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Congratulations to our Top Three Winners~!
See the
winners here!
(See all reviews submitted, as well as reviews
continuing to come in
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Current
Standings of Contest (I'd suggest looking at this after voting).
Reviewer,
City/Country & Date submitted |
Review |
Rob Ripp
Long
Island, NY, USA
06-07-08
A |
March 23, 1978, The cover of Rolling
Stone magazine asks,
Donna Summer, Is there life after
Disco?
Fast forward
thirty years. May 20, 2008 the
release of Ms. Summer's first studio
album in nearly 17 years,
"Crayons", on
the Burgundy Records. The album is a
tour de force in world music, a
showcase for Ms. Summer's shimmering
multi-octave voice, barely
diminished with the passing of her
59th Birthday on December 31, 2007.
Donna Summer, one of the most
prolific singers/songwriters of the
last century and most widely known
around the world as the Queen of
Disco, has re-emerged with a album
that places her firmly at the center
of today's popular music while
recognizing her significance to the
history rock and roll and her
singluar contributions as one of the
founders of dance music. Yes, Donna
Summer can certainly claim there is
a
long life
after disco.
Ms. Summer's CD, co-written and
produced by some of today's
brightest young musicians, once
again defies the confines of the
Queen title that has stuck to Summer
despite being considered one of the
best and most versatile voices in
rock and roll.
"Crayons", is
and will be considered among Ms.
Summer's finest achievements along
with those recordings that pushed
boundaries, stereotypes and forged
the modern marriage of what was once
considered Soul or R&B music with
Rock and Roll:
"Once Upon a Time", "Bad Girls" and
"The Wanderer".
One can only consider
"Crayons" in
light of those long-ago efforts. Not
that this album is an attempt to
remake those ground breaking
records. It isn't. What is simply
does is let Ms. Summer loose in the
landscape of today's popular music
with results that are strikingly
similar to those earlier recordings,
they are stunning.
The selections on
"Crayons" let
Ms. Summer roam the landscapre of
pop/rock uninhibited, and this is
where she flourishes. From
numbers like the hip hop influenced,
"The Queen is Back" where she pokes
fun at her title with a rip roaring
teaser, "Guess whose back, Guess
whose back"; to the infectious
reggae duet of the title track,
"Crayons" with
Ziggy Marley, Summer never lets us
down or lets us forget that she is
about to turn a new corner with each
track.
Ms. Summer collaborates with the
likes of Toby Gad, Greg Kurstin,
Danielle Brisebois, Jonathan Rotem
and even Evan Bogart - the son of
her mentor and Casablanca Records
founder Neil Bogart - much to the
same effect of when she worked with
Giorgio Moroder, Pete Bellotte,
Harold Faltemeyer or her husband
Bruce Sudano, co-writer of
Bad Girls.
These kids know how to let Donna
shine, they know how to let the
music flow around her incredible
voice and interpretations. They
never take over or push her into the
background. And lest we forget that
Ms. Summer can rock with the best of
them, she teams up with Toby Gad on
the "Fame (The Game)", delivering
quick versus of electronica describing
the "botox, faux fox, lube job, boob
job" of celebrity culture followed
by a rock chorus complete with an
electric guitar overdrive - a
one-two knockout.
Not to let her core dance audience
down, Summer has recorded what could
be considered the best dance record
in the past decade and a half, "I'm
a Fire". Not since Madonna released
"Vogue" has there been a dance
record that will have such a lasting
impact on clubs and dance music for
years to come. The record soars
with clean long vocals against a
short beat with a strum of the
electic guitar. Donna's vocals
exude a sensuality and sultriness,
"Just like the sun reveals the
sky/Just like the torch becomes your
guide/ Just like the moon heats up
the night/Just like the stars burst
into sight/ I'm a Fire, I'm a Fire
and I'm burning so bright." Indeed
she is.
There are so many outstanding tracks
and genres represented here. It is
a testament to her capabilities and
to the fact that after all these
years, there are few who can touch
her. Sure many of today's artists
put out some great records, but
rarely are the women allowed to step
out of the lines. Could you imagine
any of the most accomplished of
today's female artists singing rock
and roll, country, hip hop or
brazillian at all; let alone on the
same record? Summer always colored
outside the lines and
"Crayons"
continues that tradition
long after
Rolling Stone asked her that
question about life after disco in
1978.
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Storm Taylor
KS, USA
06-06-08
B |
THE QUEEN IS BACK...AND IS SHE FIERCE!
The
proof is in the prowess. In an age where
the word 'icon' has become commonplace,
Donna Summer has returned to ride the
vanguard of a brave new world, breaking
new ground while stamping it with her
particular brand of mastery and mystery
of which only she is capable. "Crayons"
is a testament to Summer's songwriting
and her ability to sing anything and
everything while moving people to
respond with their deepest emotions.
This is one writer's ride into the
electrifying colors of "Crayons."
"The
Queen is Back"! From the first beat
dripping wow-factor, we are treated to a
familiar imminently danceable beat,
wickedly wry lyrics, lofty aspirations
of a queen come to reclaim her throne no
doubt about it -- all this in the scope
of a single song. This, the sound of an
empress crowned. This is the sound of
Donna Summer, who in 2008 has come into
her own with a vibrance bespeaking the
casual power of complete mastery of a
domain within which she remains
peerless. This brilliant song seems to
address the rhetorical question, 'who is
Donna Summer?' She answers with the
reflection, "I'm your friend / I'm your
lover / I'm your sister...your dear
fairy godmother."
What
shade of pink do you want
your
crayon to be? Color Donna
hot! Every line in this musical tour de
force shimmers in echo of timeless
resonance. Not one word is misplaced.
She conquers with all the colors of a
rainbow, mesmerizing me like a hapless
deer in the headlights with her words:
"You keep on saying that I make you feel
like you belong." This bridge of dialog
so aptly encapsulates the dichotomy
between star and celebre; a theme she
speaks to again subsequently. And still
the song continues to build, painting
with bold strokes the beauty and passion
of that indescribable voice piercing the
stillness with shockwaves, sweetness and
the ghost of a shy smile on her lips as
she winks at us in acknowledgement. Joy
thunders.
