Customer Reviews

Floetic

5 star:		(119)
4 star:		(41)
3 star:		(4)
2 star:		(2)
1 star:		(2)

 

 

I have had an advance of this album for several months, and I think this is one of the most BRILLIANT debuts I have heard in a while. Floetry is the London-bred duo of Marsha Ambrosius "The Songstress" and Natalie Stewart "The Floacist" (the songwriters responsible for Michael Jackson's "Butterflies", the only hit that came from his "Invincible" album). Together they deliver a soulful fusion of Soul and Poetry. Floetry blends Marsha's soulful voice with Natalie's thought provoking words and the product is a success that deserves to be heard by anyone who truly appreciates good music. From the hip-hop intro of "Big Ben" to the sure fire dance floor hit "Mr Messed Up",and everything in between, Floetry brings much needed soul to the airwaves. The lead single/video "Floetic" is already a buzzclip on MTV and in constant rotation. Other highlights on the album are the poignant "Ms. Stress" and the soulful "Sunshine," "Say Yes," and "Hello". EVERYONE I have played this CD for has loved it. This is one of those albums where you will play it from start to finish and want to press repeat. Floetry is to 2002 what Jill Scott was to 2000. I can not recommend this CD enough. GET THIS CD, you won't be disappointed

(keep in mind that there were a lot of versions of the album "Floetic". One version didn't have the song "Possibilities", another version didnt have the song "Subliminal", and another didnt have the bonus tracks "Butterflies" & "Now You're Gone". So i've just included all the songs.)

I thank curiousity. Why? Without curiousty, i would've never had the strength to pick up this album in the store with all the over hyped [junk] the music industry attempts throwing at you these days. Floetry, Marsha Ambrosius (the songstress) & Natalie Stewart (the "floacist") makes an intelligent and beautiful debut album "Floetic". While it's obvious that Natalie isn't the best emcee with the accent; at best mediocre, Marsha's soulful voice blends everything with an incredible and seductive "flow" (Natalie can be described better as a "story teller" rather than emcee). The intro "Big Ben" it's self almost immediately grabs you with a sharp beat and meaningful lyrics. "Floetic", Floetry's anthem if you will, has a soul-funk beat with "we're here to conquer"-verses. "Ms. Stress" is a ballad talking about a relationship with your classic love conflict. I also think there's a hidden definition in the song (Ms. Stress - Mistress? Maybe?). "Sunshine" is a song describing fantasy from reality, a conflict imbrued with love. "Getting Late" is an obvious self explanatory song. The atmosphere has shifted from pain and hate to bliss & love to a point where it's overboard. It's a very sexy song; a song you should be listening to when your about to be laid."Fun" is an unbeat & funky song about a relationship where the two lovers are never together. Also, it also seems like the guy in the relationship is blaming the girl since the chorus preaches the line "this isn't my idea of fun". "Mr. Messed Up" is a good followup of "Fun", where the woman dumps her lover & realizes that she was changing herself as a person for a guy; Shifting from ignorant to filled with knowledge of the facts. "Say Yes" is yet another seductive love song where the woman is eager for sex from her lover. "Hello" can be a follow up of "say yes" since the song's verses seem to come from a "next day phone call". "Headache" is another song of love conflicts. It talks about a relationship where one doesn't listen to another. "Possibilities" is an uplifting & empowering song they speak in general, to not give up. I especially like the part where Natalie says "who was there that could've stopped me from decomposing & rotting? For putting a permanant solution to a temporary problem?"...strong words. "Hey You" is sort of the positive version of "Fun", where they describe the woman hoping and yearning to see her lover. "If I Was A Bird" is a song is about over coming pain after a serious relationship. "Opera" is an oddly addictive song about a guy that pleases Natalie so much, it made her hit high notes. "Subliminal" is a song about conscious perception...in a general state of mind. The song is sort of deals with peace & just random thoughts. "Butterflies" is an incredible song originally written for Michael Jackson, but Floetry felt that they should've gave it their signature "flow"...since they wrote it. It talks about a woman getting butterflies because she misses her lover. The last song "Now Your Gone" is originally by Sebastian Rogers. Well, it doesn't seem so at first, since he is literally overshadowed by Marsha's vocals. It's like the aftermath of a just-broken relationship.

