1) Laid Back 2) So Naturally 3) My Ray 4) They Tell Me 5) Wrong Again
6) Back 2 Me 7) Unrehearsed 8) Thinking Of You 9) A.W.O.L.
10) Breaking My Heart 11) Praise You 12) Thinking Of You (Remix)
Brilliant new UK talent, Chidi, presents us with an album for a very broad
spectrum of ears. Chidi is an extremely talented Lady comprising a talent that
has many classy inferences. I hear Jean Carn, Adriana Evans, the sass of
Sunshine Anderson and an edgier, grittier vocal aside that would appeal
to fans of Tina Turner! The album is very accessible, very soulful and
should be a very big seller if there's any justice.
Some tracks, as the CD develops really do edge into Tina Turner territory and
that's OK for me as I am a fan of the Lady. The CD kicks off with a real flourish,
plenty of soul and a tremendous groove. The spoken word, the punchy beats and
the cosmic synths speak much to me about the strength of this Lady. If
I werepushed, I would say that I would buy the album purely for this song,
and this song alone. I love this to pieces, and perfect for a warm, spring
day such as today. Songs like this can chase clouds away and blow cobwebs away.
Those who know me will be aware how many cobwebs cover me!
"So Naturally" throws out the album being a mere yet essential one tracker!
This is very, very classy indeed and reminds me of Adriana Evans meets
Oleta Adams! The sounds of Tony Toni Toné / Grass Roots Productions
ooze from the GORGEOUS "My Ray" - a track that would not be out of place on
Jody Watley's "Flower" album. Lovely and just right for the warmer weather.
The socially conscious "They Tell Me" is great - a song that takes on board the
state of the world and the comments made by the optimistic. I get a feeling
that there is, like me, no cynicism here but therein lies an optimist with
experience! We all make our own fortunes, and Chidi has begun work on a
solid career with this CD. Check the lovely and subtle funk of "Wrong Again",
complete with rhythm guitar and flute. This is sheer infectious Y2K quality soul!
Chidi is a great new talent, that's goes without saying. I heartily and
warmly recommend you acquaint yourself with her ASAP.
- Barry Towler
