24K Magic

I am a Bruno Mars Fan. To me, Bruno Mars is a soulful, fun, and heartfelt reminder of an era of real singers and performers. Bruno is probably the type of guy who’ll take you on an excursion through the Andies and then serenade you on top of the highest peak. But all distractions and dream situations aside, 24K Magic is Mr. Mars’ follow-up album to Orthodox Jukebox, and although the new album is quintessential Bruno Mars, the undertones are different.

24K Magic is only 33 minutes long – a lot shorter than I was anticipating. The sound of this album is 80s and 90s R&B, but some songs have an even older influence. If you listen to “Perm” you’ll instantly have a flashback to James Brown. If you’re looking for something to throw into your playlist that’s a little cheeky and induces gyrations, you’ll want to throw it in the mix. If you want to slow it down, I’d listen to “Versace on the Floor.” I’m not going to lie, I am really hoping that Bruno chooses to sing it at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion show – it’s only appropriate? The song is also very 80s, which I love. The lead single is 24K Magic, but the best song on the whole album is “Finesse” for the simple fact that it exemplifies 80s R&B so well. I can see the video now –  an homage to New Edition – matching outfits, box fades, and choreography for the dance gods. Bruno call me if you need help with the creative direction, I got you.

Overall the album leaves a bit to be desired. I wanted more. Here’s to hoping there’s an additional release. Let me know your favorites!

 

“Too Late Now”

I’ve been an odd mood over the past couple of weeks and today I heard something that lifted my spirits a bit, which for now is just enough to make my day. The song with revitalizing mood powers is Anik Khan’s “Too Late Now.”

I actually heard the song during Beats 1’s Live From NYC Show, and it instantly felt like a tune. I think what did me in was the saxophone – I’m a sucker for the saxophone. Saxophones are groovy, they produce a sound that’s easy to sway and become deeply in tune with. It’s like your body hears the saxophone and instantly knows how to move – it’s intuitive.

In terms of the vocals, the first verse is rich, deep, almost jazzy? Combated with the hook and pre-hook the song is a journey for your ears.

Basically, this song makes me want to move and anything that makes me want to dance becomes a jam. Listen to the song below and join me as I stalk the sounds of Anik Khan.

A-L-X

So it’s been a while since I’ve blogged about anything in particular and I have to say that I’ve felt a little drained—really I’ve felt drained for months, but that is another story. On a slightly more uplifting thread of thought, I’m in love with a song called “Beautiful Criminal.” I know it’s an older song (released in 2014), but lets not dwell on what’s “old” and instead embrace what’s good regardless of time.

Beautiful Criminal is little sexy and a little needy. Maybe it has a slight RnB flair, but very much pop (IMO). Take listen, take a spin, take a swirl.

Also, take a listen to “Allure.” Similar sexy vibe, but it moves quicker.

I’ve included links to both—thank goodness for Soundcloud 🙂

Entertainment: Ebro & Shani talks about #NotoriousBig and the state of #Hiphop

Sometimes someone else can put to words what so many are thinking, but probably don’t say. I wasn’t fortunate to truly understand and embrace what the industry or hip-hop was like in the 90s, but whenever I imagine what it must have been like I see something totally different than what we have today.

STACKSANDKICKS LIFESTYLE ™

Ebro talks about the state of hiphop and what Biggie brought to the game and also how the internet has changed music the way it’s put out and received these days.

CC:Hot97 x SDS

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