When there was word of a new Kool & The Gang album due outon April 21, 1998, we fans were waiting with baited breath for astupendous set of brand new songs from the band; to follow their "State Of Affairs" album of 1995 -- maybe even a live concert recording. The upcoming release was a big mystery, but greatly anticipated. Well, when it finally came out, my heart sank just a little, to see that it was yet another "greatest hits" cd. Okay, I bought it. Upon the first listen, I could hear that there was indeed a difference about the songs. And for me, wow! what a difference. Being aware of every subtlety of J.T. Taylor's vocals on these old gems, I noticed many variations he was making in his delivery on the new cd. The Gang & J.T. had gone back into the studio and done different arrangements of the songs. Well yeah, 1998 style. For me, it's like listening to J.T. in live concert, where he injects so many of his own ad libs in! to the flavor of the songs. The old familiarity of his voice is still there of course, but an added bonus is how you can hear the mature texture it has taken on over the years. Always an alluring singer, his vocals now come across with a more aggressive sensuality. Kool and the rest of The Gang are breathtaking with the instruments.
Check out "Cherish", "Joanna" and "No Show"!
I could not do this review without INSISTING that the world should hear "Fresh" -- where J.T. purrs about his "sophisticated lady", "ooh magic baby"! And the track I listen to every day.... yes, every day, is "Get Down On It" -- where you will hear how J.T. has added a stunning surprise to the ending of this song!
Although I had been waiting for some new material from Kool & The Gang featuring J.T. Taylor, I am more than satisfied with this release until they decide to take time off tour and write new songs. |
