long time.
But, hey isn’t that why they call it a hook? Since this is only a track off a full project
which is in process I will not give it an over all rating. But as a stand alone this one is a sold B.
Barbara Carr: It’s My Time:
Ecko Records: ECD1092: (June 2007)
Sister Carr has given us another peek into
the woman behind the mask with this latest offering from Ecko Records. This one is not a typical Ecko cookie cutter
production. No Sir… Instrumentation is
real, well produced with positioning of Horns, keyboards, guitars and drums in
that just right spot that adds to Barbara’s soulful interpretations throughout
the project.
Multiple tracks are present which you
dancers are doing to like. My personal
favorites Begin with the gutsy blues track entitled “It Sho Was Me At The Hole
In The Wall”. A steady driven beat with
a fine harp ranging throughout the background makes this an easy shuffle that
will bring folks to the floor. Next I
found track 8 “A Woman Can Take It and She Can Dish It Out” is a Blues Track
with ATTITUDE. Finally, “Love Triangle”,
track 10, is a bump and grinder that Barbara delivers in a knowing way that
make you believe the story.
On the “Ole Give It To Mikey, He’ll Play It
Rating Scale” this one is a Solid B.
Although it contains multiple tracks that I enjoyed immensely it simply
didn’t have that one tune that jumped up above the rest that said WOW… I have
to have that one.
Availability on this one should not be a
problem as Barbara is a Staple in the Ecko Stable meaning this offering can be
found wherever Ecko is Sold.
Boys Club & A Babe: Oh What A Night and Just My Baby &
Me: Summer 2007:
Well
Johnny Cobb: Jump Into MY
Fire: Spring 2007:
If gutsy vocals with a steady beat, strong
keyboards and a bodacious background guitar are your thing…well you will
without a doubt love this well produced project. A great lyric and melody that circles around
and makes listening the real deal. Yes…
you dancers who want a smooth sophisticated track to shuffle on this on is
right on. So be sure to check it out. On
the “Ole Give It To Mikey, He’ll Play it Rating Scale this one is a SOLID
A. Look for it to add to your
collection.
Monomusical: Rickie Fox:
(June, 2007):
Rickie has been around for sometime but this
latest offering makes me want to scratch my balding head and say “Where and you
been and why haven’t we heard more of you”.
This self produced product has short comings
which come from what I will speculate are due solely to funding issues. This is clearly demonstrated with the use of
a synthesizer vs. real horns and Rickie doing double and trip work in
backgrounds and playing other instruments.
Never the less this should NOT take away from all that is good about
this project. No sir, to begin with
Rickie’s song selection, framing and presentation clearly brings up images of
Boz Skaggs in his smooth and easy blendings.
Next let us not forget that Rickie in addition to being a slick vocalist
he is a top drawer guitar player with obvious blues and rock influences. Finally, I must tell you that 70 percent of
this project was written by Rickie and although he does put his own stamp on
the covers it is the new material that caught my attention. On the new material there are five (5) which
I personally like as dance songs. Two of
which are absolutely swing and three that will work for West Coast and East
Coast Shag. The best swing tune is an up
tempo Blues tempered track entitled “I Get Blamed For Everything I Do”. A fun 144 BPM original tune that makes you
want to move. Another which is a bona
fide belly rubber of the first order is track ten (10) “Back To You”… my oh my
this one is a classic snuggle up and canoodle song!
On the “Ole Give It to Mikey He’ll Play It
Rating Scale” this one is undoubtly an A.
Multiple danceable tracks, fine listening that is likeable first time
through. Without a doubt Rickie could
have had an A+ here if he would have used the Real Horns called for throughout
the project and a Hammond B3 over synthesizers and keyboards. It may be hard to find but due make the
effort and go to www.RickieFox.com
and order it directly from the man!
Ms. Jody: What You Gonna Do
When The Rent Is Due? Ecko Records: ECD
1086: April 2007:
Although this latest release from Ecko has
that classic Ecko sound, there are several tracks, which piqued these ole boy's
ears. Of those my personal favorite is
“We’ve Got To Cheat On Schedule” Not
only is it a funny title with a tongue in cheek lyric but it has a really solid
beat and good vocals presentation that says “this one dances”. Check, it out I think you will agree it is a
good hoofer!
