Search - Omar Hakim :: Groovesmith

Drum groove-meister turns soul crooner!

paul_b21 | Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire United Kingdom | 07/10/2000

(2 out of 5 stars)

"If you are buying this then there's a good chance you are a big time 'Drummer' fan, with justifiably high expectations of Mr. Hakim. Anyone lucky enough to see him play 'live' with Sting or Madonna, or has heard albums by Marcus Miller / Miles Davis / Sanborn / Jo Sample etc. will know what I mean! Sadly Omar has moved in to the Soul arena a little too much for my liking, and quite honestly could consider leaving the vocals to others. Luckily there are several instrumental tracks on 'Groovesmith'; Sita's Dance which is slick and develops nicely, and the exceptional 'In The Arms of Dhyan' which has a great sound, and Omar propels it brilliantly and shows his real drum-class. The last track on the album is a fusion sound and has some edge, but the remainder drifts in to the Soul-Love-God-smoochin' catagory, but perhaps will appeal to the Pop crossover Soul audience. I'd have to recommend it to Drum-nuts, if only for the one or two exceptional tracks I've mentioned,& because his playing so grooving. The rest of the album is fine if you like a middle of the road happy pop sound."

A Very Exciting and Inspirational CD!

09/13/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Review by Jim Lovins Sr. OH-Zone Entertainment presents a new and exciting album - "The Groovesmith" featuring Omar Hakim, surrounded by some very talented people, with horn arrangements by the 911 Horns - Bobby Franchescini (tenor & soprano sax, flute), Barry Daniellian (trumpet & fluegelhorn), Ozzie Melendez (trombone) and John Scarpulla (tenor sax). The album is simply "pure" and " inspirational" with harmonious and individuality mixed in with Hakim using a special ingredient called "originality". Each selection is like no other, featuring jazz, soul, reggae and new age mixed with complete sensitivity, as illustrated by the music and lyrics of Hakim, James Golden, Jerry Brooks, Reggie Segars and Robert Madiou. A beautiful ballad is one of the highlights - "TREASURE" featuring Samora Free and Hakim in a haunting and lyrical duet, the melody and harmony is lingering. This CD will soak up your subconscious as you try to remember where you heard this wonderful music. Great things are in store for Omar Hakim, if this is a preview of coming attractions. "The Groovesmith" is a very exciting musical experience, and one you can't afford to miss!"

Other sides of Omar Hakim

John | New Milford, CT | 01/07/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Those who know Omar Hakim's history as the phenomenal drummer that has recorded and toured with Mile Davis, Dire Straits, Sting, Madonna, David Bowie and Wheather Report- to name only a few- and are expecting a drummers only CD...you may be disappointed. This CD shows many more sides to this artist and the drums aren't the main emphasis. Hakim's exceptional versatility as a drummer who has made a name for himself playing with some of the greatest Rock and Jazz musicians of our time is well documented. What isn't, is his ability as a song writer and vocalist. We had a taste of this with his only other solo CD "Rhythm Deep" which was Grammy nominated when it came out in 1989. This new CD was a long time coming and has a depth and maturity to it that makes it totally real to the listener. From the inspiring instrumental song "Sita's dance" to the more forceful and political "Stand Up" this CD is a real pleasure to listen to."