The luscious tones of the intoxicating voice of South London’s finest new soul singer, Lianne La Havas, are reminiscent of a once-glorious Sade. A compendium of introspective prose, ‘Is Your Love Big Enough?’ La Havas’ fantastic debut offering, is a beautiful and melancholic collection of retrospective prose on relationships at their most exquisite, to their confusing, bittersweet end. The demeanor of life thoroughly explored, as well as a profound wisdom on all-encompassing, maddening, love transcends La Havas’ young age.

La Havas takes on the role of narrator amidst a flurry of sound and against an indesinent fusion of soothing soul and funky folk, which serve as embellishment for her bitterly harsh and honest lyrics. The chic and choppy guitar rifts, implicative of 1920s Paris, paint the backdrop to a debacle of a mysterious and inexplicably irresistible older man in ‘Age’.

Soft drums and deep piano chords weave amongst striking self-confessions (‘You’re lost and found, falling out, my faith broken down’) within the exquisite ‘Lost & Found,’ which depicts the vulnerability of a lover who has lost. Cataloging the dizzying heights of love in a fervent rendition of Scott Matthews ‘Elusive,’ La Havas divulges the tantalizing tale of anyone who has ever crumpled under the overwhelming exhaustion of infatuation.

Just piano and vocals are used to portray a wretched sadness in the distressing ‘Gone.’ Wistful lyrics allude to the beguiling nature of love, ‘You just look ridiculous in your disguise, now I found you out, this is my last goodbye.’ An undertone of frustration and self doubt subtly intertwine to create an impression of disillusionment with the concept of love: ‘Love is not blind, it’s just deaf and it is dumb. So how could I fool myself thinking you were the one?’  Within this simple song La Havas congregates every emotion that comes alongside a broken heart that mistakenly placed its faith in the wrong individual.

La Havas harbors an old soul, intertwined with a deep understanding of the world around her. This album is good for your soul. With each song a therapeutic dose is unleashed onto the listener, easing the pain of a broken heart and soothing the melancholy of the harsher edges of life. To reference La Havas’ fitting exclamation: ‘It’s just the beginning, sing when you’re winning.’ There is no doubt that this girl is set for big stages, and that this is indeed just the beginning. Try to catch her at an intimate venue in her upcoming European tour, or as she supports the great John Legend throughout his current US tour. And so to address this soul songstress directly: Lianne please do keep on singing, you are tremendously winning.

Album Highlights: Lost & Found, Everything Everything, Forget.

Image Courtesy of  Kmeron

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Florida, U.S.A. — SOUL Electronics – a global leader in consumer electronics and manufacturing with a rich history in delivering innovative technology concepts has announced international football star Cesc Fabregas as a new brand ambassador. The FC Barcelona player will be featured in the company’s upcoming “SOUL of Greatness” video series and campaign. Fabregas will also represent the SOUL brand during various sporting events throughout the year.

“Fabregas is one of the most talented international footballers in the game, making him the perfect athlete to align with,” commented Len Davi, Executive Director of SOUL Electronics. “Fabregas’ achievements and athleticism make him a great representation of what the SOUL of Greatness campaign stands for. He’s dedicated, focused and driven on attaining goals and striving for excellence.”

The “SOUL of Greatness” video series is designed to inspire and demonstrate how achieving greatness is a way of life. Reaching greatness involves dedication and focus. Many people turn to music to help block out the noise and distractions of the world to help them concentrate and accomplish goals.

“Motivation and hard work are key ingredients for success,” noted Cesc Fabregas. “Listening to music shuts out distractions and helps me stay focused, whether on the field, in the locker room or at home. I am excited to partner with SOUL to help spread the message that anyone can find will and determination from within.”

Cesc Fabregas joins Olympic athlete and SOUL Electronics partner Usain Bolt, as well as original SOUL by Ludacris brand partner Chris “Ludacris” Bridges, who will also each appear in key video spots for the series. Other stars of the campaign will be announced soon.

To view video of Cesc Fabregas, please visit: http://bit.ly/SoGYouTube

Image Courtesy of  Natursports / Shutterstock.com

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Jack White finally made his debut with his first solo album after the White Stripes break-up in 2011; ‘Blunderbuss,’ the new White’s album, is now available for purchasing. The record will serve music lovers to enjoy almost 45 minutes of good Rock ‘n’ Roll.

