Archived Reviews

Wendy Ip – Fan Favourites So Far - Independent Originally from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Wendy Ip’s new CD is a collection of popular songs from recording sessions in New York, L.A. and Vancouver. “Fan Favourites So Far” is filled with catchy pop hooks, Beatles-esque melodies and sharp lyrics. The songs are fun and biting, often with bittersweet tales underpinned by the happy melodies. “Our Little Room” describes life in a cramped apartment, all the while dreaming of better days ahead. “Most Of The Time”, the album closer, is a haunting song about an abusive partner. Wendy’s sweet voice and gift for playing piano is showcased by the deft production skills of Joe Berardi and Joseph Briggs. After a couple of listens, these songs will be imbedded in your head. Sharyn MacEren – Always Dreamin’ – Planet Hype Previously known for her Billboard-charting single “Hard To Get” (under the moniker of “the S Factor”), California’s Sharyn MacEren releases her latest full-length album full of uptempo Pop and Dance grooves. Standout tracks include the summery “A Love Divine”, “When the Record Spins” and the trance-inflected “A Little More Time”. With all tracks produced by Glenn Gutierrez, (known for his work with Jocelyn Enriquez and Pinay) much of the music has a very retro Freestyle/Miami Bass style sound, reminiscent of artists like Cover Girls and Lil’ Suzy. However, because all the songs were produced by one person, many sound too similar beat-wise and sonically blend into each other. The bonus track called “Sharyn Uncovered” showcases Sharyn singing acapella versions of her songs. She has a good voice, and can reach even higher heights if she works with a variety of producers who can further develop her talents. Overall though, “Always Dreamin’” is full of cute and catchy Dance-Pop ditties, rivalling Kylie Minogue’s “Fever” album. And, unlike Kylie and many other dance artists who are just chirpy vocalists fronting for producers, Sharyn writes both the lyrics and music for all of her songs. With her skills in singing and songwriting, Sharyn is a rising star that we should be looking out for. Annie Lin – East Coast Songs – Ariadne Records Houston, Texas based Annie Lin specializes in playing “acoustic pop folk”. East Coast Songs is her latest CD, backed by the Pollack brothers on Bass and Drums. It features 8 new songs that showcase her melodic storytelling lyrics and nimble guitar playing, honed from playing at cafes and live houses all over the US and festivals like the Asian-American Songwriters Showcase Tour. Annie’s subject matter ranges from the mundane to topical. On “Cut Out The Skyline”, Lin tackles media coverage of the events of 9/11, wondering “What do you do when you've hung your flag and the radio says that's all you can do?” Her style evokes artists like Edie Brickell and Lisa Loeb, with a more aggressive and fun pop edge. The CD is intimate and engaging in nature and makes you feel like you’re sitting at a cafe while Annie and her band plays for a small circle of their closest friends. Pinay – What Now – Planet Hype A lot of things have changed for the sexy ladies of Pinay since we saw them last. Singers Loredie Lugos, Irma De Los Santos and Angelica Ablog have changed record labels and regrouped as a trio after seeing founding member Maylene Briones leave to go to medical school. Signing with Union City-based independent Planet Hype after their first album release on Classified/Tommy Boy Records, “What Now” was recorded over a period of six months. Beating the dreaded sophomore jinx, their sound on the new album has become more refined and confident. With a variety of producers and songwriters including JP Nebres and Matt Villacarte, Pinay deliver a sweet mix of uptempo Pop/R&B; and smooth Slow Jams. Their voices sound very comfortable together, blending harmoniously and simultaneously complementing and showcasing each others’ range. Highlights include the bouncy title track and a cover of The Jets’ “You Got It All Over Him”. “Unconditionally”, written by Angelica, is a gospel-tinged ballad that brings forth the vocal power of the trio. What now, indeed for Pinay? It seems to me that greatness looms on the horizon for these talented women. April 2003 Bob Sinclar - The Beat Goes On - Vendetta 12" This rare Italian 12" collects the best remixes of Bob's smash dancefloor hit into one nice package. The Defected UK release had the remixes spread over 3 separate 12" singles, while this one only has the best mixes. There's the electro disco of Bob's Original Mix; Junior Jack drops another trippy remix similar to his rework of "Shake It Baby" by DJD, and Roger Sanchez turns the track into a funky chunky tribal affair. Look out for mixes of the new single "Kiss My Eyes" soon to be in stores. Craig David - Rise and Fall - Wildstar 12" The original mix of this track featured Sting, who is nowhere to be heard on this remix package. On the A side, Kings of Soul turn out a mix quite appropriate for their name. It's sweet soulful House, though to me it's not that interesting. The B-Side features MJ Cole's mix, which is a wicked 4x4 Bumpy UK Garage style. Cut up vocals, guitar stabs and an MC help make this a perfect mix, which is my choice for the dancefloor. Planet Funk - Who Said (Stuck In The UK) - Bustin' Loose 12" Who Said is the latest single from this Anglo/Italo band, and it's a mashup between Rock and House. Both versions are wicked, with the irresistably catchy Album Version plus a re-rub from Moguai on the flip. Interesting enough, instead of a driving Trancer, Moguai decided to keep the original vibe and just pump up the groove while playing around with the vocals. I like this one a lot...Hopefully we'll see the Full-Length album from Planet Funk surface on our shores.> Frances Nero vs. K-Klass - Footsteps - SuSu 12" Test Pressing Oh, how I live for songs like this! K-Klass turn this Frances Nero soul jam into a full-fledged disco track! Luscious strings, guitars and drums combine with her vocals to make a true Nu-Disco gem. I've been trying to find a copy of this with the full vocals ever since SuSu put out their sampler 2 x 12", and I'm grateful to have finally found it! Although this might not be for everyone, it's a Sanfrandisco classic! March 24, 2003 Bini & Martini feat. Su'Su Bobien - Say Yes - Azuli My favourite Italian remix duo return on the scene with this twisted disco monster! After a bunch of Prog-styled remixes which weren't too much to my liking, "Say Yes" is a return to their more dancefloor-friendly style but with a tweaked-out twist. Su Su Bobien (from "You Don't Know" fame) provides the uplifting vocals while the music gets funky and squelchy at the same time...word has it this will be a WMC smash, but it's already a classic in my books. Say Yes to Bini & Martini, and pick this 12" asap!! As an aside, is it just me, or is Azuli getting cheap with their packaging?! This release was just a sticker stuck on top of an inner sleeve!! What happened to record jackets?? And why is the Goodfellas "All Night" release missing from the Azuli catalogue?? MJ Cole - Wondering Why - Talkin' Loud 12" OH OH OH! It's the new single from Mr. MJ Cole!!! Do I really have to say any more? Well, okay I'll say a few words about it. The 1st 12" single has the album mix with Vula, funky 4x4 Garage-House; a downtempo remix that was a bit on the dull side and a smashing Intalex remix on the D'n'B tip. However, I decided to skip this record and picked up 12" number 2, which has the deadly Zero Three Dub from MJ and a delicious House remix from Grant Nelson. This is another essential crate selection for all the garage/house