ARCHIE LOVE
Exposed (Street Soul)
Reviewed by Eric Steiner

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I've been a big fan of old school soul, the kind rooted in the sounds of Memphis' Stax Records in the 50's and 60's. My points of reference for soul music are generally pegged to the work of Marvin Gaye, Booker T. and the MGs, Al Green or Sam & Dave, but I've lost track of soul since the Stax imprint imploded for many reasons in the 70's. On a recent visit to Memphis, I discovered what I'd like to call New Soul. Soul music that's got the same vibes and stories about love, but updated with new rhythms that take soul in new directions. In my mind, all classic soul is about love. Archie Love's new CD is New Soul with a twist: there's some funky and tasty original songs co-written with producer Angelo Earl and a new interpretation of Marvin Gaye's "Let's Get It On." Archie's been around the musical block as a vocalist and producer with fellow Memphians J. Blackfoot, Ricky B, and Slicc. He's also joined many of the musicians behind the legendary Stax label, like Issac Hayes and the late Rufus Thomas as part of the Memphis All-Star Rhythm and Blues Band at European music festivals in the 1990's. I'm glad Archie's in front of the mic on this CD and hope that he'll break out of Memphis with a CD that's true to his Memphis roots.

Track List:

My Joy * When U Go * I'll Be The Only One * Don't Take Me For Granted * Do You Love Me * Off My Mind * Only Girl * Let's Get It On

© 2002 - Eric Steiner