The Basement (Warner) BASE005
Review copy supplied by Abels Music, Canberra: (02) 6295 1466
Reviewed by Tony Magee
Here is a great album for funky bars and nightclubs.
Sydney based singer and songwriter Doug Williams is absolutely groovin' in this excellent CD of funk, funk -rock, soul and groove.
If you like performers like Stevie Wonder, George Benson, Les McCann - those kinds of soulful Afro American singers - you will like Doug Williams.
Here, he presents a selection of mostly his own compositions, tightly arranged and performed with himself on lead vocals and a fabulous funky band with brass, congas and other cool instruments. Also present are the soul sisters providing great backing harmonies.
This album was actually recorded live at the basement. The sound is excellent. Punchy, dynamic and powerful. Not to heavy on the applause - just enough to remind you that a whole room full of people were grooving and moving to this excellent artist on the night.
Williams sings with conviction and ease. His voice can be tight and gripping, or sometimes so relaxed, soulful and mellifluous.
Many tracks are dance tracks, including Keep On Dancing, Loveland, Too Hot, Dance and Love Me Like You. Then there are some quieter mood tracks such as Love Is, Too Hot, As Long As I Know and Love. Yes - he seems to have a "thang" about love.
If you want to get your guests tapping and grooving, then I would highly recommend this one.
First published in Restaurant and Catering magazine, August 2003
No comments:
Post a Comment