The Diary of A.K.

Sticking with the soul circuit, one album I have kept in my CD player for months has been Miss Alicia Keys' second effort "The Diary of Alicia Keys." What a wonderfully done album and a superb example of how to grow from one album to the next. Miss Keys flows as beautifully as her name. All facets of this talent has blossomed tremendously from her debut, which was a masterpiece in its own right. What really gets me with Alicia Keys is her inevitable ability to blend classic piano training with crazy hot hip-hop beats that somehow results in a great sonic balance that appeals to all. Even her dabble with old soul classics are brillantly revived in a way that is respectful of the original, but has crazy modern appeal. Only true talent can exude such excellence in its craft. As track #3 says, "Go 'head girl".

Recommendation: A must-get if you love R&B soul music. A definite if you want to relive Alicia's brillance from her first album.

Sista Soulja

Extra, extra, read all about it!! England of all places, has a brillant new addition to the R&B soul circuit...and it's none other than Joss Stone. This not-your-typical-sista has some serious pipes, so peep this folks. Joss takes all (like she did on Divas Live 2004) and she's not even 20 yet. Seriously, this album is filled with some ancient 1950s soul music, with a delivery as solid as Ms. Stone's last name. Joss makes the album hers with tight adlibs, tasteful croons, and live studio instrumentation. Be ready to be blown away as this young laddie blows up the music scene.

Recommendation: Check out Track #4 "Victim of a Foolish Heart". We've all been there folks!!

Mmmm good....Black Eye Peas

Thanks Vijay for your loyalty to my music blog. It's been a while, even for me. I believe the band you saw on...Leno was it?....were the Black Eye Peas. I guess you can call them alternative rap if anything. They definitely explore the boundaries of hip hop in their own way. I think they are kind of funky, although I must admit I don't not really listen to them. They are the type of band I like to catch when I catch them and that's it, you know? Anyway, hats off to you for digging them though. Although you fall a severe number of points for liking Shania Twain. Beautiful girl yes!! Country pop, no!! NEXT.....Love ya babe!!

PS Your sweetie pie will be home soon...you must be excited!!