Search - Blaze :: Spiritually Speaking

Spiritually fulfilling

Jetrocket | New York, NY United States | 09/20/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Blaze's new joint 'Spiritually Speaking' has finally arrived after all its initial hyping at this year's Miami Dance Music Conference. I am happy to report it fulfills its promise. 13 tracks of blissed-out soul and house music provide a listening experience that takes you from the dance floor to the living room. Their fourth full player is arguably their best and most cohesive. This time around the Earth Wind and Fire vibe is all throughout the cd. In fact it is perhaps the best EWF cd since "Spirit"! From the opening track "Melodies of Love" -- the familiar "bodi-bad-dah de yeyoo" chorus patented by EWF lets the listener know that "Spritually Speaking" is as much an homage to this archetypical group as it is a current plea towards universal love and acceptance. Josh Milan and Kevin Hodges craft simple and effective songs that are awashed in gorgeous melodies, memorable hooks and classic dance rythms that will be sure to endure beyond current trends. Highlights include the optimistic/mystical "Breathe" reportedly featuring EWF's Philip Bailey (but i can't really hear it!); Gloria's Muse is a gorgeous, evolving piano-led jazz dance track; guest vocalist Amira sings so soulfully on "When I think of you' and Black Bird flying Free (1&2) are of epic proportions. My current favorite track is "World Peace' -- a seriously soulful high point in the Blaze cannon. Overall the key words to describe the cd are soulful, masterful and positive. Highly recommmended - particularly for those in need of hope and affirmation. Job well done."