These days, it seems that appearance seems the key to a succesful career, rather than quality. It's sad that Floetry is completely slept on and is only known by true music listeners. While the first look of the album cover won't grab you in instantly, a quick listen to a random song will. With Natalie's upbeat flowing rhymes & Marsha's incredibly beautiful voice, it's a mystery why they're still waiting at a bus stop.

[Beats 80/100]~*~ The rhythm of music
[Lyrics 85/100]~*~ Words of song
[Flow 90/100]~*~ Appeal of beats & music
[Originality 80/100]~*~ How divine is the song
[Overall 90/100 (4 stars)]~*~ Not average, but the album in general

I must say I was very impressed wit this album from the very talented Floetry - quite frankly I was blown away, even after I dismissed the first single "Floetic". Every track is brilliantly prepared, and the 2 bonus tracks (Butterflies demo and Now You're Gone) are excellent. Even if you are not a fan of Natalie's spoken flows (which are very good), Marsha's voice is enough to keep anyone listening, Here is my analysis on each song:

1. Big Ben - hypnotic intro, but you'd prefer to skip it after the first few listens
2. Floetic - i was NOT feeling this song. i do not like it at all. its sound is not very catching, especially for a 1st single
3. Ms. Stress - wonderful! nat and marsha work very well 2gether on this song.
4. Fun - upbeat, nice song. it doesnt knock you off ur feet but still a nice song
5. Sunshine - this song makes you think. very relaxing
6. Headache - also very good. not too mch to say about this record, but its good
7. Possibilities - kinda like the intro, you'd prefer 2 skip it over after the first few listens. not that its a bad song, yo'd just be in a hurry 2 hear the better songs after it. emotional song, inspiring
8. Say Yes - hypnotic! this should've been the 1st single. very sexy song and its a definite "cut jam"
9. Hello - not much 2 say about this song. its wonderful tho
10. Getting Late - another cut jam... its got a innocence to it. very pure, but still sexy
11. Hey You - everyone can relate to this song. its another floetry slow jam, and its wonderful
12. If I Was A Bird - very pretty. almost predictable lyrics, but the way marsha sings makes it seem all brand new
13. Opera - ok song... u have to be in the mood for it, but if u are then its grade a quality
14. Mr. Messed Up - faster song where marsha takes the lead. nice song
15. Butterflies (bonus track, demo version) - if u heard the micheal jackson version, you heard this. they sung the hook on mj's version and aside from a lil difference in the vocals. still good tho
16. Now You're Gone (bonus track) - one of the best songs on the album. THERE IS SO MUCH EMOTION IN THIS SONG! Its my personal favorite. i cried the first tyme I heard it

GO GET THIS ALBUM! ANYONE WHO KNOWS GOOOOOD MUSIC WILL APPRECIATE IT! ITS ONE OF MY PERSONAL FAVORITES OF 2003

Pure floetry in motion is how to describe this brilliant debut from Floacist and Songtress. The unique mixture of rap/poetry, soulful singing, and skillful production from the A Touch Of Jazz boys have produced my favourite album release of the year so far. The Floetic single alerted me to Floetry a while back with a fresh non-artificial sound, so when I saw the album in a Soho CD store a couple of weeks ago I took a chance and bought it. It hasn't been out of my player since.

All cuts are killers, but my standouts include 'Getting Late' 'Say Yes' 'Hey You', ultra sensual, sexy tracks that caress your feelings, and 'Mr. Messed Up' a potential single that will get you moving. Other favorites include 'Ms. Stressed' 'Sunshine' and 'Hello'.