Surely quite a surprise for those who expected White to experiment something new in the album, as he instead retraces the old routes of rock, enhancing it with blues, soul and sometimes a psychedelic attitude. He does it with such an extreme grace and sense of completeness, that it seems impossible not to be captured by the record as if it featured, instead, something never experienced.

The roots of Rock ‘n’ Roll seem to comfortably lie together with the soul and blues sounds that accompany the entire work, where the piano seems to have more importance than the guitar itself. In this mixture of different sonorities nothing goes lost, and everything seems to fit properly to create a reliable and comfortable sound.

In the album it is possible to retrieve many of the influences that made Rock ‘n’ Roll what it is now; it is possible to hear The Doors, as well as the AC/DC and Dylan. None of the tracks though come as a repetitive form of the previous work done by those or other artists, a gentle reinvention of it instead.

The whole record stays faithful to the basic attitude with which White decided to approach the sound, although the songs express a variety of moments of that attitude. The album opens with ‘Missing Pieces’ which seems to be a declaration of what the album will be. ‘Sixteen Saltines,’ the second single released prior to the album, then goes on reminding everybody where White comes from, musically speaking, and ‘Love Interruption’ serves the exact contrary, almost separating the artist from his musical past.

Some of the songs, such as ‘Trash Tongue Talker’ and ‘Hip (Eponymous) Poor Boy,’ are extremely catchy, the latter almost reminding of  a kids rhyme, resulting in a fresh sound. ‘Trash Tongue Talker’ comes to the listener in a very straightforward manner, raw and strong, almost setting a “saloon” state of mind.

There is also a well done cover of ‘I’m Shakin,’ which does Little Willie John justice. The ending of the album is intriguing, with the last song, ‘Take Me with You When You Go,’ remaining faithful to the rest of the record until towards the end, when vibrant, and almost hysterical, vocals and sounds regenerate the listener’s interest in the album. ‘Blunderbuss,’ the song that gives the title to the album, is probably the delicate pearl of the record.

Concerning the lyrics, the first single ‘Love Interruption,’ well expresses the dark side that White seems to have chosen for many songs of his first solo album. In several tracks it is possible to retrieve, indeed, that powerful, angry, hurt, resentful as well as resigned feeling expressed in the first single, released at the end of January this year.

Being the debut album of White as a solo musician, the record succeeds to trace that line wanted by the artist to divide the image of Jack White from the White Stripes, and it does this in a pleasant and elegant way, catching the listener’s mind with its rhythm and with its ‘Rock ‘n’ Blues’ approach.

Image Courtesy of   http://jackwhiteiii.com

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TJL Productions announced today that SUPERSTARS OF ’70s SOUL LIVE, the very first installment of its acclaimed MY MUSIC series, will return to PBS stations nationwide in March 2012 by popular demand. Hosted by Grammy award winner Patti LaBelle, SUPERSTARS OF ’70s SOUL LIVE is a once-in-a-lifetime gathering of R&B legends performing some of the greatest hits of the decade.

This emotional concert special, captured live in Atlantic City in November 2003, features performances from some of the biggest names in R&B, soul, disco and funk. Highlights include two numbers from host Patti LaBelle, including her chart-topping smash “Lady Marmalade”; the Commodores’ hard-funk classic “Brick House”; the get-up-and-dance anthem “We Are Family” by Kathy and Joni Sledge of Sister Sledge;

“Ain’t No Stopping Us Now” by McFadden & Whitehead – the duo’s last performance together, recorded months before Whitehead’s passing; and a historic reunion of the Chi-Lites with original lead singer Eugene Record, in what was to be the group’s last performance with Record before his passing in 2005.

“This special is a dream come true, to gather the original voices and talents that define the ’70s soul era,” says MY MUSIC executive producer TJ Lubinsky. “You may not remember all their names, but you know each and every one of their songs as the music that defined the soul of the ’70s.” Lubinsky spent two years tracking down the artists for the special, finding Yvonne Elliman (“If I Can’t Have You”) retired in Hawaii and convincing her to perform again in public for the first time in 27 years.

