Customer Reviews

Comfort Woman (Mcup)

5 star:		(59)
4 star:		(12)
3 star:		(4)
2 star:		(2)
1 star:		(2)

 

 

When you hear the term "independent women," chances are you'll think of Destiny's Child. But few in music are more deserving of the title than Meshell Ndegeocello, who artfully dodges trends and dances to the beat of her own groove. Since her debut "Plantation Lullabies," Ndegeocello has released a series of albums that specialize in deep-fried funk with probing lyrics. She continues that trend on her fifth (and possibly final for Maverick/Warner Brothers) effort: "Comfort Woman." It's not as politically charged as 2002's "Cookie: The Anthropological Mixtape," nor does it ascend to the heights of the stunning "Peace Beyond Passion," but that doesn't mean "Comfort Woman" should be ignored. On her newest joint, Meshell serves up the usual platter of underground soul, with a dash of reggae and a Prince-inspired melange of rock and funk. The disc gets off to a rather slow burn during the first half, with gems like "Love Song #2" and "Come Smoke My Herb," which works mainly to its funky bassline and laid back beat. But things really do pick up on the second half, thanks to the reggaefied "Fellowship," and the sensual slow jam "Love Song #3," which recalls "Sign O the Times"-era Prince. Thematically, "Comfort Woman" is the polar opposite of a previous disc: "Bitter." The latter album was a crushing effort that dwelled on the pain of a breakup, while "Woman" is more upbeat, positive in tone, and has songs that explore the possibility of true love. In an age where prefabricated pop and soul is all the rage, it's good to know that there are talented people like Meshell who make music about passion and WITH passion. As with any of her releases, "Comfort Woman" is the work of a rare and underrated talent.

Meshell NdegeOcello does what Jill Scott did with her first two records a few years back: gives us the best R&B record of the year two years in a row. If I could give it 6 stars, I would.

This new offering is a taught 10 tracks and there isn't a bad track in the set. If you've been rocking the pre-release tracks for a few weeks now, rest assured that the rest of the album maintains the vibe of "Andromeda & The Milky Way" (a drum-stuttering whine of a slow jam) and continues to take the chances associated with the reggae-infused "Love Song #1".

Meshell has always been an incredible ballad composer, and this album barely gets above the pace of a martini shake, so you'll likely find yourself sitting back in the cut listening to this one instead of dancing along with it. She caters to ALL of her strengths here: the intricate and more-than-alive bass lines; the emphatic lyrics that cajole, teach and bind; the sampled-and-manipulated ear candy out of nowhere; the utter and diabolical sensuality of tone and hugging arrangements. It's easily her most consistent album to date, and because of the unifying let's-chill theme and vibration informing her already frighteningly incredible abilities, makes this her most mature and intricate record to date...as well as her best. If "Love Song #1" or "Love Song #2" don't do it for you, call a doctor. You're not only dead, but un-loved.

I have been listening to Meshell Ndegeocello for a long time and I must say that there is no one who can do a love song like Meshell. I could listen to her sing about love all day. Don't get me wrong, I also love to her sing/speak about racism, sexism, homophobia, religious hipocracy, sense of self, etc. Anyone can write a song, but Meshell has a way of taking a love song to a whole new level. She can make you feel whatever she is feeling. "Love Song #1" is magic. I can't get enough of that one. Words can't express the beauty and the power this song has...one of my all time favorites from her.
"Andromeda and the Milky Way" is amazing, along with "Good Intentions", and "Thankful". The whole album is fantastic.
This album represents what we all need more of in our lives...love, inner peace, understanding, and more love.

Me'Shell NdegéOcello's 5th studio album "Comfort Woman" sort of reminds me of what Sade did with "Stronger Than Pride"; an album full of easy-flowing material, sort of continuing where "Bitter" left off. "Comfort Woman" welcomes the listeners back into her dreamy fantasy reverie.