On the “Ole Give It To Mikey, He’ll Play It
Rating Chart” this one is a C+ but it does offer at least one better than
average track that you could say makes it work the price. Availability on this on is not a problem as
it can be found anywhere Ecko is sold.
The Orlons: Smooth &
Groove: Summer 2007:
Old School in sound, and presentation the
Orlons with lead singer and original Orlon Stephen Caldwell Sr. rock on track 1
“I Been Counted Out”. In true old school
fashion, a flaming sax bridge pulls this 2 minute 56 second tune together and
holds it together with its background fortification throughout just like super
glue. You jump and jitterbug folks will
have to add this latest offering from the Original Orlons to your
collection. Track two “I Found You” is a
top-drawer belly rubber of the first order.
Stephens’s melodious lead is clear, clean and heart felt while being
support by classic harmonies and a simple piano, tambourine and bass. Presented in an extended version this one is
sure to find its place in the halls of forever.
This one maybe hard to find but can be obtained from the Orlons website
at www.theorlons.com. On the ole “Give It To Mikey, He’ll Play It
Rating Scale” this one project which is the pre-release to a full album is an
unadulterated A+. Which is high praise
but when a group has been around since the 1950’s and has maintained it’s
musical integrity what else would you expect.
Walking On The Beach; Royal
Scotsmen band: (May 2007)
This product was released prior to Spring
SOS and I had listened to it several times and had avoided writing a
review. However, Recently at Beach Music
Day in
Scotsmen, do yourself a favor, get a lead
singer, take some pride in your presentation, fill the product up with musical
presence and don’t release another project until you have someone with an ear
objectively listen to each track as a critic.
If you do that, you will save yourself from further embarrassment.
MEAT MAN: Lee Shot Williams: Ecko Records: ECD1086: January 2007:
Brother Lee Shot Williams definitely has that soulful flavor in all of his tunes. Yep he comes out with the real deal. Although the record company is pushing the title track, “Meat Man” it really does not work for a dance track. However, for a midnight to late night groover for general parties it works well. It is blue and exudes sexuality. Track 5 “I Got What I wanted But I lost what I had is one with a solid beat, a true blues lyric and all of adult color one expects for you dance folks. Track 7 “Ease On Down In The Bed, Live Version” is just as colorful as the title plays it to be, just do not play it to a family crowd.
Overall, this one despite the usual Ecko sound has something, which I personally like and that is Brother Williams’ gutsy delivery. On the “Ole Give It Mikey He’ll Play It, Rating Scale” I have to give this one a B. Bless Brother Williams for his heart-felt delivery. This one is available anywhere Ecko is sold.
Produced by
To make my point
I will tell you which are my favorites and they each are a different form just
for good measure. Track one, “Christmas at the Coast” is an original
piece by
On the “Ole Give It To Mikey, He’ll Play It Rating Scale” this one is a solid B+. It could have been an A easily and may be in your book but as I said, there are a few tracks performers who just missed the mark. Availability on this one is unknown but is certainly in your local mom and pop shop. If they do not have it, then get it. You will want to add it to your Beach Music Seasonal Collection.
Measure of Blues: Various Artists: Beach Bag 2411: December 2006
Performers from Big Joe Maher, Susan Trexler to Jay Jay Jenkins add to the difficulty that I experienced when trying to select my favorites. So as to not offend anyone let me say I am only going to note a few but if I do not mention your track don’t take offense I just simply couldn’t list them all. The First track on this project caught my attention Entitled “ I’m Going Fishin Baby” Is a classic blues shuffle performed as only the late Bill Deal and the Rhondels could do. “Walkin Blue” Performed by Tom Principato is another solid shuffle that ahs an underlying energy that makes one want boogie. The last track that I will note is one of several instrumentals found on this project but it is certainly not the least. As those of you know I frequently complain that there are not enough good instrumentals out there. Well this one is good and it certainly is now out there. It’s entitled “Begin the Beguine”. Yep it’s the same one that Johnny Mathis did but it is instrumental and it is simply good.
