Downings Incites "Emotions" Once Again
T. Yap | Sydney, NSW, Australia | 01/09/2005
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Prime Cuts: Hey There Lonely Girl, Beautiful to Me, A Million Ways
Hailed as the avatar of sensuality, Downing's 11th album "Emotions" continues to accost the rabid admiration of the hopelessly romantic. Accompanied by a cadre of laureate such as Norman Brown, George Duke, Kirk Whalum and Nicholas Payton, Downing continues to execute his trademark soulful tenor over some of the most quixotic musical expeditions. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Downing has resisted the cusp of commercial allure by not giving in to the beeps of the hip hop shenanigans. Rather, what we have here are 10 solid soulful numbers with a tilt towards modern smooth jazz. Ironically, "Emotions" is also one of Downings most successful albums of late, making its way to the number 2 position on Billboard's Modern Jazz album chart as well as bowing at number 9 on the R&B/Hip Hop album chart.
Without a doubt, "Hey There Lonely Girl" is easily the highlight. Abetted by the smooth vibes of tenor saxophonist Kirk Whalum, "Hey There Lonely Girl" is a milquetoast romantic invite from an earnest Downing over a gorgeous melody. Corollary to that, "Riding on a Cloud," a ballad coming from the pens of Barry Eastmond and Gordon Chambers, finds Downing on cloud nine basking in love's delight. For aficionados of Downings' late night love ballads such as "Maybe" from his "Sensual Journey" CD, "Falling in Love with Me" is sultry, sexy and warm. Love again is the theme of "Beautiful to Me," but this time we find Downing pouring out his heart to his daughter on this ode of paternal affection. Such benevolent affirmation from a father to his daughter is certainly much called for in this culture of the disintegration of the family.
On the uptempo side, lead single "A Million Ways" shows Downing's keening awareness of the opposite sex as he rightly points out that a woman's happiness is not restricted just to the bedroom. This is a much needed to hear advice from those who think that women are from Venus. Norman Brown adds his plush backing vocals to the easy going "King of Fools." As Downing has been known for his share of covers, this time two are included. "Anytime," a track from Janet Jackson's sex charged "Velvet Rope" CD, is perhaps an uncanny choice. Sad to say, Downing has blatantly tried to transposed Jackson's eroticism over with lustful moans which are uncalled for. Also, "Anytime" does not carry the same weight melodically as some of Downings' other covers (such as brother Michael Jackson's "I Can't Help It"). "Daydreaming" is the other cover this time from the Aretha Franklin. Compared to the Queen of Soul's spirited version, Downings' cover sounds tautological.
Nevertheless, for fans of smooth jazz and those who like R&B ballads, this is a collection great tunes from a seasoned artist who speaks the language of love with fresh argots and with an accent eloquent with sincerity. Thanks are in order to GRP Records for allowing Downing to advance his vision of music without concessions to the frivolity of today's music."