heads out there. Lady Alma - Lift Your Voices - 83 West 12" This soulful track is produced by Toronto's Peter & Tyrone. It's a sweet number with a very soulful vocal from Philly's Lady Alma Horton. Besides the full vocal on the A-side, there is also a Dub and Padapella for the more creative DJ's. Ann Nesby - Let Your Will Be Done - Silk Entertainment 2 x 12" Originally released last year with more Dance-oriented remixes, "Let Your Will Be Done" is now issued on Steve Silk Hurley's label, as part of the Voices of Life album. This double pack features two Soulful remixes from Steve Silk Hurley and a remix from Louis Benedetti of SoulShine Records. All the mixes are quite nice, though I prefer Louis' mix the most. Royksopp - Eple - Wall of Sound 12" You should all know this song by now...along with the fabulous album version, you get a tripped-out electronic rework from Black Strobe and a nicely funked up affair from Boris Dlugosch and Michi Lange. A second 12" is also available with Fatboy Slim and Shakedown remixes. Everything But The Girl - Corcovado - Virgin 12" Promo EBTG give us their take on the classic Bossa Nova track. Knee Deep step in on remix duties with another one of their stomping grooves, a la "Pasilda". Ben Watt re-edits the Knee Deep remix and has Tracey re-sing the vocals on his take of the song. Another surefire hit! Next Evidence feat. N'Dea Davenport - Morning Breeze - Capitol France 12" One of my favourite vocalists, N'Dea (from the Brand New Heavies) appears on this latest release from French Hipsters Next Evidence. Morning Breeze is a cool soul jam in its original form, reminding me of the Acid Jazz sound of the early 90's. NE themselves provide a disco dub mix, but it's Dimitri From Paris who delivers the goods. He discofies the track in his new "Disco Blend", taking you to the dancefloor and never letting up for air. Essential. Masters At Work present A Tribute To Fela - MAW Expensive (Dimitri from Paris Re-Edit) - MAW Records 12" The title above says it all, with Dimi providing a more four on the floor version of this Dancefloor staple. A deeper-styled mix is on the B-side. September 4, 2002 In Es Project - "I'm Feeling Good" - Inhouse 12" Promo Billed as "A Todd Terry Remix", this is the Nina Simone remix you've been waiting for. Based around "Feeling Good", this track starts off with NuYorican style beats under Nina's unmistakable vocal, then turns into a deep house workout with proggy elements. Best heard on a loud soundsystem, like when Jazzy Jeff played it to a packed audience at the Palais Royale. This is a must have record! Donell Jones - "Put Me Down" - Arista 12" Promo Smooth R&B; from Mr. Jones, produced again by Untouchable Eddie F. Sounds reminiscent of "You Know What's Up" but is still a sweet little jam for the summertime. You can play this one with the top down driving down the coastal highway... Whitney Houston - "Whatchulookinat" - Arista 12" Whitney's new track was unexpectedly leaked early to radio to gage their reception to the release of this song as a single. They didn't bite, and now rumours are swirling that her first official "comeback" single will instead be a cover of Debbie Boone's "You Light Up My Life". It doesn't help matters that the video for this song has been scrapped. "Whatchulookinat" is a fairly catchy tune once you get around to listening to it. A semi-attack lyrically on all the gossip mongers who are hating on Ms. Houston, the track is co-produced by Bobby Brown and Muhammad 2G, a new producer "discovered" by Bobby. It's passable in its' original form, but nothing too spectacular. The pipes are there, but the people are waiting for something for spectacular. Remixes (on a separate 2 x 12" package) from Thunderpuss and Full Intention make for more entertaining listening. Clipse - "Grindin'" - Arista/Star Trak 12" Promo Another production from the red hot Neptunes, "Grindin" comes in two flavours: the original featuring NORE, Baby & Lil' Wayne plus the "Selector Remix" which features Toronto's own Kardinal Offishall and Sean Paul. The stark, simple stomping groove will make you move your backside in no time at all! This one's for the clubs... Jamiroquai - Love Foolosophy - Sony Canada 12" Promo This rare Canada only promo 12" features the best mixes of "Love Foolosophy" from Bini & Martini, Knee Deep, Mondo Grosso and Lottie. My fave is the Knee Deep Re-Edit, while the previously Japan CD only Mondo Grosso mix (produced by Shinichi Osawa) is great for the late night chill out crowd. The Bini & Martini mix is on their recent Progressive styled groove and Lottie's mix (only available on rare UK 12" Promo otherwise) is probably best left on that rare UK 12" Promo. An extra special bonus included is the delightful Blaze remix of "Little L". August 29, 2002 Brandy Full Moon - Full Intention/Ernie Lake Remixes - 2x12" Full Moon - Mike Rizzo/Filur vs C&J;/Robbie Rivera Remixes - 2x 12" Full Moon - Precision/Soulchild/C&J; Remixes - 2 x 12" Full Moon - Damien Mendis/Rascal Remixes - 12" All released on Atlantic Records Brandy's latest single is the title track off her new album, and it's been given the royal treatment. Originally produced by Mike City, "Full Moon" has now been worked over by a plethora of remixers for every audience: Full Intention & Filur for the Soulful/Vocal House crowd, Robbie Rivera, Mike Rizzo & Ernie Lake for the Dance/Circuit fans; Precision, Soulchild and Cutfather & Joe for the R&B;/Hip Hop heads, and finally Damien Mendis & Albert "One Rascal" Cabrera for the Old School/Disco freaks. Spread out over 3 separate Double Packs and a newly released single 12", all remixes work very well with the song and cater to many different markets. I personally prefer the Full Intention, C&J; and Rascal remixes the best. Full Intention do a classic soulful House re-touch that uses a lot of the original production keys. C&J; lay the vocals on top of "I.O.U." by Freeeze, and the Rascal remix drops Brandy's sultry vocals on top of Chic's "I Want Your Love" to massive effect. I felt like rollerskating around town after listening to that 12". 7 records worth of material is quite overwhelming, and it's great to see that Atlantic Records is still maintaining priority status on 12" singles for the market. "Full Moon" is one of my favourite songs of the year, and I gladly recommend picking a copy of the album and remixes asap. For those who don't have a turntable, never fear: Atlantic has released a CD Maxi-Single in the US filled with 12 different remixes of the song. June 15, 2002 Kylie Minogue Love at First Sight - Capitol 2 x 12" This is Kylie's latest single stateside, as well as in the UK. "Love at First Sight" is a good follow-up to "Can't Get You Out of My Head", emphasising a very catchy chorus backed with a cute filtered disco guitar loop. A bit reminiscent of Stardust's "Music Sounds Better With You". Remixes are from The Scumfrog, who delivers a 80's flavoured Progressive House version that comes in vocal and dub; Ruff & Jam who turn out two different mixes: a jazzy/breaky/loungey club mix and a poptastic 7" edit. Finally there is the Twin Master Plan mix, which is like a pumped up album version. G-Club presents Bando Sonora Guitarra G - Defected 12" This has been out for a while, but I finally picked up a copy. Perfect for the summertime, "Guitarra G" is a latin guitar led disco houser. The stunningly perfect G-Club Original Mix features a sample from Ashford & Simpson's "Bourgie Bourgie" that works the track very effectively. Other mixes include G-Club's Chilled mix, a tech-house version from Terry Lee Brown Jr. and a more pumped up mix from Warren Clarke. Essential for the Original Mix.