On the ole “Give It To Mikey He’ll Play It Rating Scale, this one is another Solid A for Beach Bag Production. Ample Diversity, good production and artists who get it and know how to give it, availability is unknown so check with brother Marc at 954-976-6799 or email him at beachbag@bellsouth.net. He will be happy to direct you to the distributors.
Get Ready for the Truetones:
I receive many
promos, rough cuts and samples from groups up and down, over and under and all
around the country. When I saw this one: Read the name along with the
promotional flier I said… yeah sure, another
Without a doubt, I would recommend this solid album to not only beach music fans but also folks who enjoy real music presented in a well-engineered and produced fashion that clearly reflects the abilities of the performers. On the “Ole Give It To Mikey, He’ll Play It Rating Scale” this one is without a doubt an A. Good selection of material professionally performed and masterfully produced and engineered. Since this is an independent project I am not sure how or who is doing the distributing but if your mom and pop shop doesn’t have it check it out on the web at www.billyeffords.com
Angel’s Nu-Soul Explosion: Produced by Angel Rissoff and Seth Glassman: September 2006:
I have just completed my third listen of Soul Explosion and I have to say the name hits this sixteen track project right on the nose. Containing a mix of original material and covers this one is nothing but soul. Soul ranging from the old school cover of “You’re So Fine” performed by Gary “Gotta Gotta” Lovett, through the New Orleans flavored soul of Dr. John on “Dixie Dog” and the contemporary adult contemporary sophisticated soul sounds of Rosalinde Block Party ”Never Known Love”. And let me NOT forget to mention just a dash of Latin Soul can be found in “Mighty cootie fiyo” performed by Jr. Mintz Blues Machine with Angel Rissoff. The total project comes closest to representing the New soul sounds of today while maintaining contact with its old school roots of any other projects that I have heard of late.
My personal
favorites are “Soothe You” performed by Angel, “Big Fun Tonight” Danny Draher
and Fonda Feingold’s original “Love You Should Have Stayed”. Each of
these is distinctive but yet has the common thread of originality, freshness
and simplistic energy and drive that comes through. Finally, I would be
less than honest if I didn’t add Dr. John’s offering of “
On the “Ole Give It To Mikey, He’ll Play It Rating Scale” this one is a solid A. This project received this ranking due to its variety of material and artists all the while holding true to the soul concept. This is a Pre-Release promo so I don’t have any information on where to obtain it. But I believe you might find it if you go to www.angelmusicinc.com.
WWW.Beachmusic45.com Presents: Sounds Of Summer: September, 2006:
A compilation
with a descriptive title that is accurate…. Who could believe it? Well
the folks at Beachmusic45 have done it in this offering which runs the gamut
from the contemporary R N B sound of North Tower to the
But WAIT; there
are more than enough good tracks on this compilation to make up for the three
or four boners. TO begin with the first track entitled “Just a Little
Bit” performed by
On the “Ole Give It To Mikey, “He’ll Play It, Rating Scale” this one is a solid B+. It could have ranked higher had those filler tracks I’ve noted been left off. But hey they were just trying to give you more bang for your buck. Unfortunately, the bang burst!
I’ve never been one who much liked “Live Recordings” simply due to the distortion from the crowd. But time certainly has changed, along with the technology and those days have certainly passed: Resulting in TOPCAT capturing performances by such well known Blues and Band artists such as Johnny Nicholas, Jimmie Vaughan, Greg Piccolo, Stephen Burton, Joel Guzman, Sarah Fox, Floyd Domino and Joe King Carrasco.
Backed by the horns of The Texas Horns and a TON of artists which makes this a well performed and produced product that demonstrates Texas style Roadhouse Blues from it’s best shuffle to its down and guttural feel, it is all here. Bended and blended with the sounds of today’s BIG BAND with instrumental solo’s melded around solid vocals this project is something for every blues lover. And yes there are even at least 4 use able blues tracks that you dancers are going to enjoy. Although, I doubt that today’s crop of DJs will play these for your entertainment unless you ask for them. Simply for the sake of diversity I’ll note my three favorites. Track Three “The Ironic Twist” is a solid shuffle that will work any afternoon or early evening. Track five, ‘It Don’t Mean A Thing If It Ain’t Got Swing” is an excellent cover of that 40’s hit with a bodacious Horn and of coarse being this is a Texas band an outlandish fiddle joins in with a slappin string bass that just slays me and will you swing fiends. Finally, track nine “Good Morning Judge” performed by Johnny Nicholas it is a fun easy shuffle that we all can relate to.
