Search - John Oates :: Phunk Shui

A little short...just like Mr. Oates

Martin M. Ruminski | Cheektowaga, NY United States | 11/13/2002

(3 out of 5 stars)

"Yes, I am a long time fan of both Daryl and John. I actually was working at a hotel in Buffalo, tanning during a work break out near the pool, when I opened my eyes to see John Oates lying on the recliner a few chairs away from me. I politely told him that I was a longtime fan and he gave me a smile and nodded. I had ticks for their show that evening. A nice guy. I also met him in Philly at a CD signing a few years back at Tower on South St. Suffice it to say I am a follower. Phunk Shui disappointed me a bit. I would have to say that John did not really let himself go vocally...they all seem low and contained. All the songs seem restrained and held in except maybe Phunk Shui and Color of Love (although the live version he does at shows is much better). His voice is so low that at times one loses the melody of the song altogether i.e. Go Deep. Some of the melodic motifs are very worn...Opening of All Good People is lifted from some pop song...possibly Killing Me Softly with His Song. To me the album never really takes off and flies. It lacks electricity. The hooks are not catchy enough and that is compounded with John's vocals in the 'whale song' range. I look forward to the new H&O album and this has just whetted my appetite. If you are a TRUE H&O fan you must have PS...if not...then you will get a solid if not unremarkable pop CD. -Martin"

"just plug in and play"

Laura Vona | Boston, MA | 03/22/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This undiscovered modern classic speaks for iteself in the title track "Phunk Shui",

"just plug in and play"



That's all there is to it, really.

You'll be glad you did."

Phunk Shui

Tara Handford | 02/26/2003

(4 out of 5 stars)

"John Oates debut CD has finally arrived! John, the dark haired one of Hall & Oates, the most successful Duo of all time, steps out, in this long overdue solo effort.
This music reveals a more personal side of Oates. Notable tracks on this collection are, " Color Of Love", "All Good People" and "Love In A Dangerous Time".
For those of us who experienced our rites of passage in the late 60's and early 70's, this musical journey harkens us back, to a time, when our universe exhibited a kinder and more optimistic spirit. If you yearn to revisit those feelings, this CD will transport you there. Oates is a humanist at heart.
While this CD will probably not scream up the charts, it is a
sincere effort and deserves to be heard. Pickup a copy and see if you agree."