SAN FRAN IN THE MIX: Afrotransit March 29, 2007

Happy Spring Everyone!

I've finally emerged from my winter hibernation with a new radio mix for you to download. This mix was done live at CKLN 88.1 FM while I guest hosted the Afrotransit radio show on March 29th. I feature lots of new music and remixes, including some tracks from this year's Winter Music Conference (WMC 2007).

Tracklisting:
01. Gladys Knight - My Imagination (Quentin Harris & Timmy Regisford Re-Production) - Unrestricted Access
02. Bah Samba - Morris (Quentin Harris Remix) - BKO
03. Syren - My First Love (Frankie Feliciano Alternative Vocal) - Ricanstruction
04. Kentaro Takizawa - Feel Your Emotion (DJ Kawasaki Remix feat. Karin) - Extra Freedom
05. Peven Everett - Put Your Back Into It (Quentin Harris Remix) - United
06. Patter / Mr. V & Miss Patty - Da Bump (Ame Original Mix) - Defected
07. Franky Boissy feat. Roland Clark - Black Music (David Harness Taboo Mix) - Chez
08. Zoot Woman - Taken It All (Todd Edwards 'Soul Line' Remix) - Wall of Sound
09. Franky Boissy feat. Michael Watford - Back To My Roots (Muthafunkaz Remix) - Purple
10. Martin Solveig - Jealousy (Dennis Ferrer 'Haters' Dub) - Defected
11. Mitomi Tokoto - That Piano Track (Sergio Flores Chant Mix) - Japan House Mafia
12. Patter / Grand High Priest - Mary St. Mary (Sacred Rhythm Mix) - White
13. DJ San Fran vs. Stephanie Mills - Free Gets Jazzy (SFD Mashup Mix) - Unreleased CD-R

128kpbs MP3 Download - Right-click and select 'save-as' to download

You can burn the mix onto disc to listen as it's just under 80 minutes, and I've made a few 'proper' promotion CD copies for those who are interested. As always, send me an e-mail and let me know what you think. sanfrandisco (at) gmail.com

The copyright in this mix belongs to DJ San Fran / Francis Yee Loy © 2007-2010.
For Promotional Use Only.

