Saturday 26 February 2011

Let Freedom Reign

The first time I saw Chrisette Michele and heard her beautiful voice was on an episode of the sitcom Girlfriends in 2008. I remember thinking at the time what a beautiful voice and woman, her voice is so uique and she sings like someone who is much older than her years....the singer only turned 28 last December.

Her debut album 'I am' was released in 2007 and the second Epiphany in 2009 whose title track is so stunning, it's like an eye-opener in itself. When I first heard it, I remember thinking now if only I was armed with this single when I was young, I'm sure there would have been fewer heartaches. It seems that whatever Chrisette Michele is singing, she does it with such powerful feeling that every word of it means something and resonates with her audience.

Let Freedom Reign was released in the UK at the end of January and although I've had my copy since then, I couldn't tear myself away from it long enough to write a review....until now..nearly a month later. Like the other albums, this is a gem. I wouldn't say she's evolved or matured because this woman seems to have been born with musical wisdom. Her voice is raspy, jazzy, she writes songs that embrace emotional and personal strength. No weeping over a lost love for Ms Michele, thank you very much.

My favourite track is 'I'm a star' closely followed by 'Goodbye Game'. For me it has the effect Epiphany had when I first heard it and watched the video...it just hits a nerve and makes me want to belt out the words whether in the comfort of my car or my bedroom...preferably when I'm alone. Lines like 'rain starts pouring and it wont stop....let my self drown no I will not, smile on my pretty mug, I get right back on my horse and I giddy-up' are just priceless.

For those of us who are lovers of real soul and jazz music of the 50s, 60s even 70s....it feels like there are finally artists to celebrate - who are true musicians. Chrisette not only sings beautifully, she also writes music and plays the piano. She is the cutest breath of fresh air and I for one can't wait to see her live in concert. Until then I will content myself with listening to Let Freedom Reign on repeat....well maybe I'll mix it up with Epiphany and I am as well.


Let Freedom Reign

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