Like
hot wax "melting in the sunshine",
"Crayons"' title track glides
effortlessly across the spectrum of
style to land squarely on Reggae. Never
predicable, Donna has, rather than
simply play in paint, instead handed
fans her entire palette! The infectious
counterpoint beat is stunning in its
rich hue, as if she were standing
beneath an irridescent waterfall, her
rainbow blinding in its brilliance. From
the surety of sweeping strokes to the
faintest shades of glitter, Donna Summer
colors her masterpiece outside of all of
the lines.
Who
needs a track sequence when each gem
stands alone as a treasure? This album
both flows as a rainbow across the sky
and stands as a tightly-knit conceptual
piece, depending upon your perspective.
Summer's sky is vast, reaching this time
to Darfur with the gospel-laced "Bring
Down the Reign." Revisiting her faith on
a renewed journey while never once
coming across as preaching, the
replenished Summer calls out to angels
of light with a lush African tribal bent
in turn comfortable as it is comforting,
and a call to action; the song a
heartfelt prayer for all people. The
compassionate heart of Donna Summer
speaks loud and clear through native
drums. Her favorite colour is green; and
its peace envelops me here.
"Slide
Over Backwards" and meet Hattie Mae
Blanche DuBois, as Donna Summer returns
to her roots in this gritty Delta blues
groove. From the sounds of old slavery
spirituals to the rallying cries of the
Civil Rights Movement and the poor
South, Summer sings in this character as
she weaves a story of history and
connection intertwined like the roots of
one giant tree that shades us all. Her
voice spins the story line by line,
drawing us deeper into her mission as
deft nuances sway to the rythm. Color
her voice with smoke, as it rises to
fill you with her soul.
She
brings yet another color entirely to
"The Science of Love", as intriguing a
piece of sharp pop art as you will find.
Its stylized synthesized colors in tones
of neon, with the keyboard underscoring
its enchantment. And her tale of love
gone by is one everybody can relate
with. Rock guitar makes an indellible
impression here, her voice classic
Summer with a hook. This is "Grand
Illusion" taken to a whole new level.
With
"Its Only Love," Summer spins the story
forward from 1979 to the present,
coloring in sexy smooth waves of sound.
I always wondered what would happen if
the divine decadence of "Love to Love
You Baby", like my favorite exotic
chocolate, merged with and married her
singular "I Feel Love." Now I know.
"Take me down to the land of a thousand
dances, make me dream!" This song is
sheer liquid energy, spiraling in
free-flight; and it ends far too soon!
Another
facet of the diamond, "Fame (The Game)"
gives a piquant warning about the
tribulations associated with the
trappings of stardom as we delve even
deeper on this musical journey of
endless colours. Complex and lyrically
rich, Donna's Fame makes no bones about
it while leaving no stone unturned. All
the while, the beat catches and carries
us along on her rollercoaster ride to
superstardom with a dazzling front-row
seat, can you feel the breeze at 200
MPH? "Drivin' Down Brazil" is a soft
cruising tune with a dash of salsa and
then some. Whether you like your chili
hot, or your salsa cool, this song
invites you to come along for the ride.
I hope
you fastened your seatbelt, because "Be
Myself Again" reaches out across time
and space to introduce us to Donna in an
exquisite symphony of sound and light
while she seems to poignantly describe
the price of her fame. Her voice spikes
and sparkles as the rarest of jewels;
while her words will surely make you
cry. This song feels like the prelude to
"All Through The Night," and it left me
shaken, in tears, and longing for more.
"Sand
on My Feet" is a feel-good love song,
well told with the accolades of a woman
in love. Like a statue frozen in time
suddenly come to resounding life, Summer
explores another style with grace and
the gentle realness of first-hand
experience, the song allows the listener
to color as he or she wishes on a canvas
of unlimited possibilities.
"Mr.
Music" is a rollicking good time,
breezily current, Donna Summer is here
today and has kept up with the trends!
She's among friends as she sings back to
the DJ to "Keep me moving like you
promised!" Belly up to the bar quick
boys, have a cold one -- this Summer is
hotter than she's ever been. Wanna
dance? I think its Donna's glance to "On
the Radio" today; as savvy as ever!
"I'm A
Fire," showcases her signature voice
matured with deepening layers of
conceptual sparkle, leaving little
doubt, this is meant to be her red
crayon. Let her paint you with her
flames, this one is out of control. From
the first note to the very last, it is
pure raw sensuality, and she revels in
the heat. Blazing Summer!
"Stamp
Your Feet", an anthemic marching song,
reverberates with the magic and the
mystic, the strength and the star that
is Donna Summer. Can't you hear the
rafters ring as the crowd makes a
deafening roar over the words to her
chorus? The stadium is filled with
anticipation, and this is their march to
victory. Its the victory of Donna
Summer, too, ushering in a new age with
all the colours on her canvas
illuminated by the majesty of the voice
that has learned the power to "Be Myself
Again."
--Storm
Taylor
zulugothic@yahoo.com
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Cory Banta
Kearny, NJ
USA
06-05-08
C |
For seventeen long years the airwaves
were bleak and desolate without any
warmth or magic. They loomed like a vast
wasteland giving only brief glimpses of
what might be, just enough to keep hope
alive. With her new studio album,
Crayons, Donna Summer throws open the
window and with the opening vocal notes
of the first track and current single,
Stamp Your Feet, lets the golden notes
flow like warm rays of sunshine over the
frozen plain. Summer has come again!
As we finish stamping our feet, we begin
bobbing our heads as Mr.Music begins and
keeps the snappy,uptempo vibe flowing.
This track alone shows that an artist is
an artist, they grow better and shine no
matter what their age.
The reggae flavored title track defies
you to sing along and carries the true
message of the whole album.Let's
celebrate our diversity.There is a need
for every color in a box of crayons,
some complement each other some clash
but all are beautiful.
The saucy, The Queen is Back,will have
Donna's loyal fans dancing and would
make a great opening number for the
upcoming tour. How many triumphant
entrances can you predict to this toe
tapper? It pokes a little fun at Donna's
Queen of Disco mantle but it is the song
every true Donna fan has been waiting to
hear for all of those seventeen years.
Fame the Game rounds out the first part
of the album nicely as the sage Empress
imparts some wisdom about the fickleness
of fame. The powerful vocals and
thumping rhythm make me think of
supermodels walking the runway.(Video
Concept?)
