Search - Wayna :: Higher Ground

A Must Have CD!

Lady T | Georgia | 04/24/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This CD... Higher Ground is better than the majority of the stuff on the radio these days! I can not believe I've actually found a CD in which EVERY track is HOT! There is not one stinker on this CD. Wayna's delivery puts you in the mind of Erykah Badu's first CD... Wayna's originality and creativity are expressed in every song. This girl is NO studio artist... all natural. This CD is flat out, craftmanship... it really delievers! I so love "Close 2 U" featuring Ken Starr, I play it every day, about three or four times... hope I don't mess up my CD... I promise you, this CD will make you regret every R&B CD you purchased this year! Wish I could give more than 5 stars!! Nice work, Wayna; and I can't wait until you come to the "A"!!"

ANOTHER INSTANT CLASSIC!

J. Lewis | Silver Spring, MD USA | 04/12/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I remember when "Moments of Clarity, Book 1" was released back in 2004; Wayna's music grabbed me from the first track and held me spellbound until the last note of the final song. Before that time I had completely succumbed to the mainstream formula music virus. Finding that first album was my own personal re-discovery of what `real' music is and should be; music where the LYRICS ACTUALLY MATTER!



This album kicks off with "Moonlight Rendezvous"; the first single from this album that quickly found a home on the "Hot R&B Singles" Billboard charts. I just love this song; it has a very addictive quality that'll keep you playing it again and again...



"Billie Club" will have you hanging off of every word. Once again Wayna shows her ability to visually paint pictures in your mind with her vivid and powerful lyrics. This song on brutality from those charged with your protection will take you on a journey that is both thought-provoking and necessary.



The many love songs are a very welcome addition to this album. "A New Scenery" paints a picture of life when in love. "Loving You (Music)" is a refreshing update to the Minnie Ripperton classic (and yes, Wayna has the vocal range to hit that all important high note that the song is famous for). Then we have "Close to You"; a head nodding track about falling in love and the heartache that comes with wanting to be near that special person. "Daydream" (a personal favorite of mine) is a real joy to hear; being in love has never sounded so wonderful.



To describe "Mr. Duracell" wouldn't do it justice. This Neo-Soul treasure, in the tradition of Erykah Badu's "Tyrone", is one that you've just got to hear! It's a track that the ladies are sure to love (and should be required listening for all the men too). :)



"Office Politics" is as real as it gets. A song like this is another illustration of Wayna's remarkable lyrical ability. It gives an unflinching analysis of corporate work life and reflects on the personal ambitions that drive one to participate.



"My Love" (another favorite) is a heartfelt and powerful look at domestic violence and the thoughts, emotions, and actions of women living through this nightmare. Another very necessary piece, sung with the same emotional fire as "Mama's Sacrifice" from the first album. "Not Gonna Go" follows up with a focus on change and examination of the relationships you're in.



"Home" reminded me of "Slums of Paradise" from the first album in its storytelling ability. While with "Slums of Paradise" the focus was on the harsh realities of life effecting the people of Wayna's native Ethiopia; I'm tempted to say that "Home" tells the stories of the harsh realities facing the people here in the USA and their longing to go back home; be it to a physical place of familiarity, a moment in time when life was more joyful, longing for the return of a loved one, or even a desire to find a spiritual peace or heaven. In both cases the lyrics can be personally interpreted on a broader scope as well.



"Stalking Horse (the Cuba Joint)" tops off the album with it is jazzy upbeat tempo; again Wayna voice and lyrics shine.



The first album "Moments of Clarity, Book 1" was hailed as an instant classic. Wayna is that kind of artist that will make you fall in love with music all over again. If you ever have the opportunity to catch a live performance, it's an experiences that will stay with you for long after.



Wayna's sophomore album "Higher Ground" is another must have Gem! 5 Stars! Don't let this one pass you by!"

A timeless Cd i will listen to for a long time

Joshua A. Nyhaug | Chesapeake, Va | 01/26/2009

(4 out of 5 stars)

"forget all that Fad music you've grown custom to on the radio, listen to this cd. out with the garbage in with the sound of pureness and realness. Wayna has the most lovely voice, her soulfulness will take you on a ride. with the standout songs that caught my ear: daydream, my love and a wide range of other songs, it left me impressed after one listen."