West Coast House Epitomized
K. Jo Cooley | Sacramento, CA | 07/25/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I am very surprised that more comments haven't been placed here as this is a wonderful album. Furthermore, I am not in agreement with one of the posters that indicated that this was "rock" driven. That is NOT an accurate description of the feel of this album. Yes, the first song does have rock overtones, but clearly electronica rules on this song. Gina Rene is known for playing with the dexterity of house music and this is just another example of how she does that very well.
Listening to this album for the first time flashed me back to when I first heard the "Pearl" by Aquanote a few years back. That heady, trippy, soulful experience came rushing back, only this time a lot more grown up, sexy and daring. "Warrior" always captures my imagination with its lilting voices and melodic tunes. This song is really, absolutely, genius. The lyrics simply rock.
"The Real" is very 80's inspired, which is fine with me...done right, 80's throwbacks can be *oh so right now*.
I love Omega's voice and it was such a pleasure hearing her on several of the tracks. Thus, making the following songs my favorite: "Pushin" "Don't Hold Back" and "I can't wait."
Those who enjoyed "Beautiful Tomorrow" and "The Pearl", will not be able to stop listening to this truly brilliant and beautiful album. The fact that so many of the Deep House music divas performed on this album should be enough for one to check it out. But, the performances will keep you listening to this gem everyday for a long time to come.
"
A Great Album
The Chrome Avenger | California | 05/30/2006
(4 out of 5 stars)
"I first heard Andy's music back in the original Om Lounge/Soulstice days. Really awesome tunes like Carnaval, Lovely, The Reason are still some of my favorites. I was pleased to find out he finally released a full length album of all original material. Heard Jason Bentley on KCRW kick off his show w/ "Warrior" and I decided I'd pick up the album. If you're a fan of the Soulstice stuff, you'll be pleased. There are 4 tracks featuring Gina Rene' on vocals, along w/ most of the album co-produced by her brother and fellow Soulstice member Gabriel Rene. That's practically all of Soulstice right there minus one member (Mei-Lwun)! Also, if you're a fan of another really awesome Om artist Afro-Mystik, you'll be pleased to see that their lead vocalist Omega makes it onto 4 songs as well. If that's not enough to convince you the album is worth picking up, Lisa Shaw, the amazing Naked Music soul slinger graces her honey dripped vocals on 3 songs. For those fans of Om lounge, soul, deep house, jazz, this album is for you. And for those that crave the 4/4 remixes, check out the various 12"s that Om will surely put out soon."
Track Listings (12) - Disc #1