The second half of the album mellows out
a bit starting with the beautifully
simple Sand on my Feet, a love song that
will alternately bring a smile to your
face and a tear to your eye depending on
your mood while your listening. As usual
Donna's voice is the amazing thing here
the versatility and richness of her
vocal are all anyone needs for a
fantastic aural experience.
The remainder of the album is world
music oriented, there is the breezy,
Driving Down Brazil, which produces
images of a cosmopolitan world traveler
in an exotic city living the high life.
Then there is the blues infused Slide
Over Backwards which requires and
deserves multiple listens to fully
appreciate the vocal theatrics. The
album ends with, Bring Down the Reign, a
song written for Darfur,beautifully
scored and sung to perfection. Thrown in
the middle of this are two pop/dance
songs, I am a Fire, which went to number
one, 'nuff said there and Science of
Love, which shows that a good pop song
knows no limits.Give a song to a great
singer and it will be a great song.
The only song I haven't talked about is,
Be Myself Again. This song is the one
true ballad on the record. The reason
for that is it's perfect. The spare,
haunting melody and achingly personal
vocal show us our diva at her most
vulnerable. It shows us how she tries to
always give us her best, even when she
wants to just forget it all and let the
guard down. The high price that life in
the public eye can extract from a tender
soul. If you're listening Donna, all we
want you to is sing, we love you just
the way you are. Open this box of
Crayons and enjoy the wealth of colors.
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Vincent Mastronardi
?
06-04-08
D |
Donna's many
colors create one strong album
Some might make the argument that early on,
Donna Summer was a producers muse and a voice
for Girgio Moroder (as well as
co-writer/co-producer Pete
Belotte) to use in order to release eclectic and
sometimes electronic based music. Prehaps that
was true in the very beginning but overtime, as
a co-writer and powerful vocalist, Donna
certainly put a very feminine and personal stamp
on all of her albums, starting most strikingly
with "Four Seasons Of Love" and continuing on to
the blockbuster "Bad Girls" and until their last
release as a team misunderstood (excluding "I'm
A Rainbow") but brilliant new wave effort "The
Wanderer".
Now, in 2008, Donna once again finds the right
balance between working with producers with
unique ideas and being her own singer-songwriter
on "Crayons". It is hard not to take notice of
the producers (and co-writers) here since more
often than not, they seem to make their
impression known on the tracks. The best at just
making strong pop songs with Donna, though, are
Greg Kurstin and Danielle Brisebois. "Stamp Your
Feet" is a positive upbeat pop track with good
hooks and is a perfect place for Donna's voice
to belt out. It's anthem like feel never feels
phony, either. She is really rooting for you!
Nor does Donna's strange "accent" on "Crayons"
with Ziggy Marley.
This blasting reggae pop track has a catchy
chorus and is very danceable.
Donna and Ziggy Marley make a memorable well
paced piece of music that blasts with positivity
and a strong message about working toward "one
love"
and letting the "crayons" melt into one
beautiful color. The Brazilian pop of "Drivin'
Down Brazil", with its fun story, is strong as
well. It has a nice feel of the Jobim songs she
references.
Not such a dream team is JR Rotem (with
co-writing help from Evan Borgrat....Yep, the
son of Neil Bograt, who used to be the head of
Donna's seventies label, Casablanca). "Mr.
Music" is a very simple upbeat pop song and does
have a memorable chorus that would suit TV
commercials...but it suffers from dull hip-hop
beats and is dragged down by it's simplicity and
silliness and in the moment product placement
("Got My Ipod/Shake My Body").
Donna doesn't quite rap on "The Queen Is Back',
but it's a strange boost track (that starts in
third person narration talking about "she" and
switches to first without explanation) that once
again is dragged down by dull big beats and
sound effects. They are not terrible songs but
feel like an attempt to be modern yet sound very
dated and childish. It's not like she is trying
to be Britney, even...it's more like trying to
be safe and Disney!
Sebastian Arocha Morton is the mastermind along
with Al Kasha as a songwriter behind "I'm A
Fire", which is Donna's sweet spot, comfort
zone, whatever. It's what you want and expect
from someone who stopped making albums but
continued to crank out strong club singles
(including remixes of pop ballads like the
Pokemon based "Power Of One"...or an upbeat
makeover on the Luther original of a similar
title, "Power Of Love"). A chanting, catchy
almost minimalist dance track that allows the
"queen" to be a force of nature. Here, we
believe in her over the top claim and she truly
is a fire.
It's worth looking for the import or the
exclusive edition (sold at another...the
initials are CC) to find the similar sounding
track "It's Only Love" (by the same team). It's
not as well structured as a song and sort of
just floats as a free form poem that just rants
yet it's a beautiful trip!
It's Donna that is probably the reason for the
differences in the tracks; the music is very
similar, so it is the songwriting and
performance that makes them very unique. Even
though "I'm A Fire" only takes up one track, you
can understand her reasoning for not making a
full album like this.
Toby Gad is a good contributor, too. "Fame (The
Game)" combines rock licks and stomping dance
beats for a song that describes the quest for
fame but unlike songs by young starlets, it's
not whining but wise and introspective (talking
about the movies that portrayed beauty queens
like Marylin).
"Science of Love" has a bit of a rock feel, too.
It's a very well paced pop track that really
understands good songwriting and Donna's vocals
are impressive here as she travels through
melody of the track. Tony Gad also produces to
the light pop ballad "Sand On My Feet". This
track flows and is romantic (the only song from
the set were get a love song form the First Lady
Of Love). It has some slightly awkward lyrics,
though.
Nathan DiGreise, a producer/co-writer from
Donna's recent past, brings us the most
controversial track. "Slide Over Backwards"
seems like it would be the basic club stomper
but in fact is a funky, rocky blues based
character driven piece where Donna tells a story
through the created "Hattie Mae Blanche Dubios".
It sounds laughable on the surface but much like
with "Crayons" (the title track) and her
adopting of a Jamaican (?) accent there, it
manages to work. What Donna lacks in
authenticity in the "character", she makes up
with sincerity. She seems to really get into it
and the funky, rollicking vocals of Donna (along
with sister Mary Gaines Bernard) have fun with
this track.
