I bought the new CD by the Original 7ven, The band formerly known as
After viewing the DVD, listening to radio interviews and reading various material about the album release, I don’t think the name change was their idea.
Seems to be sour grapes on the parts of a barely five foot dude who favors the color purple in his wardrobe.
But it doesn’t matter.
The band takes the high road and thanks him for their start.
The group is still smoking hot whatever you call them.
The tight production of original members and mega super producers Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis who are without a doubt the most successful music production duo in contemporary history makes this album great.
Even with the always cool Morris Day still presenting his mega watt ego and love for the ladies, this is not a typical TIME album.
It’s been 21 years since their last project “Pandemonium” and the guys have not missed a step.
Morris Day, Jesse Johnson, Jimmy Jam, Terry Lewis, Garry "Jellybean" Johnson, Jerome Benton and Monte Moir unite to bring the funk rock and soul.
I can honestly say every member of the band is showcased.
From Monte’s keyboard magic on “Hey Yo” to Jesse’s guitar solo on “If I Was Your Man”…this album is not to be missed.
The only thing I wanted was a signature dance song…I’ll say a dance song with a name. There are plenty of dance cuts here..especially the song “ONE STEP” that will have booty’s shaking all over the place…but from the guys who brought dances for dude’s like me who can’t dance (“The Walk”…"The Bird”.. "Jerk Out" Hell even “The Oak Tree”)
I wanted one more cut so I could impress people with my non-dancing behind…those songs made me look like a specialist growing up!
Seriously..don’t let this album pass you buy.
They are one of the most exciting bands to see live and I can’t wait until I catch them in person again.
This collection features great music from beginning to end!
1. Strawberry Lake- Kicks off with an intro of the band by name. Super Funky.
2. Condensate- The title track and a very cool concept.
3. #Trendin- I don’t even use Twitter and I’m impressed! Way to stay current!
4. If I Was Yo Man- I mentioned the guitar solo earlier..but it’s also the drums that make this one of my favorites.
5. Role Play-Keeping it slick and sexy, a very grown up but truly sexy and not dirty song.
6. Sick-Jesse Johnson to the max.His guitar technique will have you rocking.
7. Lifestyle- A love song that’s nowhere near sappy. This one will have brother’s singing it to explain situations for years to come.
8. Faithful- Yet another standout song.
The musicality and the humor flow so naturally for this album from track to track.
9. Cadillac-Sexy Funky and right on time.
Turn this one up loud in your vehicle and just ride.
10. AYDKMN- A funky bluesy jam..I know what the name looks like..but you have to listen to get the meaning.
11. One Step- The band doing what it does best! Rocking out party anthem style. All the parts come together here including the call and response portions.
12. Toast To The Party Girl- This one gets better everytime I listen to it. The guitar work is infectious ,the song structure is a compliment to the way the band knows how to own a song. This joint just builds and builds and keeps you coming back for another listen. My father always says a good song takes you somewhere. You’ll find something new to groove to everytime you listen.
13. Hey Yo-Monte’s work on the keys to open this song makes it unforgettable. A very catchy song that find yourself singing.
14. Go Home To Yo Man-A very smooth funny song that ends this album on the perfect note.
In the end, you’ll do the math and realize that a superior group of musicians have turned out a great collection of songs no matter what you call them.
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