In addition, Lubinsky has produced a new CD collection exclusively for PBS titled MY MUSIC: POP SOUL MASTERS SERIES. The 7-disc set, available exclusively at PBS.org, represents the most comprehensive hits package of ’70s soul ever compiled, all mastered from first generation tapes and featuring many remixes plus New York and Philly club rarities from the era.

SUPERSTARS OF ’70s SOUL LIVE: MY MUSIC is part of special programming premiering on PBS stations beginning March 3, 2012. Check local listings for stations and times.

Image Courtesy of    http://www.flickr.com/photos/graffitiphoto/

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Singer songwriter Larry g(EE) recently debuted his EP, entitled Weekends. Released on December 10, Weekends showcases four unique songs from Larry g(EE) that highlight his strengths as a singer and his creativity as a songwriter. This Texas native brings a soulful charm to his music, along with a powerful band full of drums, piano, guitar, and a unique brass section that takes his songs to new heights.

His single entitled “Yo Mama” is a great introduction into Larry g(EE)’s signature style. This upbeat tempo track tells a story of a woman who has caught his attention. The powerful soul in his voice is something that’s not easy to produce, but he does it brilliantly. Backed by a talented band, this song is heavy with brass instruments which brings a musical element not normally heard in current mainstream music.

Aside from the musicality of the song, Larry g(EE)’s lyrics are well written and the hook is easy to sing along to.  The catchy bridge is a playful take off of Kelis’ popular hip hop song “Milkshake”, as he sings “Your milkshake may bring boys to the yard but that’s not how I’m playing these cards.”

The music video for “Yo Mama” highlights the distinct style and nature of the music. Dressed in suits, Larry and his band bring a retro flavor into the mix as he strays away from the often overdone melodies in current pop music. The natural soul in his voice comes out when he sings throughout the hook of “Yo Mama” and his individual sound helps him stand out from other current singer songwriters.

“I’m Your Fool” is another song that continues to show the promise in Larry g(EE)’s music. Starting off with a piano intro that builds up and continues throughout the song, “I’m Your Fool” brings an air of style heard from decades ago. Like his other songs, there is a presence of horns that is something special, and not widely heard in music today. He sings of past relationship regrets in this track.

“Now I know I’ve done a million things to push you away, and I can’t take back the games you never wanted to play.” The harmonies in this song help Larry’s voice shine as background singers pay homage to soul music of the past. “I’m Your Fool” is a more emotional song that shows the artist’s creativity. His voice is a bit more subdued than in other songs, but doesn’t take away from his special blend of talent.

Weekends continues on with “Camera Phone,” a fun song that depicts a man trying to pick up a girl that has caught his eye. “And my mind’s still buzzing from the night before,” Larry g(EE) sings, as he sees the woman he is fixated on. The retro feel of the song mixes with the contemporary vibe of the camera phone, while his playful lyrics are heard throughout.

“I’m thinking you and me tonight, tell your friends they can come on by, it’ll be alright,” he sings. It’s an energizing song that shows the singer’s versatility in his vocal strengths, as he goes from soft tones in the verses to the more soulful and powerful hook.

“Game” rounds out the group of distinct songs on Weekends. This fast paced song brings forward emotions of stepping away from a relationship where games are being played. His voice is continues to shine soulfully as he sings of his fed up attitude. A strong piano accompaniment is heard throughout and marries wonderfully with the horn section. The song ends off solely with instrumental music and highlights how talented his band is.

Larry g(EE)’s signature blend of contemporary lyrics and soul inspired music heard throughout Weekends is both creatively and expertly done. What he has uniquely done with music makes him hard to compare to other current artists, because his talent helps him positively stand away from the crowd.

Track Listing for Weekends – have a look at Larry g(EE) facebook as well for updates:

1. Yo Mama
2. I’m Your Fool
3. Camera Phone
4. Games

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Larry g(ee) recently debuted his soulful EP, entitled Weekends. Produced by Beau Patrick Bedford, Weekends is a solid collection of four songs, including the popular single, “Yo Mama”, along with “I’m You’re Fool,” “Camera Phone,” and “Game.” Backed by a stellar band with more than a dozen members, Weekends is an extraordinary first EP that showcases Larry g(ee)’s talent.

Toonari Post had the chance to catch up with the Dallas, Texas singer to talk about his signature music and where his influences come from.

TP: How would you describe your music? What kind of genre do you think it falls under? 

LG: I’d have to say soul/indie pop band.