Also contributing one track is Lester Menedez
(producer/co-writer) with Wayne Hector. It's a
simple but hauntingly personal ballad titled "Be
Myself Again", which also centers around fame.
It's a letdown lyrically to her Donna just
bemoan fame and talk about how hard it is to be
herself again and not the character. While the
lyrics are a bit of a drag, its her voice and
how it shifts that sells the song.
Jamie Houston produces/co-writes (with co-writer
Fred Kron) the world beat driven gospel infused
"Bring Down the Reign". This song is not over
the top but a subtle song about the terrors in
Darfur that works with with drum beats, a
children's choir and Donna's combination of
strong vocals, spoken word and chanting. It's a
great powerful way to end a CD that has three
songs about Donna's issues (good and bad) with
being famous and shows a real social conscious.
While there are some questionable moments in
songs, every track works in its own way with
songs like "Stamp Your Feet", "I'm A Fire",
"Crayons" and "Science of Love" being dance pop
classics, "Slide Over Backwards" is a fun
experiment from the usual to even "The Queen Is
Back" as a passable attempt to be modern.
"Crayons", for an album that tries to be made up
of different styles by using different
producers, never sounds desperate. Donna works
with fine people but notice there aren't any
million dollar names here that could guarantee a
hit single. She clicks with every person in some
way (I would say Greg and Danielle the best).
The album altogether is a welcome return not
being a queen of the clubs but to making great
albums, which is something Donna did for many
years, with or without hit results. Hopefully
the public will pick up on "Crayons" and hear an
album by an artist that is often fun, sometimes
introspective and compassionate about the
outside world that has nothing to do with fame.
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Timothy Rice
?
06-03-08
E |
After 17 years,
she's back!!! I have been listening to the album
for the past week on repeat on my personal
iTunes. It arrived early, and it's a great thing
it did!! The album is wonderful mix of dance,
R&B, pop, with Latin, Jamaican and African
touches, as well as a feel of gospel/church
music.
Stamp Your Feet
starts the album, a great, positive, uplifting
track that makes you move. Mr. Music shows that
Summer is with current trends, still shaking it
at 59, and that she has an iPod. The track
featuring Ziggy Marley is called Crayons and is
a hot beat with an island twist. Summer even
tries on the accent but actually has success
unlike Mariah Carey who attempted the same on
her recent record E=MC2.
Fame (The Game)
talks of the pros and cons of Hollywood life,
with a cool vocal style. Highlights on the album
would have to be Sand On My Feet, a heartfelt
love song, and the rock-tinged Science Of Love.
Bring Down The Reign has an interesting tribal
chant inserted, which helps to finish off the
album. It's a great song, keeping in line with
the Queen theme of the album.
Overall, the
effort is an admirable one. Summer comes back
after 17 years with contemporary production
while remaining true to her roots. It's the
disco queen modified for the present. And it
works. Make sure to pick up your copy on May
20th in the States, and June 23rd in the UK.
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Matt Mendenhall of Phoenix, AZ
and Rocky Ford, Colorado
USA
06-01-08
F |
At the height of Donna
Summer's career, a lot of her music had a harder edge,
distinguishing her from her peers, especially in dance
music. She wasn't quite "street," but she was authentic
rather than canned. With each release she continually
blended elements of dance, rock, pop, jazz and R&B.
Throughout her catalog, there is a theme of fame and
fortune, struggle and strife and the hidden spiritual
dangers lurking in the world.
Bad Girls, Hot Stuff,
Who Do You Think You're Fooling, She Works Hard for the
Money, Stop Look Listen, Get Ethnic, Love is the Healer,
and now Crayons all exemplify Summer's artistic slant.
Ultimately Summer sings of salvation and overcoming
strife, but to get there she has to work through some
struggles and contradictions inherent in the human
experience.
Fame (The Game) is a
direct extension of Sunset People, both observing a cold
and flat world masquerading as "real." She doesn't deny
the seductive quality of this world, nor does she judge
it. The low rider character in Drivin' Down Brazil is
affectionately characterized with his "thousand single
dollar bills / in his low ride Bonneville." No Mercedes
for this urban king.
Almost as an escape
from the trials and tribulations of all the idolatry,
Summer still knows how to make people dance. It's Only
Love, available on an import version of Crayons, and I'm
A Fire are smooth classy dance songs with both
up-to-the-minute production and vintage Summer
songwriting and singing.
Be Myself Again is
perhaps the most personal and intimate take from
Summer's perspective; she opens up about how that
seductive and glossy world affected her directly. This
is wisdom from the woman who's been Running For Cover
her whole career.
Crayons, Sand on my
Feet, and Stamp Your Feet are each an excellent
representative ofits genre - pop with reggae, pop with
acoustic rock, and pop with dance. All taken together,
the longtime fan will notice the familiar themes and the
maturation of her take on them. New fans will experience
what an excellent and original artist Donna Summer is.
As a post-script, some
people are initially put off by the modern studio tricks
Crayons possesses (like the cruel fate that befell
Mistaken Identity). But remember, Summer has always on
the cutting edge of studio tricks - I Feel Love, Love to
Love You, The Wanderer, This Time I Know It's for Real,
Get Ethnic, Love is the Healer. Give Crayons a few
listens and give her room to use what is here and now in
popular music. The authentic Donna Summer is in there,
trust me.
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"T-Box"
Los Angeles, CA, USA
05-31-08
G |
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Color Us Tickled Pink!
A wide variety of genres greets the listener, longingly waiting
for over 17 years, for new material from the Queen of Disco.
The Queen has been sequestered away in the Heart of Dixieland,
madly conjuring a full palette worthy of its album moniker,
Crayons. The ballad of the album, "Be Myself Again," sums up
the concept of the album, which is not at once evident beyond
the multi-color and therefore multi-cultural influences of the
song styling. At long last, our Diva is allowed full creative
control, is not forced into any image or package, and can truly
be herself again. The songs, in their progression as presented
on the album, build to this point in the idealism, allowing us
to learn about the singer's personal journey, the trials,
tribulations, gains, losses, and costs, of the career that has
led her to our hearts (and dancing feet).
"Stamp Your Feet" is the lead single and while catchy and
instantly mesmerizing in its hook, could easily be the anthem
that describes the struggle of regaining that creative control.