Both Floacist and Songstress's vocals are top draw, easily eclipsing the majority of manufactured so called R&B artists out there (who are boring me). They prove that strong songs and vocals are sexier to me than the latest skimpy outfit. They are backed up superbly by A Touch Of Jazz, who are responsible for my other favorite artists like Jill Scott and Glenn Lewis (who I just found out Floetry also penned songs for).

Sweet, sensual, sexy, soul is what this album is all about, all done with a native London accent (I'm not biased honestly). Perfect music to chill out after a hard day!

The Philly females that make up Neo-Soul RnB/Rap group Floetry are very talented women, women who still have positive insights on political issues, love & the world. If you pop this into your cd player, you won't hear no drug dealing, no sexual encounters, and absolutely no bullets flying through the air. Just inspirational lyrics over smooth instrumentals that would be right at home in smokey underground jazz clubs that open their doors at midnight. As usual though, the true musicians in the industry today will be overlooked for artists that sell strictly on their look alone, and its a shame, for this album should not be slept on.

The ground-breaking special effects in the video for the album's first single "Floetic" was a very smart move. Without these, the video most likely would not even get noticed, because the women that make up Floetry actually keep their clothes on in the video, something rare in the world today. The album is very diverse, the topics range from many different issues, however songs are still enjoyable instead of feeling like your in school. Tracks like "Fun", "Sunshine", "Headache" & "Possibilites" are all hot as hell and will definetly keep the attention of fans of Erykah Badu or D'Angelo.

The album is also laced with gorgeous ballads such as "Say Yes", "Hey You" & "If I Was a Bird". Fans who don't understand the metaphors & poetic invisions imbedded in the Neo-Soul music will think these girls are insane and speaking some form of gibberish, but for those who can, they will find themselves agreeing with their opinions & spiritual offerings.

The debut album from these women is very impressive and I hope to hear a great deal more from them in the future. Its rare today in this industry to find artists that can keep it real, by speaking of topics that affect everyone's lives. No matter what age you are, listening to this album will benefit you. These soul sistas are doing something truly amazing and I can't wait for them to hit us hard again. Keep an eye on Floetry because they are doing their thing, while also advancing the Neo-Soul movement.

I thoroughly enjoyed the CD "Floetic" by Floetry. The CD is filled with songs that touch the deepest part of your soul. Floetry truely captures the essence of any and every emotion you have felt in their music.

The song "Floetic" allows you to groove to the ladies' voices as well as the terrific beat and melody. "Say Yes" exudes so much sensuality and desire that you immediately want to pull your significant other closer. I really loved the fact that the demo version of "Butterflies" was a bonus track. I have loved this song ever since Michael Jackson released it on his "Invincible" album, so it was a real treat to hear a different take on the song. I didn't think I could like the song any more than I already did, but hearing it from a woman's perspective was cool.

Stand-out tracks:
Floetic
Say Yes
Butterflies (Demo Version)
Now You're Gone

I would highly recommend this CD to a music lover who would like to hear something a little different, a little refreshing, and very interesting! You won't be disappointed!!!!

A group that has long paid their dues in the R&B/soul music industry, Great Britian's Floetry finally released their U.S. version of their Floetic album (a U.K. version of this album came out eight months earlier but without the bonus tracks or "Subliminal"; there was also an unreleased song on there that's not on this album). Having written for the likes of Bilal, Glenn Lewis, and even Michael Jackson, they now show us why they are in such a high demand by artists.

By now you've heard the title track, which introduces the world to Marsha "The Songstress" Ambrosius and Natalie "The Floacist" Stewart. All of the uptempo tracks (which are few and far in between) are great, especially "Opera" with its addictive instrumental.

Now, for the slow jam lovers, there is enough here to get the mood right many a night. "Say Yes" is pure baby-making music while "Now You're Gone", "Hey You", and "Getting Late" are smooth tracks to chill too.

Natalie and Marsha work well as a duo as they both compliment each other's styles. But this album ain't for everybody. If you're not feeling Marsha's unorthodox ad-libs or Natalie's prose styling, just admit it. Also, let me point out that Natalie "The Floacist" is a poetry/spoken-word artist. She is NOT a rapper, so if you're listening to her verses thinking that her flow is weak, check yo'self.

