GREG BLACKMAN -GB4 – ALBUM REVIEW

 

The U.K.’s green-eyed soul singer, Greg Blackman, may not be a household name yet but that’s about to change. He has just released his new album, GB4 (Ramrock Records), and soon the world will come a running. Based out of London, Blackman is known for his unforgettable voice, powerful songwriting and his sensual fervor. Besides his own releases he has collaborated with a multitude of other artists and producers. His sultry voice is in major demand. Just read about his work with Andy Stern in the Eclectic Music Lover post from this past June.

Blackman’s music has been extensively played on BBC radio, featured on numerous websites and reviewed by a considerable number of publications. His peers have heaped Blackman much praise. Rag N’ Bone Man said “This dude is sick. Get to know!” and Craig Charles noted “fast becoming one of the best in the business“. His reputation among musicians and producers is clearly evident but with this new record he’s about to blow up.

GB4 is a major accomplishment that showcases Blackman‘s voice to the max. His dynamic R&B/soul vocal inflections are lusty and intense. His scorching voice coupled with his remarkable songwriting has turned GB4 into a monumental achievement. Commenting on the record, Blackman stated “GB4 is something rare and special for me, a love letter to music that got me through hard times. This is the cream of the crop from the last ten years of writing and collaborating. My most sincere, most heartfelt and most truthful songs. I’ve been flexing my wings and trying different things these last few years. Now it’s time to bring it on home.”

GB4 opens with the R&B tinged “Stony Ground”. Right off the bat Blackman‘s lays down some tremendously spicy vocals. His voice is smooth and silky. The song picks up tempo and boasts harmonious keys and a spirited guitar solo. “So Cruel” follows. The funky guitar and polished back beat compliment his velvety vocals. Blackman creates an impressively sleek groove that easily has the listeners snapping fingers and soft shuffling their feet. The arena friendly “Rise Up” keeps the energy flowing. The fuzzed guitar and subtle horns are standouts. Again Blackman‘s voice carries the day. In “Rise Up”, Blackman passionately pushes for the world to be better and just stand up and change.

“Never Trust Another Man Again” is a soulful delight. Blackman‘s timbre is spectacular and the heat in his voice is pure ecstasy. The song is enhanced by an appearance by Duncan Mackay and captivating backing vocals. “Never Trust Another Man Again” showcases the brilliance of Blackman‘s writing. “World Of Scorn” with its bouncy beat and honky-tonk piano and the extraordinary ballad “Scars” come next.

After “Lessons In Love”, we are treated to the reggae infused “Beauteous Blessings”. It’s a perfect change of pace and highlights Blackman‘s vocal diversity. It transports you directly to Montego Bay with the cocktail of your choice. The song is that soothing. Blackman ups the beat with the toe tapping, “Home” and then hits us with a marvelous cover of “Stormy”. Stripped down and bare with a lone guitar and Blackman‘s impassioned vocals. His rendition is definitely a stand out.

“If You Can Not Try” has a cool jazzy disco beat that fits Blackman‘s voice ideally. if you aren’t dancing on this number something is wrong. The drift is so gently fluid. The funky “I Can Tell” and the quirky “Land of the Dead” round out the bottom half of GB4. Blackman finishes up with a different production of “Home”

GB4 is truly something special. It reveals the musical growth of an emerging star. Greg Blackman‘s music is potent and commanding. His voice is a gift and a gift he so gladly shares with all.  Now it’s up to all to listen and bask in Blackman‘s glorious songs.

GB4 is Greg Blackman‘s newest album

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