CD Review - All Saints - Studio 1

Last week on March 20th, EMI Canada finally released "Studio 1", the comeback album from All Saints. Yes, those All Saints. The ones who gave us "Never Ever" and "I Know Where It's At". They're back! Well kinda...sorta...

News that the girls had reformed emerged in late January 2006, with an announcement that they had signed with Parlophone Records in the UK. In early November 2006, their comeback single, "Rock Steady", was released in the UK along with a remix by Toronto's MSTRKRFT. While the single reached #3 on the UK singles charts, the full album released shortly afterwards failed to ignite as much interest, reaching #40 on the UK Charts.

A second single, "Chick Fit" was to be released at the end of February 2007, but it ended up being a download-only release. An announcement quickly followed that All Saints had parted ways with Parlophone. The girls retain all rights to the album and are planning to keep on despite press negativity.

After some searching, I was able to pick up the CD...not many stores were even aware that it had been released over here in Canada. Great job at promotion EMI! What a brilliant idea to release a CD weeks after the group isn't even on the label anymore. I guess that way the "low sales" excuse can be justified.

Anyways, for those who do enjoy All Saints, the album is quite fun and shows the band maturing in their sound, mixing up the Pop and R&B with Ska, Reggae and Electro influences.

Listen to the Kissy Sell Out remix of "Chick Fit" below. If you like what you hear, pick up the domestic copy in stores or on iTunes.

DJ San Fran In The Mix : Afrotransit November 23, 2006

DJ San Fran In The Mix : Afrotransit Fill-In - November 23, 2006

This mix originally aired live on CKLN 88.1 FM Toronto. I guest-hosted for my friend Nik Red's "Afrotransit" show. I decided to play lots of sexy and soulful House for your dancing pleasure. Let me know what you think!

Direct Download - 96 kpbs MP3 - Right-click and choose "save as" to download
Tracklisting:

01. The Coach House Rhythm Section - Timewarp
02. Goldfrapp - Ride A White Horse (FK-EK Vocal Mix)
03. Ame - Rej (A Hundred Birds Remix)
04. Ferrer & Sydenham Inc. - Sandcastles (Pete Heller Filtered Re-Edit)
05. R.E.M. - Losing My Religion (Shelter Vocal Mix by Timmy Regisford)
06. Justin Timberlake - My Love (Quentin Harris Mix)
07. Julien Jabre - Paixao
08. Jamiroquai - Canned Heat (MAW Remix)
09. Studio Apartment - Flight (Frankie Feliciano Mix)
10. Luther Vandross - Shine (Geoffrey C. Remix)
11. MC Mellow Dee - And You Don't Stop
12. Mr. V & Miss Patty - Da Bump
13. Teena Marie - I Need Your Lovin' (Full Intention Remix)
14. Fertile Ground - Live In The Light (Copyright Re-Edit)
15. Franck Roger & Olivier Portal feat. Chris Wonder - Me, Myself & I (Distant Music Mix)
16. Tortured Soul - Don't Hold Me Down (Quentin Harris Mix) - R2
17. Nina Simone - Here Comes The Sun (Francois K Remix)

The copyright in this mix belongs to DJ San Fran / Francis Yee Loy © 2006-7.
For Promotional Use Only.

DJ San Fran In The Mix : Afrotransit May 4, 2006

Earlier in the summer, I guest hosted for a few weeks on my friend Nik Red's radio show called "Afrotransit" on CKLN 88.1 FM. Here's the recording of the show. I started things off with some soul and disco classics from the new Tom Moulton compilation album plus tunes from Lisa Lisa and Nelly Furtado. The second set is full of soulful House tunes that I hope you enjoy!

DJ San Fran In The Mix
Guest Host - Afrotransit - May 4, 2006

56 kpbs mp3 Direct Download - Right click and select "save" to download


TRACKLISTING:
01. Show Intro / Patti Jo - Make Me Believe In You
02. Andrea True Connection - More, More, More (A Tom Moulton Mix)
03. Lisa Lisa and Cult Jam - Let The Beat Hit 'Em
04. Nelly Furtado - No Hay Igual
05. Shakira - Hips Don't Lie (DJ Kazzanova Instrumental) / Show Patter
06. Ron Hall & The Muthafunkaz feat. Mark Evans - The Way That You Love Me (Dim's TSOP Version)
07. Bobby D'Ambrosio feat. LaSala - Runaway Love (Marquito's Classic Rework)
08. Reel People feat. Angela Johnson - In The Sun (Muthafunkaz Remix)
09. Shapeshifters feat. Chic - Sensitivity
10. CeCe Peniston - I'm In The Mood (Def Club Mix)
11. Show Patter / SUMO feat. Clarisse Muvemba - Nini (Sanfrandisco Anthem Re-Edit)
12. Double - Rock The Party (Studio Apartment Remix)
13. Donnie - Cloud 9 (Quentin Harris Mix)
14. Louie Vega feat. Anane - Mon Amour (DJ Gregory Remix) / Show Patter
15. Leela James - My Joy (Shelter Instrumental)
16. Mariah Carey - Don't Forget About Us (Quentin Harris Shelter Anthem)
17. Rufus & Chaka Khan - Any Love (Dim's Classic Re-Edit)
18. Bibi feat. Ce Ce Peniston - Eternal Lover / Show Outro


If you enjoyed this, let me know! Send a shout to sanfrandisco [at] gmail.com

DJ SAN FRAN IN THE MIX : Afrotransit May 11, 2006

DJ San Fran In The Mix
Afrotransit Guest Host - May 11, 2006
CKLN 88.1 FM Toronto

This mix is the second of two shows I hosted while Nikki Red was away in Memphis . It features my selection of Funk, R&B, Disco, Classic and Current House tunes. It originally aired live on CKLN 88.1 FM here in Toronto, Canada. Enjoy!

