Words like “legend” and “icon” just seem to fall flat like clichés when the subject is Smokey Robinson. Celebrating 50 years in music, this singer-songwriter and producer earned his title as King of Motown many years ago and his new CD serves to continue that lineage grandly. His voice remains indescribably beautiful, gentle and warming to the body from the inside out.
Robinson’s music almost defies description through words – his artistry evokes more a feeling, a dream, a misty memory. In writing the music for “Time Flies When You’re Having Fun,” he mixed a palette of sounds old and new that take listeners back to his early years but with a foot in today’s music scene by inviting guest artists like Joss Stone and India.Arie to sing along with him.
“Time Flies” starts out the album with Robinson’s signature astral vocals that could cause you to melt right on the spot. A soft brush on snare drum keeps the slow pace, as a female back-up chorus comes in softly like heavenly angels.
His treatment of the Norah Jones hit “Don’t Know Why” shows that this song could have been written for Robinson because he owns it in his vocal delivery. At the very end of this track the finesse of his voice is showcased in how he draws out the final note like that of a gently plucked guitar string vibrating out the last, trailing tone of the song, leaving you with an afterglow.
“Girlfriend” has a funky, maybe Latin flavor and definitely a double scoop of soul. The refrain is catchy lyrically and sung to a memorable melody: “You are my girlfriend/ you are my lady/ you are my woman/ you are my baby.”
“You’re the One for Me” features the venerable Joss Stone, and she and Robinson make the perfect pairing. With the two trading off on flirtatious vocals, this is a song made for people in love to slow dance to, cheek to cheek.
“One Time” brings back a major 1970s soul groove, and this decade gets another nod in the opening of “Please Don’t Take Your Love,” instantly recognizable by guest artist Carlos Santana’s signature guitar playing. Smokey’s smooth finish on the notes he sings goes down like a fine liqueur.
“Love Bath” is just flat-out sexy. “Let’s take a love bath, baby,” Robinson sings to a bewitching tune. For this Valentine’s Day, get this CD and play this track when it is just you and your love at home together. Get the hot water running in the tub, light a few candles, and take your baby by the hand for a one-way trip to sensual bliss in the bubbles.
“Satisfy You” could easily be a single released for radio play. The words are sweet and not meant in only a suggestive way when Robinson croons about satisfying your beloved in every possible way “so love can grow.”
Golden-throated India.Arie adds her Midas touch to “You’re Just My Life.” Talk about a knockout voice – Arie can almost make you feel intoxicated.
There is a delightful and special track at the end of this album not listed on its cover, but no spoiler alert here – you will have to get the CD and find out what it is.
Smokey Robinson plays the Emerald Queen Casino on Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14.
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