I never liked "Butterflies" and it doesn't matter if Floetry or Michael Jackson sings it, but everything else on this album is a winner. Let's hope Floetry makes another album.

AND GET THIS JOINT because these sistas are bad!

Sexy. Smooth. Seductive. Soul-stirring. Just a few words to describe Floetic. I bought this CD on the strength of one song. "Say Yes" is the ULTIMATE seductive jam...Ladies, play this for your honey and you will have the brother saying yes for sure! "Hello" is another sleek jam that is sure do to the trick nicely with straight-forward lyrics and a surreal and so-real chorus. ("can I let you know?")

Another track that blew me away was their "Butterflies" demo. This is the song they penned and gave to Michael for Invincible. It's simply gorgeous and laden with soulful vocals and a funky groove & the "gloved one" even uses their backing vox on his performance. "Hey You" is another sparkling track showcasing their mixture of spoken word and song. ....

Well, it's "Getting Late" (another mellow & melodic monsoon) and I am having too much "FUN" savoring this poetic journey. One thing's for sure. The London-based Floacist and Songstress are taking music to a new level with their combination of spoken word and silky vocals surrounded by sleek harmonies, pulsing percussion, and head-nodding grooves. Check out "Mr.Messed Up"..ooh la la! With the dreamy, yet funky "Headache" the Floacist is throwing down with an accented testimony to the emotional rollercoaster she's being put through, while the Songstress is blowin' with hurricane force.

Much success to you Natalie and Marsha. This is truly what an industry filled with commercialized carbon-copies needs. Originality. Realness. Depth. Go 'head girls! Peace. ...

Before I say anything about their debut CD, I just want to let everyone know that these 2 women are very talented. The "Songstress" co-wrote Michael Jackson's "Butterflies" and she also made writing contributions to Glenn Lewis' "World Outside My Window" CD. One song inparticular, "Simple Things", is one of the best written songs in the year 2002. After hearing the 1st single, "Floetic", I knew that I would purchase this CD on its release date. I just didn't know what to expect from the duo from London. Well let me be one of the first people to tell you that this CD is niiiiice!!! They get your attention from the start with the intro "Big Ben", which is a prelude to their first single, "Floetic". "Floetic" uses the same sample that Black Moon used for a remix to their classic "I Got Cha Opin" and was a perfect pick for the 1st single. From then on, you're blessed with soon to be Neo Soul classics. It sounds as if the "Floacist" and the "Songstress" have been a group for over 10 years, because they blend so well together. They never get in the way of each other as each artist gets to show their true talents. On some songs, the "Floacist" is allowed to rap and recite poetry as the "Songstress" sings the hook and bridge and on other songs, the "Songstress" is allowed to sing most of the song while the "Floacist" raps a verse or recites a verse of poetry. All of the production is handled by producers who started out with or have previously collaborated with A Touch of Jazz productions: Andre Harris, Vidal Davis, Ivan Barias, Keith Pelzer, and Darrin Henson. As they have previously done with Jill Scott, Musiq, and Glenn Lewis, they have created a Neo Soul classic with Floetry. It's hard to pick a place to begin but what caught my immediate attention were the combinations of tracks 3,4 & 5 and tracks 8 and 9. "Ms. Stress" is a classic in the making. The "Floacist" recites poetry to the Vidal Davis track and the "Songstress" blesses us with the hook, bridge, and ad libs towards the end of the track. This track will remind some Neo Soul fans of Jill Scott's "Love Rain". My favorite track on the CD, "Sunshine", is a self motivating track. It reminds people that sometimes there will be bad times and how we must persevere to get through them. This song has a powerful message and is worth the price of "Floetic" by itself. This is probably the Floacist's best work on this CD. "Getting Late" is the perfect song for someone who is in a realtionship that has been stalled. Meaning that neither party knows where the relationship is going and there are doubts by both parties on whether they should take the next step or not. The poetry blends in with the "Songstress" and doesn't mess the chemistry up at all. "Say Yes" is definitely the best slow song on this CD. They turn the temperature up a notch with this one but it is done very tastefully. Floetry doesn't use the current sexual overtones that are used by r&b artists over and over again. Other standout tracks are "Hello", "Hey You", "If I Was A Bird", "Mr. Messed Up", and the track that will literally have you sick, "Headache". There is absolutely no filler on this CD. You won't be able to fast forward a single song on "Floetic". A lot of people will definitely compare this CD to Jill Scott's debut CD. However, the last time I checked, that's not a bad CD to be compared to. As an added bonus, Floetry gives us the demo version of "Butterflies", which the "Songstress" sings very well I might add, and a track introducing Sebastian Rogers featuring Floetry entitled "Now You're Gone". This duo has a very bright future. You can't afford to miss this debut from Floetry. This will be a welcomed addition to your music collection. I would also recommend picking up Jazzyfatnastees' "The Tortoise and The Hare" and the Brown Sugar soundtrack, in addition to "Floetic".

