Sounding off. . - The Best In Recorded Music - 'Midnight Lounge' - 'Believe' - sound recording review

Ebony, March, 2003 by Lynn Norment

JODY WATLEY is back with a jamming new CD of dance music, Midnight Lounge (Shinbone Alley/Shanachie), that will inspire you to get up and move your body. As is her signature style, the platinum-selling artist lets loose with a set of vibrant techno funk that exudes warmth with the musicality of jazz, R&B and soul. On top of the silky grooves, Watley lays her "lyrical take on life and love." Most tunes are high-energy, feel-good jams like "Photographs" and "Whenever ..." But on "Clouds" she slows the groove while making a poignant statement about people who "hang around, cast shadows, trying to bring you down." Ditch the clouds and jam in the sunshine with Jody.

AARON NEVILLE devotes his angelic voice to spiritually uplifting tunes on his second recording of gospel music, Believe (Tell It/EMI Gospel). Among the songs he delivers with heartfelt emotion are the gospel classics "Oh Happy Day," "If I Had a Hammer" and "What A Friend We Have in Jesus." He also graces listeners with the glorious cover of two of his personal favorites, "Amazing Grace" and "Ave Maria." Added to the mix of gospel tunes is his rendition of "A Change Gonna Come," recorded by Sam Cooke in 1964. With soaring, heavenly vocals, Neville takes listeners on a spiritual journey. It's a good trip.