Comments for Aural Examination

Comment on Vinyl examination: Baby, it’s Diana by djrj

djrj — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 01:54:05 +0000

I have to peacefully and artistically disagree with you that Ross’s legend lies in her singles. I have recently been rediscovering the artistry that is Diana Ross and have to say that this woman has NEVER created a bad album, even when Motown was weaving together material she delivered with her voice. I purchased “Baby It’s Me” after seeing her amazing Live in Caesars Palace performance on HBO and was immediately blown away by “Too Shy To Say.” I really enjoy all of her albums. I recently had another listen to “Everything Is Everything.” While I think this was an ill fated follow up to “Diana Ross” I understand Berry Gordy’s vision. He didnt want her to be an R&B artist so her follow up album was completely pop and it didn’t strick a cord here in the states where you are as good as your last album. But listen to it now completely through and tell me its not spectacular. I have to agree with you on this “Baby It’s Me” is fantastic. One of her best, but then again Diana Ross has never really mad a bad album ever. Her material gets better with age.

Comment on Keith Barrow’s life a beautiful song unsung by djrj

djrj — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 01:39:34 +0000

I had often heard the name Keith Barrow but had never really listened to his music. I am listening to Physical Attraction now. I can hear his love for Diana Ross in “If It’s Love That You’re Looking For” as he sings “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” in the bridge. I almost thought he was Eddie Kendricks on “Turn Me Up.” “You Know You Want To Be Loved” what needs to be said about his smooth and controlled delivery. It is easy to see why this was the biggest hit of his career. He was completely in control here. Again on the discoed “Physical Attraction,” I hear echos of Eddie Kendricks. The last three tracks of this album are really the best songs on this album. The melancholy moodiness of “Overnight Success,” the jazzy Thom Bellish “Garden of Love” and the unbelievable simplistic and moving “Free To Be Me,” show the promise of a singer whose songs were just beginning. Minus the disco this is an excellent collection of soul. In fact “Free To Be Me,” needs to be heavily played on soul quiet storms worldwide. This song is an unbelievable end. Never oversung or overpowered by arrangements you get the man and his voice and what a delight it is. RIP Keith, you are missed man. I feel really honored to have this album and to be able to enjoy your talent. I can only imagine and wonder what he would be doing now.

Comment on Vinyl examination: The ever wonderful Rockie Robbins by Penelope Pope

Penelope Pope — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 15:37:15 +0000

I had the personal joy of seeing Rockie Robbins perform many times in the Mpls. club scene back in the day. I have always loved his sweet soulful voice and would enjoy hearing more of his music. Lost track of what he was doing when he left Mpls. but still listen to his music regularly. Took my old records, made them into CD’s and then downloaded them onto my I-pod. Not the best sound quality, but when I listen, I can still see him performing in my mind. I never did understand why he didn’t become more popular and well known. Glad to see others feel the same way.

Comment on Vinyl examination: The ever wonderful Rockie Robbins by Lady Soul

Lady Soul — Sun, 23 Nov 2008 07:23:17 +0000

Thank you,Thank you. The mellow voice of Mr Robbins has a speacial place in my soul.He along with singer J.R Bailey were ahead of their time.Mr Robbins being compaired to Pebo Bryson. And Mr Bailey to Marvin Gay.Their music will take you to a place and a time in life when, the love game was oh so real.His style and recording of You and me. And J.R Bailey’s Just you and me.Are worth being release again.

Comment on Take a few ‘Lessons’ from Blueheels by Anonymous

Anonymous — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 06:40:37 +0000

their first record was better

Comment on My night on ‘The Block’ by QH

QH — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 14:16:05 +0000

While they’re no Spice Girls, they got the talent, I’ll say that. I’m glad I was right when I told you to take yourself to that show, lol, aren’t you glad you went? Best friends never lie. -QH.

Comment on He messed up Janet’s ‘Good Thing’ by QH

QH — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 22:33:52 +0000

Lord…

This isn’t even my favorite from her debut, that would go to either “You’ll Never Find (A Love Like Mine)” or “Come Give Your Love to Me.”-QH

Comment on Vinyl examination: The rhythm of ‘Patti Austin’ by QH

QH — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 22:32:19 +0000

Listening to this now, I love it. Barring a few missteps, which are still fun, this record is truly hot. I like her versatility, and as you know that makes a good singer for me.

You know about Glen Ballard’s later production credits & fame right?-QH

Comment on Vinyl examination: The rhythm of ‘Patti Austin’ by Michael A. Gonzales

Michael A. Gonzales — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 15:26:01 +0000

glad you’re back
oh, patti…well, she was my first love

Comment on Take a few ‘Lessons’ from Blueheels by Angie

Angie — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 17:30:55 +0000

One of the best albums I’ve ever owned. You will not regret buying it!!