Amazon.com Though Amos Lee's music is frequently described as a fusion of folk and soul, such an equation fails to reflect the singular artistry of this impressive debut. Like labelmate Norah Jones (who guests on two cuts), the Philadelphia singer-songwriter recognizes the power of simplicity, distilling an emotional essence that cuts across categories. The opening of his "Seen It All Before" echoes Bob Dylan's "Knockin' on Heaven's Door"; the stunning "Arms of a Woman" channels Otis Redding's "I've Got Dreams to Remember"; "Give It Up" cuts a classic Bill Withers groove; "Black River" has the sound of an age-old spiritual; and the closing "All My Friends" follows Van Morrison into the mystic. Throughout the song cycle, the bare-bones arrangements behind Lee's vocal flutter reinforce an organic unity that transcends genre. For all of the debts he owes to the music of the 1960s and '70s, the results sound timeless rather than retro. In his cautionary "Soul Suckers," Lee sings that "nothing is more powerful than beauty in a wicked world"--and proceeds to prove it. --Don McLeese
Customer Reviews:
Unbelievable TalentMay 24, 2008 M. momic(Hamilton, Ontario) I am not typically a person that enjoys jazz music or even close to it. I heard a 2 second clip of "Arms of a Woman" on a commercial for the album and I was intrigued enough to check it out. Well, I purchased the album and was blown away by the artist's vocals. I don't even know how to describe how much I like this album:) All music should be this good, and it is truly a shame that artists this good do not come around more often. Amos Lee has turned me into a true, lifelong fan. I am so glad that I discovered this artist and I am truly looking forward to more great stuff that he puts out.
Couldn't be betterApril 27, 2008 Tonya Duckworth(Ohio) This album is so good! Recommended through and through. If you're looking for something to chill out to and sing along to then look no further.
I love Amos Lee!December 27, 2007 Jeannette L. Johnson(Georgetown, SC USA) He is fantastic. I love his style; it's very "coffeehouse". You are making a great purchase with this cd.
shades of Nora JonesDecember 12, 2007 David T. Webster(Jacksonville, FL) I first heard the song "Colors" and decided to gamble and buy the CD. I enjoy it a lot. It has a mellow rock/pop beat and if you're a Nora Jones fan, you hear her influence. I hope you enjoy it aswell.
My new Favorite artistNovember 4, 2007 Cindy K(Michigan, USA) Amos Lee is such a unique talent. I have the second album also, but find this one addictive. I like every song and listen almost daily!