It would also make a fantastic sports-theme, and it would not be
surprising if it were licensed as such. As well, it is an
inspiration to anyone or any group who has had to fight for
rights, fight for freedom, or face insurmountable odds and
hurdles in life. It should be a big hit at this year’s Pride
festivals, and just in time, which for sure, Sony Burgundy
considered in its timing of the release of the single in April
with enough lead-time to climb the charts and gain momentum by
June.
In fact, most of the tracks could be commercially licensed.
"Mr. Music" is almost gratuitous in its applicability to Apple's
iPod advertising, and would make said marketing more enjoyable,
at least; the intelligent and appropriate insertion of a new and
surprisingly updated version of "Belly Up To The Bar, Boys"
originally by Meredith Wilson and used in the 1960 film: The
Unsinkable Molly Brown (starring Debbie Reynolds) within the
track says that it's both classic and hip to a younger as well
as older generation. "Crayons" hits a pop-along reggae note
featuring Ziggy Marley and Donna in full Jamaican accent, and is
a highlight from the collection in terms of its originality and
creativity, as well as its suitability as a single (and perhaps
a license to Crayola). Despite its commerciality, it carries a
strong humanistic message of oneness and love, timed right for
modern globalism.
"The Queen Is Back" is a hip-hop, fun number, without the
heavy-handedness of some other hip-hop efforts. This one is an
obvious new theme song that should carry its subject through the
summer concert tour for the album, if not beyond. We learn
about the sheer lunacy of being a star on "Fame (The Game)."
Clever use of a vocoder is used on this track and again later on
the album. How true the lyrics are about Hollywood; not much
has changed in the past 30 years. It's clear that the artist is
singing about her own marriage and personal likes on "Sand On My
Feet." It's a catchy, lilting AC number (did I mention that it
could easily be in a Sandals commercial?). Then, we're swinging
farther south of the equator in "Drivin' Down Brazil." It's
actually not about Brazil the country, but Brazil the street,
which is in some American city. It's vivid in its imagery and
spot-on use of Latin rhythms and topics. If Pontiac still made
the Bonneville, it might be appropriate there, but let's hope
they don't resurrect the model line as a result! "I'm A Fire"
is the album's sole "traditional" dance track. It's disco-speed
tempo and soaring vocals in both English and Spanish hit
world-spanning fans squarely in the rhythm section and was the
promo single released to generate media buzz and viral
advertising. The album version pales compared to the remixes
available, most notable the Solitaire Club Remix widely
available on the EP issued by the label. There are plenty of
typical dance-anthem metaphors about heat and fire to keep
legacy fans interested and buying more.
A hidden persona emerges as Hattie Mae Blanche Dubois and a
scratchy, bluesy, deep-South tune evokes images of mosquitoes,
magnolias, and mint juleps on "Slide Over Backwards." We
haven't heard this version of Donna's voice since "Sometimes
Like Butterflies," which was cut from 1982's eponymous release.
Back to the vocoder on "Science Of Love." This one would be
great remixed and extended. It's got the same ironic styling
and great song writing that graced the 1977 album "Once Upon A
Time." And now that we understand all about Donna Summer, she
can "Be Myself Again" in a stripped-down, and pretty song, which
carries a heavy and eerie bass line that's just disquieting
enough to let us know that this has been no easy journey,
fraught with compromises, tribulations, and hard work, but now
is finally resolved, with plenty of talent left for the coming
years. The political power song, "Bring Down The Reign" rounds
out the dozen tracks. Donna's voice suits the subject matter
and African-styled instrumentals well, and is artistically
mimicked in a skillfully added viola track, having matured and
grown rich over the years like a fine Bordeaux, and fully
supporting her new claim to “Empress.” This song is clearly
from the heart.
Like any 12-pack of crayons, this Crayons leaves the kid inside
the listener wishing for a larger count box. No wonder most of
us begged our parents for the 64-pack when we were kids
ourselves. Right now, we’re all so giddy we might just run back
to the store for a larger edition!
Sincerely,
“T-Box” |
|
Michael
Campbell
Sydney,
Australia
05-25-08
H |
|
CRAYONS: A
review.
Much like
dining out, the success of an album is not only where it transports
us during the process, but where it leaves us at the end of the
journey. Are we satisfied? Enlightened? Have we dared to taste
new flavours?
It is very
simple to serve up the usual sample of fare but for a restauranteur
to amend the menu, leaving samples of the previous, but introducing
dishes consisting of new flavours and spice would be, under normal
circumstances, a great risk. Unless, of course, you have the
intuition to cater for what we all are: A multicultural society
with diverse tastes in both food and music. Crayons
stands as a testimony, not only to five time grammy award winner
Donna Summer's ability as a songwriter and performer, but also her
consistency in not being placed in a "box". She has never conformed
with the guidelines and stayed true to her spirit and beliefs.
There is
something on Crayons
menu for everyones' taste, of all ages: Reggae, Rock, Disco,
Ballads, Salsa. Each and every track has its own distinct flavour
and character. I, for one, have never enjoyed Reggae, but after
listening to the title track (a duet with Ziggy Marley) I am now
open-minded to listening and purchasing more. Yes, I will extend my
boundaries. If this effect carries over to the wider community, for
any track style on this album, then it's a huge success for the
industry and community as a whole. Not to mention the fact that Ms
Summer is donating the royalties from the closing track to assisting
the aid in Darfur (for which the African-themed song
Bring Down the Reign was
written.) What a breath of fresh air: to see someone using their
talent to constructively help others.
Sit back and
enjoy the many dishes this diner has on offer. After all, you are
in a five star restaurant and in the care of a well-respected, well-reknown
chef, serving up a selective menu that diners have long been waiting
for.
Bon Apetite. |
|
Cavin Borody
Winnipeg, Canada.
05-23-08
I |
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Donna Summer - Crayons
There is
no one on this planet that wanted to love this CD more than
I. I have been a huge fan since I first heard her coo “When
you’re layin so close to me” many eons ago. Since then I
have followed her career with a magnifying glass, buying
every release and focusing most of my work remixing on her
catalogue.