TP: How did you get started as a musician? 

LG: In 2004, I started out singing in various coffee shops, clothing boutiques, and open mic nights in Dallas, during a very short singer songwriter phase.

TP: When did you know that you wanted to pursue music professionally? 

LG: It was after I had been let go by a longtime employer, I worked in retail. It was one of those “you don’t have anything to lose just go for it moments”, and I haven’t looked back ever since.

TP: Where do you get your inspiration to write music? 

LG: Personal experiences definitely.

TP: How long did it take to write and record Weekends? 

LG: The songs were written in a span of 3 to 4 months, but the process of getting the album recorded and made, I’d say a year.

TP: You have a large band backing you up on your songs, how did you form the band? Have you known them for a long time, or is your relationship with them new? 

LG: The producer of the album and good friend, Beau Bedford, works with a number of musicians in town. As soon as we laid down the scratch tracks he knew exactly who to reach out to. He’s got a great circle of musicians that he works with but it’s totally attributed to how talented Beau really is. I’m blessed to have worked with him. Some of the other artists on this album are friends who donated their free time to help out. It’s been a beautiful experience. My time spent with the band has developed into good friendship over the past year.

TP: What artists would you like to collaborate with in the future? 

LG: Mostly producers, Salaam Remi, Mark Ronson, Pharrell, Mike Snow’s Andrew Wyatt.

TP: Where do you see yourself in five years from now? 

LG: Touring in the states and overseas.

TP: What artists are you currently listening to? 

LG: The Weekend,Curtis Mayfield, Kings Go Forth, ASAP Rocky, Allen Stone, it’s kind of all over the place.

Image Courtesy of   https://www.facebook.com/LarryGeeMusic

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Florence and The Machine’s producer Paul Epworth revealed through Twitter that the upcoming follow up album to Florence and The Machine’s 2009 debut Lungs, has no “weak tracks”.

The tweeted message exposed that the album songs were finished and they were currently with the record label, which is in charge of choosing which songs will be picked and  included on the album.

Epworth said: “Had a week of wonderful mixes coming in for Florence 2. I love handing something over to hear it come back better. I feel for the a&r dept having to try and whittle these tracks down to 10 or 12 because there really are no weak ones. It’s a weird record that sounds live in ways and like a machine in others, with sensitivity and power from both the music and Flo’s voice.”

Epworth had already given previous comments  about the album production with Florence Welch in London’s Abbey Road Studios, when he spoke to BBC 6 Music in June. Referring about the sounds of the new album, he commented: “It’s going to be more stripped down, but it’s heavy, rhythmically. It’s a much heavier record than the first album.”

He also added how Welch is experiencing different music fields and styles, going from ” Less indie and lot more soulful.”

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Soul’s lovers has a date with the King. Should I introduce him?

We are talking about this american songwriter, producer and R&B musician. That’s right, it’s Brian McKnight.

With he’s velvety voice, Brian made us fall in love with soul since 1991, and he’s still got the touch!

To those living in Australia and USA, they would have the chance to be part of Brian’s new tour, Just me. He will be presenting he’s new album released this year, so be ready for he’s surprising performances.

Very Intimate. That phrase would sum up Brian McKnight’s show.
So do not miss the chance and be ready to be seduced by he’s unique voice.

But, where? when? Check it out.

23 Jun: Sanit Kilda, Australia. State Theatre.

23 Jun: Perth, Australia. Astor Theatre.

24 Jun: Melbourne, Australia. Trak Showroom.

24 Jun: Melbourne, Australia. Trak Live Lounge Bar.

25 Jun: Sydney, Australia. Metro Theatre.

26 Jun: Brisbane, Australia. The Tivoli.

26 Jun: Brisbane, Australia. Brisbane Arena / The Arena.

28 Jun: Melbourne, Australia. Trak Live Lounge Bar.

30 Jun: Auckland, New Zealand. The Civic.

10 Jul: Louisville. The Kentucky Center.

15 Jul: Providence. Providence Performing Arts Center.

22 Jul: Washington DC. Strathmore.

22 Jul: New York City. B.B. King Blues Club and Grill.

22 Jul: New York City. B.B. King Blues Club and Grill.

23 Jul: New York City. Apollo Theatre.

Image Courtesy  of  http://www.bmcknight.com

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