Wednesday, September 30, 2009

The new Meshell Ndegeocello album

Next Tuesday, Meshell Ndegeocello’s latest studio album drops. It’s called “Devil’s Halo,” and it has a real alternative-rock feel.

For instance, click here and check out “Die Young” on my Vox blog. This is my favorite cut, based on first impressions.

But I miss the funkier flavors. I’ll have to spend some time with “Devil’s Halo” to see if it grows on me.

13 comments:

Kellybelle said...

I've been waiting for this! I really dug Bitter, then she kind went a different way. I'll check it out.

Max Reddick said...

The older, funkier stuff is what I like best. When she began experimenting, I started scratching my head. But I'll check this one out. Never know.

Shadow And Act said...

She's one of my faves. I'm seeing her live in concert next week Tuesday, when she'll perform tracks from her new album!

Anonymous said...

can't wait

HIM said...

I agree with UBM. I dug her early stuff, all the way to Cookie. From the sounds of this first single, I still miss her soulfulness.

suomynona said...

I am looking forward to next Tuesday. I like that she not only challenges herself, but continues to challenge her listeners. Don't get me wrong. I have guilty pleasures. I like artists that sound the same every time they come out with something new. But I also appreciate artists that are willing to continue to grow, and challenge their listeners to do the same with them.

The fact that she takes those risks -- and that she currently has the best band in the business -- is why I'll be flying out to San Francisco and Minneapolis next month to see her and that incredible band.

There will be no songs played from when she was 25 years old. She's a different woman now. You might hear a song or two from "Bitter," and a certain song that was a huge hit in 1986. Other than that, you can expect from her what Prince did in the 80s and early 90s. Play mostly new material and material not available yet. Songs that fit the band collective. Her 2nd bassist Mark Kelley could lead his own band. Her drummer has his own band. Her guitarist has performed with everyone.

They've come together to create a supergroup and those of you that are able to go to these shows without expectations will leave with their mind blown.

lincolnperry said...

What album would you compare it to?

Undercover Black Man said...

^ I don't have all her albums. But I feel safe in saying that "Devil's Halo" is more guitar-oriented than her past stuff. Lots of jangling electric guitars.

Anonymous said...

"The world has made me the man of my dreams" is a fantastic album. "Shirk", "Evolution" and "Lovely, Lovely" are among the great songs on the album give it a listen if you haven't.

John B. said...

Dave: Thanks for this. I'll have to pick it up. Plantation Lullabies & Peace Beyond Passion are two of my favorites albums ever! If there were any justice, Meshell would be as big as Beyoncé, but she's just not "cute" enough.

Undercover Black Man said...

Anon: You'll probably dig the new one.

Me, I prefer stronger hooks... melodies...

Undercover Black Man said...

John B.: Also, Meshell ain't making songs for the radio.

Anita said...

I have all of her music. She is a genuis and I love love love the chameleon in her. You never know what to expect; You just know that it is going to be fabulously delicious! Cant wait to see her tonight at Black Cat. Devil's Halo is really something - Just a music lover's delight.

Music producers take note of Devil's Halo - A lot of the music lends itself to movie soundtracks - The atmosphere they create is that intense! I have only listened to the entire cd 6 times since I got it Tuesday. :)

John B said:"If there were any justice, Meshell would be as big as Beyoncé, but she's just not "cute" enough"

Are you kidding me?!? She is the hottest woman I know. She can wait outside my door anyday!