If you’re the type that is all about post 90s syrupy smooth slow jams, Dwele’s new album, Sketches of a Man, is definitely for you.
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I’m going to start this year off somewhat right by listening to more music. Then railing on it (not always).

This week I received Raheem Devaughn in it’s totally radio ready R&B package. I’m always listening for something different, something that will stand out. Or at least something standard that is done so well it makes me rethink what the standard should be. So Mr Devaughn I will agree with Alicia Keys in that your voice is smooth but allow me to skip ahead a few tracks to the Scott Storch produced track “Energy”. The smart thing about this record so far is that the production is subtle enough to feature his voice. What’s up with Big Boi name checking Bill and Hilary? Has the Obama show not stopped through the Dirty South yet?

The song “Butterflies” has a bit more character with this live production. Raheem probably really brings it in front of a live band. This song will never see the light of day because it’s not the typical urban radio set. This is where he is evoking Hathaway and Withers.

Marathon featuring Floetry finds Raheem getting sensual in that quiet storm kinda way. Which is really what the entire R&B genre should be about anyway. What is missing from most of the songs I have heard so far is the low end theory, ya know a little bump and grind. ( please refer to “Bump and Grind”) . Which may be cause to over look this recording.

Let me not forget the Prom Theme 2008 / Party Anthem “Friday ( Shut The Club Down). Not only does he incorporate party standards ” Party Like A Rock Star” and The Temptations “My Girl”, I’m sure the inevitable remixes will remind me why I should be home on Friday nights.

Party Responsibly Raheem

Physical manifestation of Love Behind The Melody is in store January 15th.