Search - Ananda Project :: Release

Some say it's the best album of 2000

01/25/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"after reading reviews of this album in MIXER and URB magazines, i had to pick it up. once i gave it a few listens, i understood why it was receiving such praise. obviously, i was not disappointed with my purchase.this CD is full of intelligent house music. even those who aren't house junkies will enjoy the fresh sounds the ananda project has to offer. this isn't hard-hitting house, though; it sounds more organic with perky tribal rhythms, piano chords, and acoustic guitar riffs. some songs border on a garage sound, but without the lounge-like elements. however, the soul is there, and in full force. add a touch of funk for attitude, and some sexy grooves, and you've got 'release'.there's good use of vocals on this album; both male and female singers contribute. a pleasant surprise is that there are no obnoxious 'diva' vocal tracks, which are all too common on house music albums and compilations. the album flows smoothly from beginning to end, and even has a bonus remix as the last track.if i had to choose highlights, i'd say 'cascades of color' and 'release' are the best tracks. but there are some others that are growing on me. i've heard 'cascades of color' before this cd was released, and seeing that the album included this song, i had to see what else the ananda project had to offer. 'release' is one of the prettiest (yes, i did use that word) songs i've heard in a long time. if you're a fan of piano in your dance music, just wait until you hear this one.i recommend checking this one out, even if you're not a dance music fan. and see why some critics are calling this the best album of 2000."