Soul Express Album Review UNIFIED TRIBE: US IAM, 2006 Back And Forth – Don’t Wanna Be – Friendship Turned Failure – Happy Go Lucky – That Beat – Keep On Keepin’ On – Get The Funk – I’ll Do Anything – Love’s On My Mind – BackIn Love – If We Were Invaded My love affair with Unified Tribe began back in the hot summer of 2003. I have eagerly awaited a new album, and here it is! This is another essential purchase as far as I am concerned and I feel that the bar has definitely been raised, as the set is more consistent than "Mixed Messages". What I love about this group is that they are a musical family, and a close knit one too. It is obvious to me that they are professionals who love what they do, gel with who they work with in the band and have a strong sense of what makes a darn good record. They are true to their art and you can hear it in each and every song. They are having a whale of a time and so am I listening to it. Above all, they are a damn nice bunch of people too, all I have had contact with have been so lovely. What a combination! Just put this album in your player and let it go – you will not be disappointed in the least. Magic and the crew have surpassed themselves with tracks such as "Back And Forth", "Don’t Wanna Be" and "Friendship Turned Failure" – a similar theme to "Last Night". The uptempo numbers are also great fun and will get the old steering-wheel bongos going (should you have this on in the car!) "Happy Go Lucky" will be one of those addictive grooves that meanders around in your head; there a so few positive, joyful songs around like this that when they do pop up they are highly favourable. The song brings to mind summer days, the smell of the honeysuckle or mock orange and days at the beach. Bring it all on! "That Beat", "Get The Funk" and "Back In Love" are unashamed party grooves aimed at "getting your ass across the floor". That it should do in great measure. NOTHING, though, can drag me out of my wallflower position! I’m past trying now. The positivity flows further with the great "Keep On Keeping On"; the lyrics are very good and should help motivate those like me who need a good prod into action sometimes! My favourite tracks are all at the start of the set. "Back And Forth" is a real monster and I really cannot get enough of it. This is the type of groove that really works wonders for me. Oh yes, this is fantastic stuff indeed! The crashing thunder and muted trumpet usher in "Don’t Wanna Be" which reminds me of a choice Commissioned song. This really is a great song and will be coming with me on holiday! "Friendship Turned Failure" tells the sad tale of a love that should not have been. Many will relate to this, I am sure. Here, the Tribe have proved that they are a musical force to be reckoned with. This group should be exulted for the powerhouse they are; I cannot wait for future material especially if they keep on building up the strength of their material and their performance. Please do not let this album fall by the wayside. It is available through Soul Brother, Crazy Beat and CD Baby amongst others. An essential purchase! -Barry Towler Other Fresh CD Reviews Albums of the Month in 2006 Albums of the Month in 2005 Albums of the Month in 2004 Albums of the Month in 2003 Albums of the Month in 2002 Albums of the Month in 2001 Albums of the Month in 2000 Albums of the Month in 1999 Albums of the Month in 1998 Albums of the Month in 1997 |