A treasure trove of obscure material given new life...
Jeremy Gloff | Tampa, Fl United States | 01/01/2008
(4 out of 5 stars)
"It's strange how music comes into my life. I don't find it. It finds me. I have never been able to have a friend introduce me to an artist. I never enjoy the music that is played to me. But songs and artists come into my life out of the blue, and at exactly the time they need to come into my life.
One afternoon earlier this year I was sitting at my computer and out of the blue it occured to me that I should check out Alicia Bridges. I knew "Nightlife" of course, and that's one of the strangest, campiest, and unique songs I've ever heard. Alicia's delivery is one of a kind. I knew at that moment I had to see what this woman's other music was like.
I originally bought an import compilation (that included most of the tracks from Alicia's first two albums) and "THis Girl Can't Help IT" (which is a remaster of Alicia's third album). I was hooked and moved by the music.
Along comes "Say It Sister". This compilation also collects songs from Alicia's first two albums but for me it was a must-have because all the songs left off the other comp are included here.
The opening track is immediately a winner. Alicia's vocals are exhuberant and alive. Sometimes I laugh at how bizarre some of Bridges vocal inflections are, but in a loving way. This woman seems to be very passionate about her music and her lyrics. It must also be noted how versatile she is as an artist. The songs really do range from rock rock to blues to disco to ballad to art song and back.
My personal favorites on this comp are "What Would You Do If Your Heart Stopped Beating Tonight" and "In The Name Of Love" - I feel these songs capture Alicia at her most emotional. The lyrics are brilliant and I can relate.
I also do not agree that "I Love The Nightlife" was Alicia Bridges masterpiece. That honor would have to go to "Diamond In The Rough". That song says something that I really think a lot of people can relate to. I know in different articles it has been referenced that it's message of "changing to fit in" may be attibuted to Alicia's sexuality. This may be so, but the scope of this song is much much wider than that in my opinion. This world is full of vibrant thinkers, and artists, and individuals who don't seem to fit into any easy boxes. That song is our anthem. Thank you Alicia. Now that all your old music is re-issued I hope you write some new stuff. I'd love to write with you. Glad to see these songs dusted of and given a new life."
Say It Sister
Murray | 11/24/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Alicia Bridges famous for her dance hit I Love The Nightlife, now a publisher released Say It Sister to showcase her original music. And WOW, if you think you have heard and loved I Love The Nightlife, then think again. You will love Alicia's version with the original background singers and instruments as never heard before. Do yourself a favor and buy this for your next party. You will be the hit of the night."
Track Listings (11) - Disc #1