128 kpbs MP3 download - Right click and choose "save as" to download


Playlist
01. Intro / Eddie Kendricks - Keep On Truckin' (A Tom Moulton Mix)
02. Mary J. Blige - Mary Jane (All Night Long)
03. Chantay Savage - Betcha'll Never Find (Silk's Old Skool Mix)
04. JT and the Big Family - Moments In Soul
05. Vaughn Mason - Bounce, Rock, Skate, Roll (Part 2)
06. Chaka Khan - I Know You, I Live You (Tony Humphries Mix) / Show Patter
07. Ashford & Simpson - Bourgie, Bourgie
08. Inner City - Buena Vida (Ian Pooley's "La Buena Vida En Notas" Mix)
09. Levitation - More Than Ever People (Can 7 Seawind Mix)
10. Touch One - Electric Breeez
11. Incognito - Pieces Of A Dream (Roger's 7 Minutes of Soul Mix)
12. Frankie Knuckles presents Satoshi Tomiie - Tears (feat. Roberts Owens)
13. Byron Stingily - Hate Won't Change Me (produced by Quentin Harris)
14. Leela James - My Joy (Timmy Regisford Shelter Vocal)
15. Masters At Work feat. India - I Can't Get No Sleep (No Sleep in '95 Mix)
16. Skyy - High (Kenny Dope Remix)
17. Kirk Franklin - Looking For You
18. The O'Jays - Put Our Heads Together / Outro

Direct Download - 128 kpbs MP3 - Right Click and choose "save file as" to download

Single Reviews - January 18, 1999

Incognito - "Nights Over Egypt" - Talkin' Loud UK 12"
UK's premier soul jazz band returns with a vengeance!!! Their first single from the latest album "No Time Like The Future" is a cover of the classic originally done by the Jones Girls. Taking over the vocals are Maysa Leak and disco diva Jocelyn Brown. A very classy production is given the Masters At Work and MJ Cole remix treatment. MAW deliver a smooth and sizzling house mix dripping with strings and horns. There are even vocal and instrumental hooks from "Colibri", one of Incognito's first hits, thrown into the mix. MJ Cole speeds things up a bit and turns in a classic garage mix that still has most of the elements, but also has a two-step edge to it. Prime music for the dancefloor and for your soul.

Satoshi Tomiie featuring Robert Owens and Cevin Fisher - "Darkness" - INCredible UK 12"
I have loved Satoshi Tomiie's music since I first heard "Tears" and "And I Loved You" way back when, but I have to say that his latest work really disappoints me. "Darkness" is a very dark and depressing track. Moody and atmospheric, it's stark beats and arrangement do nothing to compliment Robert Owens' voice. His vocal talents are sadly wasted. The track is not helped in any way by the spoken word grumblings of house producer Ceving Fisher, either. An unfortunate mess. I hope Satoshi gets back to his "Def Mix" roots and makes music that we can really groove to.

Blue 6 - "Sweeter Love" - Wave US 12"
This track is already a classic. Produced by Jay Denes of Naked Music NYC, this track is a beautiful mix of simple melody, stellar vocals and tight production. The music is very basic and stark in its features, but works its way into your body after just one listen. The B-Side has "Body and Soul" style remixes from Matthias Heillbronn, which work quite well too. Another must-buy!

TLC - "Silly Ho/No Scrubs" - LaFace 12"
On the unofficial single "Silly Ho", TLC kicks back on the scene with a vengeance. Dallas Austin jumps on the Timbaland production style bandwagon with its whoops, chants and sirens. A catchy gem that will make you dance. Same goes for "No Scrubs", the real first single off the new "Fan Mail" album. Great vocal arrangement from Kelly Price.

Tatyana Ali - "Boy You Knock Me Out" - Epic/MJJ UK 12"
The newest single from the former star of "Fresh Prince Of Bel Air" features the "Big Willie Style" remix featuring Will Smith. This is a funky r&b jam with a very pop feel. Very nice vocal arrangement from the talented Kelly Price. Nice delivery from Tatyana too. There are also three "Xclusive" house mixes from Maurice Joshua. He delivers a very nice vocal house version, with beautiful piano and bassline that complements the melody. He's been doing some very solid mixes lately, after a long absence from the scene.

Basement Jaxx - "Rendez-Vous/Jump and Shout" - Atlantic Jaxx/XL UK 12"
Finally, a new 12" from Basement Jaxx after a very quiet 1998. This is a limited two song EP, with two mixes of each song. "Rendez-Vous" is a groovy track that bases itself on a flamenco-style guitar performance. "Jump and Shout" is a crowd rousing jam, with a dancehall style MC doing vocals. The beats get all freaky towards the end in usual Basement Jaxx schizophrenia. I love it! Get it before it's gone....i heard there's only 500 or so copies pressed or is it 5000?