Seventeen years is a long wait and with that comes huge
expectations. Maybe too huge. Maybe unrealistic. And how
can one possibly live up to the remarkable catalogue of
classics she gifted the music world with between 1975 and
1980. So holding it up to the impossible standards her music
has set in the past, I reluctantly have to admit I’m a bit
disappointed in the overall package. I wanted the earth to
shake when I first listened to Crayons. It did for a few
moments (3 And a half to be exact) but I soon realized it
was not the album that I had waited for. That said, it is a
very good record. Sometimes brilliant. But
there are a few flaws that keep it from being what I feel it
could have.
Throughout the 70’s, Donna and Moroder were leaders...their
collaborations were fresh, original and fierce. Many remain
staples in the world of Dance Music and just as many have
been covered, copied and sampled...a testimony to just how
good they are.
But
during the eighties, Donna seemed to became more of a
follower. Where she defined her music in the 70’s, the 80’s
found the music defining her with each album more about
trying to sound current, trying to copy the sound of the day
rather than offer a fresh statement of who she is as an
artist.
That
same problem occurs a few times on Crayons, where the
attempt to create something current and radio friendly has
ended up coming across as generic – something anyone could
record. And for me, that is simply a waste of one of the
greatest voices pop music has ever heard.
Sure
there are no stinkers here like “Living In America” or “Bad
Reputation” but there are misfires. While my heart started
racing with the opening beats of “Stamp”, the CD really
didn’t regain my full interest until track 5. “Mr. Music”,
while catchy and radio friendly, could have been sung by
anyone. It seems to have been written more for a teen pop
star than "The Queen" . My feeling is that no one over 25
really gets that excited about Ipods, which makes me believe
this song is more to grab kiddy listeners than anything
else. She sounds great as always, but the song left me
empty. As did the title track. Even though it has a bouncy
toe tapping feel, it comes across too much as copy of
Rhianna. And the heavily affected Jamaican accent
makes me feel it is almost a parody of that genre.
“The
Queen Is Back” also lacks personality for me. The
references to the past are fun and witty, but the production
sounds dated and would have been more at place in the mid
90’s. Don’t get me wrong. These aren’t bad songs. They are
simply average...and with a singer that is anything BUT
average, they are disappointing.
“Science
Of Love” fares much better. Even if it does also share a
current trendy sound in the verses, when Donna rips into the
chorus, it is her own and there is no doubt the “queen is
back”.
“Driving
Down Brazil” and “Bring Down The Reign” both use world
influences to great effect. The arrangementsare smart, tight
and interesting. (Although I would have liked the choir part
in Reign to sound a bit less like the “Survivor” theme)
“Sand On
My Feet” would make a terrific radio single. Thesparse
instrumentation and gritty vocals are perfect for summer
radio. Unlike "Mr. Music" and "Crayons", this sounds
current without trying so hard to be.
And then
there are the brilliant moments on this collection
and they are no less than wonderful. “Stamp Your Feet” is
quickly simply one of the best singles to be released in
2008. Everything about it is stellar from the writing and
arrangement to the unforgettable chorus and perhaps one of
Donna’s best vocals in years. If this song is NOT a hit,
the music listening public are just plain stupid!
And
while “I’m A Fire” doesn’t really show us any new side of
the Diva, who cares? The beat pumps, the groove
is relentless and she hasn’t sounded sexier since she
convinced all of us to “come into her life” 32 years ago.
“Fame”
is a slice of pop heaven. Sure it borrows heavily from past
hits (Janet’s “if” comes to Mind) but once she digs into
the chorus, there’s no mistaking there is just one Donna
Summer and she means business! The production is
interesting, bright and full of great little touches. This
would be a wise follow up single to “Stamp”.
I also
fell in love with “Slide Over Backwards”. Strange, eerie but
wildly original, I kept grinning all of the way through my
first listen while thinking “Oh no She didn’t”!. Whereas
“Crayons” felt like it was copying an artist, this was more
a case of copying/revisiting a genre and man what a terrific
visit it is.
By far,
the best moments on “Crayons” (or on any artist’s album) are
when Donna creates something fresh and original...something
that shows us uniquely who she is. Tracks that say “I am and
there ain’t nobody like me”. She says this many times on
“Crayons” but there are just a few too many moments
that remind me think of someone else, to make this the
defining collection I’d hoped it would be. And whoever
decided that “It’s Only Love” should NOT be on the US
release should be fired. It is easily one of the 3 best
tracks on the CD, and it’s absence is purely criminal. The
track is beautifully produced and her vocals are stunning.
While
“Crayons” is an enjoyable listen, sometimes bordering on
excellent, I only hope that she follows this up with another
CD (1 or 2 years this time PLEASE!) where she shows more of
what it is that makes her The Queen...and a few less
attempts at simply looking for a hit.
I was
listening to the CD a few days ago at work, surrounded by
18-22 year old co-workers. While there were a few toes
tapping throughout, it was when Donnastarted singing the
CD’s best track that the sky opened. As Donna half
whispered “To Be Myself Again”,my co-worker looked at me and
said, “Who is THAT? My GOD what a voice!)
Indeed.
Cavin Borody |
|
Jimmie Lee Koetzle
Dallas, TX
USA
05-23-08
J |
Here's my own personal
review of the new Donna Summer cd, "Crayons".
If you've told yourself, "I'm
not buying a Donna Summer cd. Disco is dead! I don't like
disco!", then you might want to think again. This ain't no
disco cd. Yes, it can be considered a dance cd, but not
disco dancing (smile). If you've told yourself, "I only like
Donna Summer when she's doing disco music then you should go
to Itunes or Amazon and purchase the #1 club single, "I'm A
Fire". That's the closest thing to disco that you're gonna
get on "Crayons". You might also want to go to
Circuitcity.com and purchase the exclusive "Crayons" cd with
the bonus track "It's Only Love" on it. That is even closer
to disco or dance if that's what you're expecting form the
2008 Donna Summer. I've added the link at the end of this
post. "Crayons" is not your typical Donna Summer collection
of songs if you're stuck in the 1970's. It's 2008, people!!!
There's something for everybody in this box of crayons, so
let's see which track might suit you. I've categorized them
musically according to my own perespective:
1. Stamp Your Feet - This is an upbeat stadium
thumping song. At first, I didn't want to think Donna was
singing, "Make a big a** sound", but it looks like that's
what she might be singing. And I still say might because I'm
still not 100% sure. Billboard magazine seems to think
that's what she's saying. Oh well. It's not the end of my
world. I dont' curse, so thus my reaction. If you liked Gwen
Stefanie's "Holla Back Girl" then you might like this song
and its beat. Reviewers seem to compare "Stamp Your Feet" to
that song. It is a different song, but is comparable to "Holla
Back Girl". This is a song for those who prefer positive and
inspirational lyrics with an upbeat, feel good beat.
