Album Review: Soul Over The Race Vol. 2

Album Review: Soul Over The Race Vol. 2

Intro: Soul Over The Race Vol. 2 by various artists in Japan showcases the amazing talents of Kaori Sawada, Sayumi, Emi Hinouchi and fasun.

Sweet Soul Records is a record company based in Tokyo, Japan. The company releases music of several genres including soul, neo-soul, jazz, R&B, funk and hip hop. According to Sweet Soul Records, Soul Over The Race Vol. 2 is the "third cover album in the "SOUL OVER THE RACE" series recorded in Tokyo with all Japanese singers and musicians. January 25, 2012 marked the release date for this new volume of music.

Soul Over the Race Vol. 2 Original Covers & Singers

The music was inspired by several R&B/Soul greats including The Isley Brothers, The Jackson 5 and Chic. These classic soul pieces were performed by four talented artists - Kaori Sawada, Emi Hinouchi, the veteran performer, fasun and the newcomer to the airwaves, Sayumi. These singers were chosen as the best out of the many who auditioned for a chance to lend their voices to such a noteworthy project. Sweet Soul Records shared that Kaori recently released a debut album titled "Affectionately Yours" with lifesound Records and Emi Hinouchi performs with the Japanese hip hop group M-Flo.

Songs of Soul Over the Race Vol. 2

1. "I Believe in Miracles": Originally performed by the Jackson Sisters, "I Believe in Miracles" is a musical testimony to true love. Emi Hinouchi carries this song well while showcasing her vocals.
2. "Don't You Care": "Don't You Care" was first performed by Alice Clark. Kaori Sawada gives a rousing performance of this classic which asks a very important question in any relationship.
3. "I Can't Let Him Down": Sayumi slowed down this version of "I Can't Let Him Down". The original song sung by Love Unlimited had a more up-tempo beat. However, Sayumi's version is mellow and her voice blends well with the softer rhythm.
4. "I Wouldn't Change a Thing": The original song by Coke Escovedo had a funk styled flow. On this remake, Kaori Sawada gave a rousing rendition but with a jazzy essence. Although Kaori did not 'change a thing' in the lyrics, this singer put some good energy into this song.
5. "I Wanna Be Where You Are": It is not many who attempt to remake songs by any Motown legend. Definitely to take on the task of remaking a Jackson Five hit is quite a feat. Emi Hinouchi took the challenge to remake "I Wanna Be Where You Are" and met with approval.
6. "Funkin' for Jamaica": Tom Brown was definitely pumping some funk in "Funkin for Jamaica" although Jamaica is associated with reggae. The singer, fasun, gave a stellar performance on a slower rhythm while keeping the pace of the original track.
7. "Bad Weather": The title of the track should not in any way make the listener think that the song is not a great song. The performer, fasun, was able to bring across a similar vocal performance and energy as the original artist, Melissa Manchester.
8. "Changin'": "Changin" is the longest track on the album and was a Sharon Ridely original. Kaori Sawada was challenged to keep the lyrical message on pace with the original song and she met the challenge with her soothing voice.
9. "Work It Out": Performer, fasun, surely was able to 'work it out' musically with the remake of Breakwater's "Work It Out". In another softer and more mellow performance of a classic, fasun was able to bring strong emotion in combination with the amazing instrumental on this track.
10. "Thinking of You": Chic was a sensation during their time in music and there is no doubt that "Thinking of You" was a hit. In this Soul Over the Race Vol. 2 remix, Sayumi was able to evoke the same passion and soul/r&b appeal in a softer version of the song.
11. "Lucky Fellow": Emi Hinouchi was Sweet Soul Records' choice to give the rendition of Leroy Hutson's "Lucky Fellow." Emi rocked the track with her relaxing and easy-spirited voice in classic song.
12. "Harvest for the World": The Isley Brothers are another group that other singers seldom attempt to remake their songs because of the caliber of performance and the essential style the Isleys evoke. Sayumi was able to bring across "Harvest for the World" in her tone, style and range while keeping the flow of the original track.

 Sweet Soul Records should be recognized for harnessing the talented Japanese artists who are willing to give their voices to the R&B genre. Sayumi, fasun, Emi Hinouchi and Kaori Sawada all gave rousing performances on Soul Over the Race Vol. 2 as they accepted to challenge to perform classic R&B hits.