The Way I See It (published in Issue #124 on date: 2009-10-15)

Album: Memoirs of An Imperfect Angel Artist: Mariah Carey Here's why I love Mariah Carey's music: First and foremost, the role she plays in creating the music. She does not lay back and let other people write her songs for her. She writes 90% of her material and has from day one. There is a reason that not many people cover any of Mariah's songs. No one can do them justice the way she can. Yes there are other singers with range like hers and maybe they can even go as high in octaves as she can, but there really is no one JUST like her. From stepping on the scene when she was nearly 18 years old and to be still going this strong at nearly 40 says something. She has always played an active part in the creative process. The songs are truly HERS. While not possessing a 'perfect' discography (ahem, glitter? charmbracelet?) there's still no denying that Mariah's talent is immense and she's not going anywhere anytime soon. 'Memoirs' is like a throwback to really great, classic r&b records of back in the day. I can't really compare it to any of Mariah's other albums because it’s something different. Mariah's voice has gotten this almost smoky quality to it that surely can only come from age. This isn't a bad thing at all though. It gives the songs this extra sultry, alluring layer...I almost like it even more now than back when it was the ultra pristine Voice singing Vision of Love and Someday and Butterfly even. She has really come into her own on this new album. Do yourself a favor and listen to it from start to finish, as it’s meant to be. Mariah herself has said that this album is more "story-like" than any of her others-- she's also said that it is her most personal and honest album to date. Before listening to this, I scanned the track list names and was kind of skeptical...the actual song titles being kind of silly/cheesy at times. I looked at them and was almost expecting the worst, y'know like some obnoxious rap-collaboration that totally doesn't showcase Mariah's voice and songwriting. I was very pleasantly surprised when this didn't happen. So don't let the titles discourage you. If I had to just use key words to sum this release up, I would say this: Smooth, sultry, clever, original, catchy. The Way I See It, Nick may be doing Mariah some good;) My favorites: The Impossible, Angels Cry, Ribbon, HATE U, and Obsessed. Though I really don't have a track I dislike. It's been a long time since I've heard an album like that, from any artist. There is no filler here. Even the interludes/reprises belong here. They lead perfectly into the following tracks and make everything flow that much better. Album: Work Artist: Bryan Harwell On a local front, I was recently presented with a multi-talented musician named Bryan Harwell whose current album, “Work” showcases something that I think we can all relate to: the humdrum life or working in an underappreciated environment. The class blue-collar anecdotes made me laugh and think at the same time about the current state of our working world. I mean, it’s nice that this gentleman has allowed his experiences to become his muse and has capitalized on them by making humorous music stemming from personal experiences, but what about those who haven’ found their muse? Well if you happen to be one of those people who hasn’t found their own muse, I STRONGLY advise you to pick up a copy of this album, grab a beer, a few darts, and a headshot of that micro-managing boss of yours, and let the good times roll. Just the song list grabs your attention, ranging from “Serious Delirious”, to “I Can’t Seem To Get It Right”, to “I’m Wastin My Time”, Bryan sounds like the redemption in a world of grief. Finally, the final track “I Can Be A Happy Man”, gives the 9-5’er hope of a brighter future. I personally applaud Bryan on his advantageous attitude, ballsy risk taking, and vast musical talent! He produced, recorded, wrote, and performed all instruments and vocals on the album. I don’t know how much you know about putting in the work to create an album, but I have one out myself, and I’ll tell ya, it’s not an easy task even with a team helping you! The Way I See It, support your local musicians, and check out WWW.BRYANHARWELL.NET to get a copy of his album, “Work”. It’ll be well worth it! Got music that you want reviewed? Send me an email to dbdaniels@live.com and you could be featured in the next issue!