Amel Larrieux
Very exciting--Amel Larrieux, the voice of Groove Theory, finally has a new solo album, Bravebird. It's a nice mellow sound--it's a non-neo-soul fusion of R&B, hip-hop and well, according to the Rasputin records reviewer--folk. I guess there's a melodic folk feel to some of the tracks. Checckked it out. I think it's going to be in my rotation for a while. I also picked up Wooden Leather, Nappy Roots (it's so-so), X-Pressions, the X-ecutioners (haven't had a chance to listen to it yet, but i'm sure it will be turntablist genius), and most happily I reacquired some old Everything but the Girl albums that I must have loaned out and never gotten back. Amplified Heart is a classic. Speaking of classics, I was tempted by the Cure b-sides and rarities set. Yes, I spent some time at Amoeba Records this weekend. That place is truly a monstrosity. First, it's located in the Haight. Gross--'nuff said. Second, it's so damn huge! It's an amazing place for CDs, especially used CDs. But for vinyl I realized I like a more intimate experience. There's something nice about being in a small hip-hop or house shop where you can talk to people about what they are listening to and chat with the staff. I'll have to keep looking for a good hip-hop/R&B shop here. I'm off to enjoy a mob evening of spaghetti and Sopranos!