Mariah Carey - "I Still Believe" - Columbia 2x12"
The power ballad from her "#1's" CD gets the deluxe remix treatment over two twelve inches of vinyl. The first 12" features R&B remixes from Stevie J. and Damizza. While these are very close in tempo to the original version, they are all completely new and separate productions. Very different from the original, but they grow on you after a few listens. Stevie J's mix features Mocha and Amil, It has a chugging east coast Bad Boy style sound. The Damizza Reemix features Krayzie Bone (who was on the "Breakdown" remix) and Da Brat (featured on numerous MC remixes). This mix is very downtempo west coast mellow style with a little bit of bite from Da Brat. The second 12" has house mixes from David Morales. The "Classic Club Mix" is the typical dance mix of the original, but the "Eve Of Souls" mix is the one to go for....completely new music and vocal production with a party/fiesta feel. "The Kings Mix" uses much of the same vocal from the "Eve of Souls" mix, but has an annoying synth noise...it's almost techno to me.....I'd like to see if Mariah will ever get anyone else than David Morales to do a house remix.....Masters At Work might be nice....especially since she likes to rework the entire song for a remix.....oh well.....

Ali - "Love Letters" - Polydor UK 2x12"
This is the newest single from UK soul singer Ali, and there's a whole slew of remixes to support it. This double pack in the white sleeve features remixes from Todd Edwards, Industry Standard and Phil Dane. Industry Standard's mix is moody speed garage/two-step style, with some vocals. Todd Edwards' mixes are his trademark chop and paste edit sample style, with crazy disco strings and mixed up vocal samples. He has a full vocal and also a nice dub. Phil Dane's mixes are in a more progressive UK dance style. There is also another 12" in a red sleeve which features R&B remixes from Ignorantz. Very nice set of mixes.

Ce Ce Peniston - "The Best of Ce Ce Peniston" - A&M UK CD
One of the best (but VERY underrated) vocalists around FINALLY gets her own "best-of" compilation. And what a compilation it is!!!!! 13 songs and remixes from Ce Ce's three albums. All the hits are here: "Finally", "We got A Love Thang", "Crazy Love", "I'm In The Mood", etc....The CD is a good mix of both uptempo dance tracks that she is famous for, as well as her funky R&B jams. Since most of the songs have already been released, A&M wisely includes some remixes: Eric Kupper's new remix for "Finally", David Morales' old school styled remix for "Somebody Else's Guy", the rare KenLou 12" mix for "Crazy Love" by Masters At Work (much superior to the original), as well as the new Tuff Jam garage remix for "somebody Else's Guy". It's a very well-rounded package for fans. However, it's a total shame that it's not being released in North America. Get your hands on an import copy when you see it!!!

Single Reviews - December 21, 1998

December 21, 1998

Billie - "She Wants You" - Innocent/Virgin UK CD-5
This is Billie Piper's latest single from "Honey To The B", just in time for the Holiday rush....I really like it! Classic pop song structure and a very catchy melody line and chorus. 

CD 1 comes with two cover version B-sides: "It Takes Two" and Wham!'s "Last Christmas". The former is not too bad, but nothing special. However, "Last Christmas" is a really nice number. Very good production and vocals from Billie. It might be even more enjoyable than the original!

CD 2 features remixes from Erick Morillo and Cevin Fisher. With "Because We Want To" and "Girlfriend" getting UK progressive styled mixes from Tall Paul and Tin Tin Out respectively, it's a welcome change to get some remixers from New York. Erick Morillo's mix is pretty standard house fare, nothing really exciting. Though he does use almost the whole vocal, which I always like. Cevin Fisher's version is more of a dub. Not too much of the original vocal track, just little samples here and there. I'm hoping to get a copy of the vinyl 12". It has the Erick Morillo dub, which will hopefully be more exciting as well as a new remix from the Sharp Boys.

Tom and Joyce - "Vai Minha Tristeza" - Yellow Records 12"
Delicious new Brazilian vocal track from Thomas Naim and Joyce Hoze. Original and acoustic mixes on the first side, with the B-side having a slightly different interpretation: "Bob's Le Mix", from Bob Sinclar. This one uses a different Housy drum pattern and has nice keys from Cutee B, who you've probably heard on Dimitri From Paris' productions. A Must-have!

Fat Joe - "Bet Ya Man Can't" - Big Beat/Atlantic 12"
The latest from "Don Cartagena" features Big Pun, Cuban Link and Triple Seis in a catchy jam that is very similar to "still not a player". Recommended party track.....

Nick Holder - "Retrospective EP" - DNH Records 12"
One of Nick's most recent releases, and one of his best! The A-side track, "Da Sambafrique" is an instant jazz-house classic. Great keyboard and sax loops. Beautiful! I only wish that it was much longer.... The B-side has a more mellow house vibe, called "Feelin' Sad" Bonus beats for each track round off the 12" package.

Single Reviews - November 20, 1998

November 20, 1998

Billie - "Girlfriend" - Virgin UK 12"
The newest teen singer from the UK drops her newest single. "Girlfriend" is a nice R&B/pop confection produced by Cutfather and Joe. It's a more mellow vibe than her first single, "Because We Want To". Remixes are from Tin Tin Out, which reworks the track into the progressive UK dance style, and D Influence, who does a stellar job mixing old breakbeats and melody lines from "Too Close" by Next and "Genius of Love" by Tom Tom Club for the music background. A nice party starter. The 12" also features "Love Groove," a track taken from her debut album "Honey to the B".