On the “Ole Give It to Mikey, He Can Play It, Rating Scale this one is a solid A. It is diverse in the material present. Preformed and produced well throughout this is one you will want to add to your collection. Availability should not be a problem as it will be everywhere TopCat is sold.
Nicky Harris: Mixing It Up: CRD-1520: August 2006:
In listening to
this latest offering from Nicky Harris I have come to the conclusion that the
man is primarily country based in his personal style and presentation.
His compositions have a Jimmy Buffet Flavor while his delivery is somewhere
between Shaken Steven out of
Containing at
total of 14 tracks Nicky has personally penned 12 of them. They show a variety
but it is in their arrangement and delivery they all seem to have a recurrent
feel, which tends to be boring to me. There were two tracks although they
have a definite country flavor that caught my attention. They were track
two, “Shaky Ray” and track six “Love Thing”. Both are solid shuffles
which you moderate to slow paced dancers may find entertaining. Now the
one track which did catch me my surprise was track twelve “Surfin
Guitar”. Reminiscent of the early 60’s Venture’s style of
On the “Ole Give To Mikey, He’ll Play It Rating Scale” this one is a C+. The production is consistent and overall good. Likewise Nicky’s presentation is consistent but the total project is anything but varied. If any thing it has a constant and consistent feel which is a bit too much into the retro sound of “Rock-a-Billy”. This one maybe difficult to obtain so I’d suggest you go to www.NickyHarris.com and obtain it from his on line store.
Jay Proctor: Still Got Flow: Forevermore Music & Records: 4618-2: September 2006
This latest release by one of the most distinctive voices in today’s R n B, Soul market caught me by surprise. The reason being is its wide range of material. That’s right material ranging from the sensual flavors of “Got You On My Mind and You Make Me Hot” through the love ballad of “Touched By An Angel” to the uptown feel good contemporary sound of “When Love Slips Away”.
This project certainly is one that you will want to add to your collection as it offers real value across multiple market lines. So whether you are into Urban Adult Contemporary, Classic R n B, Southern or Northern Soul, or one of the many dance markets you’ll find something in Jay’s latest offering to your liking.
On the “Ole Give It To Mikey, He’ll Play It, Rating Scale” this one is a solid A. Variety, Variety, well produced and performed, this one validates what we have come to expect from Jay…Quality.
Boardwalk Memories: Old Beezer Records: August 2006
Terry Batson and Marty Brogden have ventured out to create a new record label named “Old Beezer Records” and Boardwalk Memories is their first venture. Containing a compilation of 14 tracks, some old and some new this offering is as advertised “Classic Boardwalk/Beach Sounds” from yesterday and today. In my modest opinion there Ain’t nothing bubble gum about this project. Whether the products the artists are presenting is new or from days gone by each has caught the true feel good flavor and texture of Beach Music. They accomplish this not only through their energized vocalizations but with the appropriate positioning and usage of horns (Reed and Brass), mix in the appropriate modulations, supporting backgrounds which are correctly engineered you have a compilation that is RIGHT ON!
As is my usual custom I’ve selected a few and the operative word is “few” of my favorites. But before I proceed let me say that there are many more than the few I’ll innumerate, but due to print restrictions I’m limiting the number. First the offering by Timepiece “I’m In Love Again” (Track 2) is a newbie but has all the elements one finds in classic beach, solid lead, a fine instrumental bridge, good supporting backgrounds and a beat that make the ole toe tap. New comer Stacy Mitchart gives us a contemporary sound that just fits in fine with his original “You Turn Me On”. While Lenny Woods gives us a solid R&B sound in Let’s Go To The Party”: A tune that will work in just about any venue.
