Customer Reviews

I Learned the Hard Way (Amazon MP3 Exclusive Version)

5 star:		(6)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

You know how artists try to relive the 60s soul glory days by releasing covers that sound just like the classics? Well, Sharon Jones relives it by actually trying to compete with the classics. That's right, they use instruments from the time period, they have the same sound, and they have an ultra-soulful singer, but Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings is all original material. That's right, they have the sound of the Philly & Motown sound circa 1969, and they wrote all the music themselves in 2010. Now this, you gotta hear.

Note: This is the first time I've ever heard of this group or their work, but I do know this is their fourth album.

Highlights Include:
I Learned The Hard Way
Better Things
Money
The Reason

Unlike many other bands that try to achieve a retro sound, Sharon & the Kings have a real passion for the music, and instead of being chained by the tradition of the sound, they get in the mindset and get in line with the tradition, because they would have done it whether it was tradition or brand new. In fact, the most original thing about this album & group is the fact that it is currently 2010. Still, it's that passion that makes the album & the group so charming. It's that passion that's given them they're loyal followers, and it's that passion that would make them a hit even with they weren't from the 21st Century.

Overall, for anybody that likes this style of music, likes to go retro every once in a while, or just wants an original group, look no further than Sharon Jones and the Dap-Kings. In the world of retro 60s soul they not only act out the part well, but they're not acting.

Real Score: 4.5

I can't say it any better than Entertainment Weekly magazine did so here's a copy of their review:

If you've ever seen a show by the funky phenomenon known as Miss [horn blast] Sharon [two horn blasts] Jones, you know she's a force of nature. That energy is tough to capture in the studio, but I Learned the Hard Way, her fourth album with the Dap-Kings is pure joy, even when heartbreak sends her voice digging deep. This isn't just old-school; IT IS SCHOOL.

OK??? Nuff Said.

Can't tell you how refreshing it is to hear new music that is clean and "autotune" free. Thank you Daptone Records for keeping it real! Looking forward to seeing them live in Atlanta.

This band continues to surprise. The groove prevails! That retro sound but today's music. No disrespect to Sharon Jones, she is the icing on the cake but Oh what a tasty cake.

Wow Wow Wow Wow Wow Wow. Funky fresh old school. If you don't like this, you have no soul. If you love this, follow it up with John Legend and the Roots' "Wake Up!".

Just watched Sharon on a recent episode of Live From Daryl's House (lfdh.com) - hadn't heard her before & came here to find the music. Really enjoy the band and her energy. Great sound!!