Mass Syndicate featuring Su Su Bobien - "You Don't Know" - Strictly Rhythm 12"
Everyone who loves good house music should have at least heard this gospel stormer by now..."You Don't know what you did to me...Did toooo Meeeeee...." Produced by Sandro Russo and Andreino from Italy, this song is one of the best vocal house tracks I've heard in a long time...irresistible chorus and production....love that piano! Go out and buy this record now!

Will Smith - "Miami" - Columbia EU 12"
Big Willie's new track is yet another rap lite party jam. In its original version (which strangely is not available on this 12"), "Miami" is a funky Trackmasterz production which owes it's catchiness to the use of The Whispers' "And The Beat Goes On" sample. However, this 12" features a bunch of new versions, which are more in a dance groove. The credits make the "Miami Mix" appear to be the album version. However, it is actually a remix by and featuring Miami Sound Machine. Snippets of "Conga" are even used in the mix. 

The other two mixes are by Jason Nevins, who does a surprisingly good job. The "Live at 54 Mix" turns the song into a disco hip house reworking. The "Live On South Beach Dub" is a sweaty latin tribal fiesta. I really like that mix. Quite entertaining versions, even though I usually don't like Jason Nevins' remixes. Very nice pressing on 45 RPM, too. I just wish the original mix was on there. Maybe they'll issue it on the US pressing.

All Saints - The Remix Album - London CD
Just in time for the Christmas season, we have a new All Saints CD. It's not a new album, but a remix album. A very good remix album at that. Mixed by the legendary Pete Tong (BBC1's "Essential Mix"), the CD features remixes that were only previously available on promo 12" and limited edition CD singles. All of their hits are available here in multiple versions: I Know Where It's At, Never Ever, Bootie Call, Under The Bridge, Lady Marmalade....remixes are by Ignorantz, Charles "Mixologist" Roane (erroneously miscredited to someone else), Dreem Team, Club Asylum, Ganja Kru and more! The drum and bass reworking of "War of Nerves" and Dreem Team's rejigging of "Bootie Call" are especially good. And it's only $10.99 at Sam the Record Man! Worth a listen, even if you aren't a fan....

Red Snapper - "Image Of You" - Warp UK 12"
I don't really like the A-side remixes of this song....Shut Up and Dance deliver a very boring and listless version....I really don't want to dance until the BPMs are increased a lot faster....Rae and Christian's mix is ok, but I really like the Salt City Orchestra Vocal, which is their usual dark, deep house style...

Stetsasonic - "Talkin' All That Jazz" - Tommy Boy UK 12"
The first remix for the new Tommy Boy Greatest Beats compilation in the UK. The US remixes have released "Jump Around" instead....Dimitri from Paris is the man chosen to redo this hip hop classic. He does not disappoint..."Dim's Respect For The Old School" takes the original rap and builds a ten minute disco symphony around it...Stellar work....The B-side features the original and a beats and breaks edit of the Dimitri mix by Torti...yummy.

Scott Grooves featuring Parliament/Funkadelic - Mothership Reconnection - Soma Records UK 12"
This track takes samples from a live recording of "Mothership Connection", loops them around and adds a live drummer and a disco house arrangeement. Devastatingly good! The B-Side has an incredible remix by Daft Punk. Killer....

Indo - "Are You Sleeping" (Bump and Flex Mixes) - Azuli 12" Test Pressing
The classic Hula/K. Fingers production gets yet another slab of vinyl remixes...this time courtesy of Bump and Flex. While the original cannot be topped, some nice 2-step style remixes are here. I prefer the mix with the vocal, which is on the side with printing. The flip is just the same, but without the main vocal, which makes it a lot less interesting.

Jhelisa - "Friendly Pressure" - Dorado 12"
One of the soul-jazz singer's most popular tracks gets a rerelease for 1998. This time, it features speed garage and 2-Step remixes from Sunship. Don't sleep on this jam! It's big in the UK, especially with people like Tuff Jam. However, hardly any copies seem to have made their way over the ocean...pick it up if you find it!

Single Reviews - October 19, 1998

October 19, 1998
This time round...remixes of R&B Tracks...

Monica - The First Night - Arista UK 12"
The North American hit smash finally gets a UK release! On the a-side are the original mix and the remix from JD. Both are solid. It's the flip that has the club mixes to check out. Arista UK has gotten Gary Booker, aka Booker T to do the remix duties. While the main vocal remix isn't the best that Booker T has done, it's still nice. It has the classic vocal house/garage flavour that you get with his mixes. The only fault is that the vocals sound slightly off-key with the music. The Booker T dub is also good. Thank goodness that they didn't release the Razor and Guido remixes on this pressing. Let's hope whoever is in charge of BMG's dance department realizes that R-n-G are not a good choice for dance remixes...is it still Vince DeGeorgio?

All Saints - Bootie Call - London UK CD-single
This is the two track CD single released for Bootie Call, not the two part maxi-CD release reviewed earlier. If I could turn back time, I would have just waited for this version to buy. It has the radio mix of Bootie Call, plus has the Club Asylum "Skank" Vocal Mix, which is much better than the remix available on the other versions. I just wish that the Club Asylum Dub was included on this release as well.