James' Top 5 (Picking a Top 5 is difficult for this CD)

1) Sunshine
2) Say Yes
3) Floetic
4) Ms. Stress
5) Getting Late

This album OBLITERATES,all of the,commercialized,TRASH,that is cluttering the airways(from artist,like Beyonce,and others,of her ilk)and giving dudes like myself,ear-infections'with,tired,materialistic,sexual and blase' content!!!Sorry,if anyone is offended,by my opinions...But,the vast majority of todays' female artist are churning out,INSIPID material!!Some of these chicks'today,literially,wipe their BUTTS'with,a disc,then they put it out,as an album!!!Not,THESE two ingenious ladies'..."Sunshine"became an INSTANT favorite,of mine,the very first time that I played it!!!Usually,a song,has to "wear on me"before I really start,to like it..However,this song displays,some,REAL,feeling and emotion,that,you can almost TOUCH!!You,can tell,without a DOUBT,that,she wants' her"sunshine"BADLY!!The way she sounds like she's about to cry,while she sings this,really sends a chill up my spine!!"Now You're Gone"is one of the most beautiful heart-felt songs,I've EVER heard,with its' descriptive and"powerful"lyrics:"A bath so hot,it almost SCOLDS,and I let the warm,surround me." "I slide down,until ONLY my face shows.." {I've kept a VIVID picture in my mind of this"scene"ever since I first heard this song}More notable lines include:"Why did my mind and body believe,that you would never LEAVE them?" "Now the parts of me that ACHE,oh well,they "force"me to "DECIEVE" them!" "So come back,and RELIEVE them!" "And thoughts,I can't REPEAT,shock me with their BOLDNESS!" "My angel,I'd STOP breathing for you,IF,my life was possible,WITHOUT air!!" "I began to"punish"men for his perfection." "I play "Russian Roulette"and put this PHONE to my ear!!" "When you used to pin me down,the CLARITY,in your intent,but IF,your mind was somewhere ELSE,I can"BETTER"anything,you can"invent" "All is lost,in love not FAIR,but still,I see you there!" I LOVE,the lyrical"depth"of this song,not to mention how ther "trembling"voice puts added emphasis,to the lyrics!!Also,this gem,of a recording,is filled with PROFOUND,statements'that you won't find,on the VAST,majority,of todays'lackluster,musical"efforts"...Statements'such as:"It's BETTER,that it HURTS".That's Deep!! FOUR years'after first hearing"Sunshine",i'm STILL,impressed,by the hidden"twist"that was revealed,at the end of that song!!!Pure GENIUS!!This album,set the bar,for any disc,that I toss,into my radio!! Only,gifted,artist,such as"Lamya"and"Siloam Pool"can cause me,to give my "Floetic" disc a"break"...(for a MINUTE)'Cause,this is"Filet Mignon"admid todays'Salisbury steak offerings!