Sounds of a People
I am very familiar with the "Sounds of Blackness". The "Sounds" are unique in that they cannot be pigeonholed into a particular musical genre (gospel vs. secular). I was a member of this group a number of years ago and still feel a kinship. Gary Hines, the director has been associated with the "Sounds" since its inception at Macalester College. The focus of the "Sounds" was and has always been uplifting music from the Black experience, be it "Steal Away" to "Satin Doll" to "Optimistic". In a nutshell, the "Sounds" are about the best music from the Black experience. For want of a better word, it is a history lesson portrayed musically! If you're in love with the "Sounds", this is a must have for your collection. This music is certainly anointed by God. In times like these, we can all use a message of hope!
|
As Long As You Keep Your Head To The Sky... U Can Win!
Oh Boy....Sounds of Blackness had the grooves back in the day churning out gospel hit after gospel hit with the help of super producers Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis. Their biggest song, Optimistic, also one of the greatest songs ever recorded and one of my top five songs ever, is a masterpiece. With its positive vibe and sunny feeling you can enjoy this song anytime, anywhere, day or night, grumpy or happy. Optimistic is guaranteed to put a smile on your face. If it doesn't, you may need to check your pulse...seriously.
Their songs are so great and timeless. It's gospel music but it doesn't sound like gospel. It's hard to explain. But when you hear what they have to offer it's magical and amazing. The singing is beyond heavenly. Their best songs are OPTIMISTIC, I BELIEVE, EVERYTHING IS GONNA BE ALRIGHT, LOVE WILL NEVER CHANGE, CHANGE IS COMIN, SOUL HOLIDAYS.
If you are a music fan than this should be in your collection because it brings all their greatest songs together on one cd without skipping over anything. 5 stars.
|