If further proof were needed that the neo-soul maestro, otherwise known as D'Angelo was definitely on the comeback trail, it was displayed last Monday (4 March) when he performed alongside Questlove, the drummer and leader of the hip hop group The Roots, at a special concert in New York's Brooklyn Bowl. The gig, which was billed as 'The Soulquarians: Brothers In Arm' show consisted of D'Angelo squarely in front of his keyboard accompanied soley by Questlove. The one hour set had the two musicians not only performing several songs from D'Angelo's soul, funk and rock drenched catalogue, but also a few cover versions including The S.O.S. Band's 'Tell Me If You Still Care' and Prince's 'New Position'.
Word has reached me that the concert was electrifying and greeted with wild enthusiasm from the appreciative crowd who witnessed this special happening. Such was the fever of the night that some people stated at times the atmosphere was almost bordering on religious. I believe such a positive experience should be reported and it bodes well for the somewhat overdue follow up to D'Angelo's magnificent 'Voodoo' album, which was released way back in 2001 and became my favourite record of that year.
Word has reached me that the concert was electrifying and greeted with wild enthusiasm from the appreciative crowd who witnessed this special happening. Such was the fever of the night that some people stated at times the atmosphere was almost bordering on religious. I believe such a positive experience should be reported and it bodes well for the somewhat overdue follow up to D'Angelo's magnificent 'Voodoo' album, which was released way back in 2001 and became my favourite record of that year.
It has been a long comeback trail for the funky soul man and it hasn't been without drama. His drug problems and legal struggles have been well documentated over the years, but a light was seen at the end of the tunnel when it was announced last year he would perform live and a new album would materialize. He delivered on the first part by giving concerts in Europe (including London at Brixton's Academy) before hitting the road back home in the States on a joint tour with the Queen of Hip Hop Soul herself, Mary J. Blige.
Now comes news that the release of D'Angelo's new album will finally see the light of the day sometime very soon. Questlove, who has been heavily involved in the record's production, has recently been telling everybody that it's finished and it really will be worth the wait. In fact, according to him the album should drop before the summer. Quite frankly, with the dire state the music industry is currently in, especially with what is being labelled as r&b, I'm biting at the bit for my man to deliver some worthwhile music for the soul.
This recent show at the Brooklyn Bowl has only heightened the buzz and anticipation awaiting the proper return of D'Angelo. To give you a little taster of the gig I've included a video clip of the main man performing the cut, 'Africa', which just happens to be my favourite track from 'Voodoo'. Take a peek and then quietly to yourself begin the countdown. I believe D'Angelo has just made a statement to the world that he is on his way back. Not too soon for me!
Now comes news that the release of D'Angelo's new album will finally see the light of the day sometime very soon. Questlove, who has been heavily involved in the record's production, has recently been telling everybody that it's finished and it really will be worth the wait. In fact, according to him the album should drop before the summer. Quite frankly, with the dire state the music industry is currently in, especially with what is being labelled as r&b, I'm biting at the bit for my man to deliver some worthwhile music for the soul.
This recent show at the Brooklyn Bowl has only heightened the buzz and anticipation awaiting the proper return of D'Angelo. To give you a little taster of the gig I've included a video clip of the main man performing the cut, 'Africa', which just happens to be my favourite track from 'Voodoo'. Take a peek and then quietly to yourself begin the countdown. I believe D'Angelo has just made a statement to the world that he is on his way back. Not too soon for me!
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