Search - John Oates (Artist) :: Solo: The Album/The Concert

John Oates Solo Dual Disc

TomAzon | United States | 08/26/2006

(3 out of 5 stars)

"I picked-up this John Oates Dual Disc called "Solo - The Album, The Concert" from Amazon. It's a combination of his 2002 "Phunk Shui" album (which includes the bonus tracks "Mona Lisa's Eyes", "Time Will Tell" and a live version of "People Get Ready").



The DVD side of the disc contains his 2004 "Live at The Historic Wheeler Opera House" show. I would suggest buying that separately since it includes a CD with the live show and some extra songs not on the DVD, plus the price is right. See my reviews on those also."

A Mature and Satisfying project

J. Moore | Grenada, MS United States | 09/26/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Having been a longtime fan of Hall and Oates, I had often wondered why John Oates did not get more credit, not only for his songwriting and impassioned vocals but for his wonderful arranging skills, which are so evident on Hall and Oates best work. As wonderful as Daryl's voice is as he soars over their peerless pop/soul, John gave us the edge and often the more straightahead lyricism.

This collection of songs previously released as "Phunk Shui" is a mature and satisfying work, balancing social commentary with adroit observation, as in "All Good People" and "Love in a dangerous time". He tackles relationships and family in "Unspoken" and "Little angel" and hails old school in the 'title' track. "It girl" is featured on the DVD side as a concept video featuring the iconic Paris Hilton, ostensibly being herself - which is strange as the song is mildly critical of her socialite lifestyle. She must have had a blonde moment! Other standout tracks are "Color of Love" and an interesting remake of Jimi Hendrix's "Electric Ladyland' done with a philly twist.

The DVD concert is well performed and though visually simple, is musically and emotionally satisfying. As a companion piece to the audio it adds background to the project without being distracting. Even the telemark skiing clip is fun because it is another glimpse of the man John Oates has grown into, as he steps from behind Daryl Hall's shadow, into a kinder, gentler, limelight. The price too is another great reason to pick up this gem - an album that deepens with each listen."