Adding True ‘Wonder’ to the Classics of Stevie Wonder.
Underground legend DJ Spinna brings it back with a 3rd volume of Stevie Wonder classic hits. This 18-track album mixes in the minor numbers with the notable hits, making it an enjoyable and exciting listen. The album does not include the top 10 of Wonder’s hits, which makes this more a channel to discover hidden Stevie Wonder gems.
Betty Everett beautifully covers “Just A Little Piece Of You,” which is complemented by a strings harmony with a jazzy saxophone solo. “If She Breaks Your Heart,” covered by The Foreign Exchange, brings to the table more of the ‘90s Boys II Men slow ballad feel. “Pastime Paradise” is an irresistible feet mover with an up-beat tango covered by Sunlightsquare. Similar to “Pastime Paradise” is a salsa “Golden Lady,” a common favorite among Stevie Wonder fans. Reel People cover this song so elegantly, making it lovely Sunday morning café background music.
Tony Sherman’s cover of “As” really captures the sound of Stevie Wonder through the Sherman’s remarkably similar vocal style. This popular number is a highlight among the tracks shared on this album. Another song that embraces the Stevie Wonder vibe is “It’s My Pleasure” covered by Billy Preston, which has some great piano jams. “Makes My Water Boil,” covered by David Ruffin, has a funky vibe with catchy guitar riffs, and “Go Home (Nouveau Ame Version)” adds an electro touch again to a ‘90s ballad style, changing things up from the original track.
Although it’s quite subtle, DJ Spinna brings to the cover tracks just the right amount of beat and arrangement. It’s very collective as an album, never once losing the essence of Stevie Wonder from the beginning to the end, which makes it even more enjoyable. Stevie Wonder fans (practically all music listeners) will find this album to be something new; it brings new styles to Wonder’s original tracks, sheds light on tracks that were hidden gems and also introduces listeners to great new artists.
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