(pop/dance)
2. Mr. Music - Upon first listen of this track, I was
not liking it too much. That was because it sounds like a
very simplistic song with lots of lyrics that a pre-teen
girl or gay boy would find enjoyable. No substance to it.
That's at first listen. Once I put this song on my ears and
turned it up both on and off my ears, I began to fall in
love with this track. I was bound to because, it's true, I
love music!! This is a song about loving music and I do. No
substance needed. On the Donna Summer EPK, Donna mentioned
that she would see Ipod ads everywhere and she eventually
wanted to write a song about how those ads made her feel.
"Mr. Music" is the result of seeing so many Ipod
advertisements. It's a simple song about a simple subject:
loving music. If you love music, you will love letting
everybody know it by blasting this track. Another feel good
recording from Summer. Apple may do well to consider this
track in their tv/radio Ipod advertisements. (pop/dance)
3. Crayons - This could have easily been a Rihanna
song, but thank goodness it was not. Donna Summer proves she
can contribute to today's sound and share a simple yet
important message at the same time. You can find meaning
even in a simple word like crayons. "We're crayons melting
in the sunshine. I color your world and you color mine"
That's what life's all about, isn't it? Loving one another,
teaching one another, acknowledging our similarities and
differences and still co-existing together like a box full
of crayons that are the same yet different. This is one of
my favorite tracks on the cd. Probably because it sounds
like today's music more so than any other Donna Summer song
released by her since the year 2000. And, yes, she's
released some songs between the year 2000 and 2007 (smile).
I also love Ziggy Marley's guest appearance and his color
analogies with our humanity and our planet. The beat has a
great pop feel to it and it had better be release as a
single. Hehehe!!! (pop)
4. The Queen Is Back - Fans have already suggested
that Donna should debut on stage with this song as her first
song during a concert. Donna says she's poking fun at
herself with this song since the title of Queen of Disco has
lingered with her for this long. The vocals are awesome and
strong. The beat is mid tempo and quite the sound that an
r&b station would play. And that's saying a lot since Donna
is more often categorized as a pop artist than an r&b
artist. Hey, music should be judged by how it sounds and not
by the color of the artist's skin. Agreed? I mean, just
because an artist may be black, should they automatically be
categorized in the r&b category? Probably not. I've gotten
off of topic (smile). There are great background vocals on
this track also. If you're a true Donna fan, you will
appreciate the autobiographical lyrical content as well.
This might be the shortest track on the cd, but during its
playback, you might find yourself dancing in honor of the
Queen and her ability to poke fun at herself. No doubt, this
will be a hit in gay clubs and women will be referring to
themeselves as queens while performing in front of their
friends, family, loved ones, or their mirrors. As one of the
lines of the song says, "Look in the mirror and you wanna be
her", I'm sure many will be being her in one way or another.
I definitely can hear this song pounding at all kinds of
club. Gotta love the CNN type intro preluding the breaking
news that the queen is back! (smile). (pop/r&b/dance)
5. Fame (The Game) - I've seen some sites replace
this song with another one called "Run With It". Not sure
where that song went or if it will be a bonus somewhere, but
I don't think it was chosen to be on the cd. At any rate,
"Fame (The Game)" is an awesome add to this collection. If
you like rock music, this song rocks!! It can be a challenge
to understand what some of the lyrics are since Summer's
delivery is fast paced, but you can decipher if you have
headphones on and you listen carefully and stop dancing
(smile). For some, this reminds them of a David Bowie track.
Was it called "Fame" also? Hmmm. Bowie has been known for
hearing Donna's "I Feel Love" or was it "Hot Stuff" and
saying, "This is the sound (or voice) of the future!".
Ofcourse, this was back in the 70's. "Fame (The Game)" takes
you on the journey of what it's like when fame has
infiltrated your world. And Donna should know. I love the
"blah, blah, blah" line. Summer's vocals are, again, strong.
Some reviews have called them unrecognizeable. That's a good
thing since Donna Summer likes to approach a song as an
actress approaches her script. Remember 1980's song "The
Wanderer"? I had no clue that was Donna. I thought it was a
man. That's how good she is and she still is that good at 59
years old. Notice at the end of the song where the celebrity
is considered to look fantastic. The paparazzi line is also
a great add as well. Fame is indeed a game. I hope you play
it all summer long. On your sound system that is. (pop/rock)
6. Sand On My Feet - In general, I'm not a ballad
fan. Don't get me wrong, though, I do like some ballads. My
music library, however, consists of mostly dance and pop and
rock songs. Nevertheless, I do own some ballads and "Sand On
My Feet" is a very good love song. Any female artist today
could be heard singing it, but it is yet another track that
showcases Donna's vocal approach to a song. Her character? A
girl in love. I see her as being away from her lover and
writing him or her a love letter sharing her feelings. A
first love? Maybe. Just now recognizing that she's in love?
Possibly. Whatever the case, Summer delivers a great pop
ballad that anyone could relate to. Especially those who
love to have sand on their feet and love to think of their
sweetheart when the sand goes between their toes because it
feels good to them. (pop/easy)
7. Drivin' Down Brazil - Another great color from
Donna's cd box. For those who love another kind of dancing
besides club dancing, "Drivin' Down Brazil" offers a salsa
infuenced beat with a very catchy chorus. I found myself
singing this song and "Fame (The Game) yesterday while I was
out shopping. That means it's catchy (smile). Isn't it
amazing how people can have an experience and then write a
song about it? Listen to Summer's vocal delivery here. You
can tell she gets into whatever song scene she's in and
tries to win that Oscar. LOL. No matter what road you're
driving down, put your window down, let the wind blow in
your hair (if you have any), and blast this track. (pop/latin)
8. I'm A Fire - It would seem that this cd version
has some added vocals that otherwise were not available on
the previous released versions, but it's pretty much the
same. The solitaire club mix seems to be the most popular
remix, but this original roca sound version delivers great
as well. It is the most upbeat track (bpm) on "Crayons"
(with the exception of the bonus track) and, as always, the
vocals are awesome. When I think of hearing Donna's voice on
the radio among todays artists, I think "fresh" and
"incomparable". Donna wanted to write a song about her inner
passion and not losing it. Whether it's passion for sex or
music or other passions she may have, you can hear her
playfulness on "I'm A Fire". All kinds of influences going
on on this track both musically and vocally. Love the Craig
C remix which features Donna throwing in some great spanish
lyrics. She speaks more than english, you know (smile).