Cleopatra - Life Ain't Easy - Maverick/Warner 12"
This is the second single from England's teen sensations Cleopatra. It's a strong followup to their first single, "Cleopatra's Theme", which had a funky new US remix. This time around, the label has decided to just release all the original UK remixes. On the vinyl release, remixes are from Direktorz, Artful Dodger, Booker T and Full Crew (though this mix isn't credited anywhere at all on the sleeve.) The Direktorz give the song a more summery, laid back feel, emphasizing the gospel style vocal. It actually reminds me of Steve Silk Hurley's "Old Skool" R&B mixes that he did for Ce Ce Peniston, Chantay Savage and Janet Jackson. Full Crew aim for a more jumping party mix, sampling from The Jackson 5's "I Want You Back". Artful Dodger and Booker T deliver solid house mixes on the flip side. I like Booker T's mix more, but the 12" is a solid package of music.

Kenny Lattimore - "Days Like This" - Columbia 12" Promo
One of the best soul singers this decade returns with a brand new track! "Days Like This" is a limited promo-only release which features remixes from Masters At Work and M'Du. MAW turns in two different reworkings of the song. The "Lattimaw Soul House Mix" has a smooth house groove with a nice bassline and great vocals from Kenny. The "Nuyorican Soul" mix delivers their trademark sycopated beats and rhythms. On the flip, M'Du slows it down for an older house feel, with heavily sampled vocals in the intro. Both sides seem to sound like new and separate productions of the track, as the vocals are quite different. Strongly recommended that those who love vocal house get this record. It's not going to be in the stores for long!

Faith Evans - "Love Like This" - Bad Boy 12" Promo
This is the first single off her new album, "Keep The Faith". It's a good taste of what's to come. While the music relies on Puffy's trademark use of familiar songs - this time it's "Chic Cheer" by Chic - at least this time they've chosen a song that people don't know as well. Faith gives a nice vocal delivery that distinguishes this release from other cookie-cutter R&B releases. Plus it's irresistably catchy. They will inevitably release a remix, but I think the original will be hard to top.

Mya with special guest Sisqo - It's All About Me (Club Remixes) - Interscope/University 12" Promo
My first introduction to Mya was the horrific "Ghetto Supastar" song that was inexplicably popular (and still is) in clubs. I couldn't take the irritating chorus, and I thought Mya's voice was way too shrill. However, this release has gotten me interested in her singing again. While I didn't really pay attention to the original slow jam version, the release of additional promo only mixes for the clubs made me check them out. I enjoy hearing how R&B songs are remixed into house/garage/dance anthems, and usually most of them are lacking, but this was a pleasant surprise. The main remix was done by Hula (from Hula and K. Fingers/Outhere Brothers/Indo- "Are You Sleeping" fame). It's a good dance mix with some nice garage flavour. It also has some hints of beats from the Todd Terry/EBTG "Missing" remix. I think record companies should get Hula to do some more remixes rather than say Junior Vasquez. No one needs that much drama and cheese in a song. The B-side features a Mijangos remix that is alright, but leaves out most of the vocals. It makes you think it's going to be a speed garage-type mix with this majorly time stretched vocal snippet from Sisqo, but then lets you down. There's also a decent booty mix from some guy named "Slammin' Sam".

Linda Clifford - Runaway Love - Curtom 12" Promo
While I already have the Masters At Work remix/re-edit on the "Everybody Dance" compilation, I finally found a copy of the original 12" for 50 cents in a used shop. It was a true find. I prefer the original version more than the remix. Nine minutes and forty-four seconds of sweetness. I love the horns in the song.

Janet Jackson - Go Deep (R&B Mixes) - Virgin 12" Promo
Janet Jackson - Go Deep (Club Mixes) - Virgin 2x12" Promo
I've had these records for quite a while now (since July) but they've been playing non stop since then! I was overjoyed when I found out that my favourite song off "The Velvet Rope" would be released as a single and remixed by Masters At Work, Teddy Riley, Timbaland, Missy Elliott and Roni Size no less! The original mix has great production from Jam and Lewis and the most infectious groove I've ever heard! I've listened to the song hundreds of times and it still makes me move! Other songs I listen for a couple of times over and I already can't stand them. Timbaland and Missy give the song their own sound and a new chorus as well! Teddy delivers a solid groove with a heavy bass. It's a bit too slow, though. Pitch it up to at least +2. Roni Size's version had me going "What?!" when I first heard it as he has tweaked the vocals to make it sound off. I didn't like it at first, but listening to it repeatedly has gotten me into it. Plus, it has a hilarious phone conversation in the middle of it! 

The best mixes in the remix pack come from Masters At Work. The House mix is absolutely beautiful, with a flute solo. The "Deep Disco Dub" is the mix I always play, but others seem to like the "Spiritual Flute Dub", which is mostly instrumental. There is also a solid downtempo mix from MAW. If you want the original, there is also an extended mix thrown into the double pack. One of my favourite releases this year! I'm not exactly sure if this was commercially released in the US or not, as I've only seen US vinyl promos while it is available readily on CD here in Canada domestically and on import from the UK.

Monica - The First Night (Razor and Guido Remixes) - Arista 12" Promo
Eccch. The massacre of a classic. Razor and Guido demolish what was an irresistable R&B gem. Now, it's all cheesy synths and sirens, total production overkill. Will Arista never learn? Get someone else to remix the R&B jams into House/Dance tracks. Even I could do a better job than that, and I don't have any formal music production experience! Ghastly remix. Let's hope this stays as a promo. Though it's a shame how much vinyl was wasted on that...