image note       view larger image

Way I See It (7 X 7-inch box set edition with extra bonus track)

$32.99 ... 7-inch 7 X 7"

Raphael Saadiq takes throwback soul and r&b to the next level on The Way I See It -- rolling in a groove that recalls 60s Motown, grittier group soul, the sophisticated strings of the 70s scene, and subtle contemporary touches that keep it in the here and now! An awareness of the past and the ability to replicate the sounds would be useless without great songs and vocals -- and Raphael brings it in both realms -- his voice has never sounded better and there's a catchiness to each of these tunes that betters the best pop soul of the past couple years. If that's not enough, Raphael handles most of the instrumentation himself, too! Niceness from one of the pivotal singers/songwriters/producers of the past couple decades. Titles include "Sure Hope You Mean It", "100 Yard Dash", "Keep Marchin", "Big Easy", "Just One Kiss" featuring a fine background turn by Joss Stone, "Love That Girl", "Calling", "Staying In Love", "Never Give You Up" featuring Stevie Wonder's inimitable harmonica & CJ Hilton on vocals, "Sometimes"m and the bonus tracks "Oh Girl" featuring Jay Z and "Seven". (The entire Way I See It LP -- issued as a great little 7 X 7-inch box set -- with the extra bonus track "Seven". Please note: The running order may differ from the CD & LP.)  © 1996-2009, Dusty Groove America, Inc.