You'll have to buy that version elsewhere. (pop/latin/dance/world)
9. Slide Over Backwards - The audio previews for this
track left me wondering what this song is about. After
hearing the whole song, my take is that its'a about learning
from others. In this case, Donna's character named Hattie
Mae Blanche Dubois. I have no idea what that's about or if
Hattie is an acutal person Donna was inspired by. There's
even an image of a woman whose face you can't see inside the
cd jacket who is supposedly this character. Maybe it's Donna
manifesting her vocal characters onto her cd art. Whatever
the case may be, "Slide Over Backwards" offers listeners a
chance to get a blues, New Orleans sound out of the Queen of
Disco who is not limited to a disco box. If you've read some
of the reviews of "Crayons", you will find that some of the
critics love Donna when she's doing disco/dance, but if
she's not doing that, they don't like it so much. I guess
Simon Cowell would love her in that case (smile). Am I the
only one who gets bored with a singer doing the same thing
over and over? "Slive Over" is Donna Summer at her creative
best. Great message, great song. "Slide over backwards, let
me ride". Translation (from my view): Tell me about what
you've been through that might teach me in my life as I
experience my own life experiences. Who couldn't learn from
that? Eating po boys? Who hasn't? Okay, some of us haven't.
This song is for those who love music of all kinds and the
creative juices that an artist might squeeze out in their
work. If "Crayons" were a strictly ballad cd or even an all
blues effort, I think critics would love it. However, some
people in the music business have always had an issue with
not being able to define an artist. If you do all r&b, all
pop, all dance, or all rock, it's okay and they know where
to put you. If you do all genres and don't limit yourself to
just one, some music people in the business don't like it so
much. It's probably more about them and their inability to
place the aritst in one genre than it is about the singer
and their music. "Crayons" offers many genres from one
artist. If one track is released then place it in the
appropriate genre format on radio and award categories. It's
that simple. If you like blues and character driven lyrics,
"Slide Over Backwards" is your track. Nowadays, you can just
by the one track you like (smile). "Slide Over Backwards"
seems to make some listeners think of Tina Turner and/or
Macy Gray. Tina, I get. Macy, I don't get. (blues)
10. Science Of Love - This is pop/rock made easy.
Great track and the vocals are the bomb. I'm probably always
going to say that about Donna Summer. Blondie described
Donna's voice as a powerhouse. Enough said. This track is
radio ready in every way. Any song on the cd could be. The
question is would radio play it? I've only heard online
radio play Donna's latest singles. That just leaves a big
question mark in my head about one of music's greatest vocal
talents and radios treatment of her. (pop/rock)
11. Be Myself Again - Here is the second of three
ballads on "Crayons". Of them all, this is my favorite. "Be
Myself Again" seems to be Donna singing to her fans and
those in the music business. As I've said before, it's an
emotional song. Very little instruments and a lot of voice
and feeling. One fan posted being brought to tears. When
you've followed the career of someone like Donna Summer, I
can understand tears being brought to your eyes by her
personal, heartfelt lyrics. I believe this track to be the
anthem of many celebrities out in the world today who play
the fame game, but who have not been able to say how they
feel. Absolutely outstanding track. If you don't like Donna
Summer doing ballads, you might be won over with this one.
(easy/pop)
12. Bring Down The Reign - This is a prayer in song
for Darfur, Sudan. The more I hear it, the more I like it.
Despite it's intent, it is the track I like least on the cd.
That doesn't mean I don't like it. It just falls to #13 on
my best to worst list of "Crayons" tracks. Donna's cds
usually have some kind of song of this nature on them. It's
part of her, I think. If you know anything about Darfur,
this song may touch you more so than it does others. It's a
great addition to the cd and shows another side of Donna's
heart. Her character on this track: a fellow human who cares
for others. What has she done? I don't know. That's between
her and God. (spiritual/world)
13. It's Only Love (Circuit City Bonus Track) - This
is the track some think should have been on all cd relases
of "Crayons". It's pure Donna Summer. Well, the Donna Summer
some of you are used to hearing. It, like "I'm A Fire", is,
I believe, over 7 minutes long. So, you can get lost in your
love for music and Donna Summer for about 3 more extra
minutes than radio might allow you to (smile). The question
would be why it was not an absolute additon to "Crayons"? My
guess would be that Donna is known for songs like "It's Only
Love". She wanted to move forward a bit. She likes to do
that. You can personally put her in a disco box, but she
ain't gonna stay there just to make you happy! Okay!!!!!!?
(smile) (dance)
It's almost Monday, May 20th. Make sure you go buy your
"Crayons" this week. If not the whole box, atleast one of
the musical crayolas. If I had to suggest which ones to buy
separately from the box, I would suggest the following
since, for me, they stand out most:
- Stamp Your Feet
- Crayons
- The Queen Is Back
- Drivin' Down Brazil
- I'm A Fire
- Slide Over Backwards
- Science Of Love
- Be Myself Aain
- Fame (The Game)
- It's Only Love (if available)
- Bring Down The Reign
That's pretty much the entire cd, so you can go ahead and
get the entire cd or mp3 release on Itunes or Amazon.com.
Donna Summer is a living legend. If you don't own an entire
Donna cd collection of songs, this would be the time to
start and then slide over backwards and get her previously
released cds/mp3 releases. If you want suggestions on which
tracks or collections to buy to suit your tastes, feel free
to let me know. I would be happy to inform you (smile). God
bless.
Circuit City Exclusive (Bonus Track) Link
http://entertainment.circuitcity.com/Music/Album.aspx?p...ner=cc&catOid=-13219
"Crayons" the cd is dedicated to Donna Summer fans, per the
cd liner notes. And we have been waiting for years, have we
not? (smile) Thank you, Donna. Some have given up on you.
Others have not. God bless you.
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