On the “Ole Give It To Mikey, He’ll Play It, Rating Scale” this one is without a doubt a solid A. Solid production values, good track selection which provides a variety within the traditional sounds and flavors of Beach Music make this reach the lofty heights of A grade material and believe me for a compilation to obtain this level it Ain’t easy. So take it from me Terry and Marty… Well done guys. You’ve set a high standard which we all will come to expect in any of your future releases. Availability on this one may be a bit difficult so give the guys a call at either 919-738-5392 or 919735-6790 I’m sure they will hook you up.
STACY MITCHART: I’M A GOOD MAN: DR. SAM RECORDS: (July 2006)
You know I ran
into Stacy Mitchart in
I’ve found so many GOOD tracks that I simply don’t have the space to detail the 13 tracks individually. I will tell you that he moves from contemporary blues with a dash of funk, through today’s blues ballads and grooves back to contemporary club dance. Overall, the pro’s at Masterphonics, D-Rocks, Younger Street and Native Music Studios did a first rate job of keeping the presence of the leads whether they be instrumental or vocal where it needed to be: All the while maximizing the supporting instruments and vocalists.
Now you dance folks are wondering if there is anything here for you. Absolutely! To be specific I found four tracks that can work for shag and west coast swing as well as you line dance fanatics. My personal favorites are as follows: “Bounce (Track 1): A contemporary groove with a solid feel of today not only in Stacy’s delivery but in the musicality in total. (Track 5): “Got to Get The Feeling Back Again”. Composed of a three note walking bass line supported with horns and Motown like background vocals paired with Stacy’s fluid guitar and knowing vocals that make this an example of today’s blues that you listeners will just love. Lastly (Track 12) “Voodoo Woman” Sam Corley III’s delivery is as smooth and light as virgin olive oil. Vocal and instrumental background presence is deftly place where it must be providing Sam with an ethereal flavor in this most soulful track.
Overall, I have to say that Stacy set a high bench mark for himself with this offering. On the “Ole Give It To Mikey He’ll Play It Rating Scale this one is an unabashed A. Well produced, rich with original material that reflects today’s sound, it truly has something for everyone. I am not sure on the availability of this one so if your local record shop doesn’t have it go to www.stacymitchhart.com. You can buy it on line.
Royal Scotsmen Band: Walking On the Beach: June 2006
:
I truly hate what I am about to say but, those of you who know me. Know that I don’t make critical remarks simply to hurt an individual or a group. My sole intent is to help the group or individual grow thereby effectively helping the industry. Let me begin by saying that instrumentally the group obviously ahs a great many talents. Their arrangements are at least entertaining although at time I did find them to be a bit too predictable. But the one major problem throughout are the vocals. The Male lead vocalist reminds me of a coffee house balladeer from the early 60’s in much of his presentation. He lacks fire and energy and is frequently off key or slides into a note that needs to be hit with punch. This same lack of technique is evidenced by the female lead except she seems to enjoy the nose singing one found in female country singers of the 50’s. Add to this that the same lack of totality is evidenced in the blends well… need I say more. In short. These guys have a great deal of potential with their instruments but not vocally. I’d say you need to go back to the drawing board and find you a lead singer who can shape the background and blends as well as carry the group musically; otherwise you are going to continue to disappoint.
On the “Ole Give It To Mikey, He’ll Play It Rating Scale” this one is a D. Why? The Answer is simple a horrid vocal presentation throughout.
One20inc More Soul 4: (June 2006)
I am once again caught amidst a very serious dilemma and this problem is due to the fact that Mike Faver at One20inc has produced another product with so many good tracks that if I point out which ones are my favorites I am certainly going to offend someone. So I’m going to try and condense my comments to a general overview of a product that runs the full gamut of musical styling’s that compose soul. From the sophisticated sounds of Lia & The Wave on Slow Dance, Billy Scotts classic up tempo smoothie, Roy C’s sing talk backed by a steady beat, Mitch Kasmar’s classic blues harp intro to a solid blues shuffle, Wall Streets pleasing Hall and Oats like stylings, Ray Edge’s Gutsy gravelly delivery, Craig’s wonderfully produced intro and delivery, Bo reminding us of a place we’ve all been or the Gospel joy presented by the Mills family this project is SOOOOOOOO FINE!