The album is heavily influenced by reggae, as evident in songs like "Love Song #1" & "Fellowship", but what makes this album remarkable is it's irresistible & mesmeric ballads. "Andromeda & The Milky Way" is a hauntingly hypnotic song with a hook that is somewhat eerie (the way she sings "take me down to your river, I wanna get free with you"), but nevertheless, intriguing. Theres a sad vibe present in "Lilliquoi Moon", a song about death and the yearning of freedom: "death will come fast / I wanna be free / and closer to the sky". Towards the end of the song, the slow "Bitter"-esque guitar turns into a harder funk, probably signaling a change (Maybe?). "Thankful" is about being happy & re-prioritizing life. It's sort of a mix of Cookie's "Priorities 1-6" & "Earth". The only problem I have with the album is the more upbeat tracks: "Body" & "Good Intentions". "Good Intentions", lyrically isn't bad at all. But Because of the fast pace, it sort of disturbs the slow-paced flow of the album. "Body" seems more like the prequel of Cookie's "Trust" and doesn't really do anything for me. These two tracks aren't that bad, but they stick out like a sore thumb, and pale in quality compared to the other songs.

Even though this album only has 10 tracks (39:27), it is still reasonably fulfilling (but, still, it could've been longer). The CD is also "enhanced", so connect to the Internet and stick the CD in your computer and you'll get some bonus content (lyrics, links, photo galleries, etc.). "Thankfully", there are still artists like Me'Shell who still manage to put out good quality stuff.

Meshell is one of the few original artists who does not focus on making music for the masses and thank GOD that we get to be the benefiaries of her resolve to make music on her own terms. It's hard to believe that it was only yesterday (actually a decade ago) that Meshell started her musical journey with the Maverick release of the provocative "Plantation Lullabies". Although some may find fault in that Meshell is not a bigger star than she is, for once I think that the record company should be commended for providing a platform Meshell to do her thing and for them to support her when so many worthy artists (Raphael Saadiq comes to mind) are dropped by the majors because they don't sell X amount of records. It's a true shame as Raphael, like Meshell, deserves support. But back to Meshell...

Although always a critical darling of sorts, Meshell seems to have a small yet loyal audience who knows that she may be one music's best EVER. If the pain that led to the masterpiece titled "Bitter" did not convince all of her amazing talent, "Comfort Woman" is proof that she is in a league of her own. I keep hearing reviewer after reviewer looking for the next best thing (especially in the "neo-soul" genre - I hate the categorization but that's another story), why not focus on the best thing period?

"Comfort Woman" is a deeply sensual album that seems like the other side of the coin of "Bitter", but it's just as good. And let's talk about the base on this... WOW!!! Hearing this CD made me feel like I was floating in space yet being held tighly and lovingly while doing so. This release is a perfect example of what so many others in the "trance" (another term that I hate) genre try to accomplish but fail miserably with tired grooves and no soul.

Meshell has never sounded better as she brings her usual honey but expands on the melody and, without insulting either Sade or Meshell's originality, it is clear that her musical influences keep expanding to what is already an amazing menu that now includes Sade (listen to the chorus on Love Song # 1) and dub reggae. Listening to this release reminds me of the days (which don't occur too often if ever) when artists, like Prince, used to put out mind-blowing releases that were totally original (even genre defining) rather than mass marketed for TRL. This is one of those releases that should mark Meshell's career as it is flawless. Although I am glad that she's sold enough records to keep on recording, it would be nice for this release to catch major fire so that she feels the love back from those who get her.

This release earns its 5 stars and some change!!!! I am at a loss to describe how much I am enjoying listening to it over and over and over and over..... Beware "Comfort Woman" may become an addiction. Some have mentioned that the 39 minute length of this release is disappointing.... I for one think the opposite as I am sooooo sick of every bloated release full of filler and hiding that there is nothing or very little that is truly good. Each of every 39 minutes here is relevant and for once there is no need to press forward on any cuts.

Meshell Ndegeocello, or as I like to refer to her, the REAL catalyst of that misnomer called the "neo-soul movement", is that "genre's" one true VETERAN, as evidenced by this masterpiece called "Comfort Woman".

