NEW MUSIC EAR : Album Reviews

"FOR YOU"   1978 FOR YOU - The very first track on any Prince album is a little over a minute long and showcases the astounding vocal range of the then teenage artist.  Harmonising with himself, using his voice as melodies and adding a Gospel and church choir like style.  Brave for a first track to bare himself like this but then Prince was to be no ordinary performer! IN LOVE - A Pop Soul track that has very slight hints of Funk.  It is essentially a mid tempo ballad.  Showing the early talent this guy had for hearing unusual sounds that merge together brilliantly.  All tracks here composed, performed, arranged and produced by this teenager on his debut, that in itself is remarkable. SOFT AND WET - The first introduction to the now famous (or infamous to some) sexual innuendo laden tracks that he composed during his reign.  A Disco Funk track with a little Soul, was released as a single on his 20th birthday as the first from this album.      

     "PURPLE RAIN"  "1984" LET'S GO CRAZY - The abum opens with the famous church organ sounding out with a little Prince-like "sermon" before firing up a blistering funky Rock anthem that is one of my favourite songs by the man.  The single was the 2nd single release from the album and along with its B-side "Take Me With U" hit number 7 in the UK chart.  If previous releases wan't enough proof this track shows Prince the brilliant guitarist.   TAKE ME WITH U - As previously stated this was a double A-side of "Let's Go Crazy" which radio sometimes played as an alternative.  Sung as a duet with Apollonia Kotero (the female lead in the "Purple Rain" movie) with co-vocals by Jill Jones and Lisa Coleman.  A melodic easy going romantic track with strings bringing down the pace a bit after the opening track. THE BEAUTIFUL ONES - One of Prince's most loved sexy, lustful, emotionally charged romantic ballads.  Altho