You know the only problem with a product as good as this one is that DJ’s, radio and the media in general will ignore one track over another due to personal likes and dislikes or for some other reason, which is a true shame. So having said that let me present you with the “Give It To Mikey, He’ll Play It Rating Scale award of A+. Now you’re wondering why my highest rating? The answer is obvious! It deserves it for production, track selection, artist’s performance, variety and usability. In short it offers something for everyone, all types of dancers, wall flowers or just we plan ole folks. So be sure to pick up your copy today. Can’t find it … well call 803-484-4900 and tell them Mikey sent you. The folks at One20inc will be happy to address your needs.
O.B. Buchana: I’m Gonna Sleep: Ecko Records:ECD1082: (June 2006)
Where to I begin
with this offering by brother O.B.? Do I speak to the irritating Ecko canned
tracks or do I speak to the misstep in track inclusion and limited
production. Well, I don’t think I will repeat one of my chronic gripes
with Ecko. No for brother
On the “Ole Give It To Mikey, Rating Scale” this one is a B. Containing four very nice tracks that although simple in production they have something that will pique your interests and will make your purchase of this project worthwhile. This project will be available everywhere Ecko Records are sold.
The Castaways: Generation Six: KHP Music: KHP1048: June 2006:
The Castaways are no new comers to the Beach Music Scene and this production clearly demonstrates why they have had such longevity. Although it contains only eleven tracks which are primarily covers the production and individual nuances contained on each track gives Generation Six a distinct solid feel and flavor. Production is first rate throughout, meaning horns, blends and vocal stacks are placed at key points at levels that maximize the effect. A good example of this is one of my personal favorites Track 10 “Good Timin’ Man”. Sung by Karen Clayton with guts and a fun feel while being supported by a strong walking base all accented by real horns and a rock guitar whose usage is key to the energy maintained throughout. Another of my personal favorites that demonstrates the diversity of the group is track three “Your Sweet Love”. Sung by Duane Neese who is an absolute professional in his clear unpushed delivery all the time backed by muted horns, a steady drum and blended harmonies. My Oh My... it is one of those tracks you play over as it just loops around in your head on continual replay. This track is a solid dance track you who love that classic beach sound.
On the “Ole Give It To Mikey, He’ll Play It Rating Scale” this one is a STRONG B+. It contains ample usable tracks for your dancers. Well produced and contains a variety of musical styles. My only complaint is that although it contains 4 original tracks they could be a bit more diverse but hey what do I know. Afterall two of the four original tracks are already on the Beach Music charts so you decide if I’m just a picky ole fart. Availability of this one is unknown at this time but if your local shop does not have it go to
www. KHPmusic.com and order it direct.
Donnie Ray: Don’t Stop My Party: Ecko Records: ECD1076: (June 2006)
Oh My… Am I VERY
pleasantly surprised with this latest offering from ECKO RECORDS! To
begin with the canned typical Ecko sound is not what one finds on this
project. What you will find is a clear clean vocal delivered with energy
and flair by Brother Donnie Ray. Yes sir, this brother can sing and does
so with ease. Next you will find a mix of retro disco, a soulful ballad
or two and a bit of light contemporary sound. Additionally, you find
solid vocal background and the appropriate and artfully entertaining use of a
I found four very useable tracks for you shag/swing dancers. Additionally, one sure fire winner on the belly rubbing chart and a feel good party down tune that blew my shorts up! Of these I have my favorites and they are as follows: Track 1 “Is It Your Place Or Is It Mine” an up tempo dancer with a retro disco soul feel. Track 3 that is definitely disco influenced but with its creative use of keyboards and stacked vocals on the bridge that simply hooks you in on this one. On the belly rubbin’ side I’ve got to say that track five “Sweeter to Me” has simply got that sway bump and grind feel that just says low lights and snuggle up over it.
On the “Ole Give It To Mikey, He’ll Play It, Rating Scale” this one is a Solid A. Ample offerings that you dancers can and will use. Pair this with the fact it is simply a good listen without the typical Ecko studio redundancy and hollow sound one can find and you’ve got a winner. Availability on this one should not be a problem as it will be available everywhere Ecko is sold.
Sammie O’Banion: “What’s Going On?” (May 2006)