Although "Bitter" is still my favorite Meshell project, CW comes mighty close. Both "Bitter" & "Comfort Woman" are like 2 fluid pieces of sonic art that are engaging, yet unobtrusive to the listener.

"Good Intentions" and "Thankful" evoke the raw emotion that made "Bitter" classic. "Come Smoke My Herb" is a great metaphor of a title that oozes Meshell's innate sensuality - something that even a gay man like me can appreciate from a bisexual woman (or lesbian, or whatever she claims these days). Point is, THE WOMAN'S music is an aphrodisiac - see "Love Song #1", "2", & "3".

CW doesn't wield the intense political and social messages of its predecessors, "Cookie..." or "Plantation", which may be one explanation for its genius: Meshell's at her focused best when she's emoting, not didacting.

I suppose if I had to sum up in two words, what I thought of Meshell Ndegeocello's Comfort Woman, I would say 'acquired taste'. I, personally, have greatly enjoyed this CD, for both it's unique sound and beautiful vocals, but many may not be able to appreciate this album. I can honestly say that this is a one of a kind work of art. I've never heard anything quite like it. Meshell manages to succesfully mix a unique blend of electric guitar and spacey background melodies with her slow, serenading voice to cultivate a very original, very relaxing atmosphere.
Just about all of the songs on this CD are very slow moving, so if you're the impatient type, this probably isn't your cup of tea. However, if you enjoy truly original music, or are interested in broadening your horizons, I would definitely recommend it. Meshell does a superb job connecting with the listener; it's been said that this album is her most personal release yet, and I agree. Her voice seems to seep out through the speakers, through your skin and into some untapped part of your heart. The part that dreams of a quiet life, filled with love and tired of struggle. Music is different for everyone, but for me, that's what it feels like when I listen to 'Comfort Woman'. This is definitely a buy-worthy Cd, and so long as you keep an open mind, you might find yourself pleasantly surprised.

I just happened to be browsing the music store isles when I saw this CD. I love Meshell's music and I have all of her other CD's but I just didn't realize she had a new release until today. I bought it on the spot, not having heard anything about it. I immediately listened to it, and immediately loved it! I'm a huge fan of hers and had no apprehension about buying this CD without having heard the "buzz" about it. No regrets. There's some Sade influences, some Prince influences and some reggae influences but mostly,it's all about love. She's one of the most talented musicians of our generation. Totally original, and not like any of the garbage they play on the radio these days. I've been listening to it nonstop for the last 4 hours and I'm still loving it.Go buy it!!

This is one beautiful album! If Bitter is my favorite Me'shell N'Degeocello album, this has got to be a close second. Me'shell fuses reggae, trance, soul, rock and some ol' new ish on this album. And her voice sounds like smoke and honey! It's the perfect rainy-day-stay-in-bed-with-someone-you-love album (cd for you young heads). "Good Intentions" has got to be the tightest cut on here and "Love Song #1," "Thankful" and "Come Smoke my Herb" will help you get your love on or your meditate on or whateva. It's a great album! My only beef is it's too short.

I, too, like others have written, have all of Me'Shell's CDs and can say that seeing her in concert is an amazing experience! I listen to her CDs often and COMFORT WOMAN will most definitely be added to the mix. This album came along when I needed it--a meditation on love, happiness and realizing what is truly important in life. Although I love all the songs here, which include the lovely reggae-touched "Fellowship," the song "Thankful" is a sublime piece of musicality, featuring lyrics that are more than just simply good advice, but gospel, a creed in which to live by. Just like Me'Shell, I, too, "lose my faith sometimes," but I have learned that it is okay---it is part of life's process. However, we must regain that faith, press forward and realize that nothing lasts forever. This song certainly teaches that.

I am "thankful" for Me'Shell NdegeOcello. She has never disappointed me. Her art is to be savored and appreciated. I wil never forsake her or her wonderful contributions to the world of music! She is truly one of a kind!

Me'Shell, you are a blessing.