16 of 16 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
Hyman + Mtume = Classic, July 13, 2002
This review is from: You Know How to Love Me (Audio CD)
Phyllis Hyman could sing anything and make it worthwhile. Here, she teamed up with James Mtume and Reggie Lucas to create an R&B record that would boost her profile. Mtume and Lucas had been a part of Miles Davis' explosive electric ensembles of the '70s before they started writing and producing hits for Roberta Flack, Stephanie Mills, Ms. Hyman, and themselves in their band Mtume.
Phyllis didn't achieve the crossover success that was expected with this release in 1979, but all the ingredients for success are here. The title track and "Under Your Spell" are just as infectious as similar hits Mtume and Lucas crafted for Stephanie Mills, and "Some Way" is one of the best quiet storm tracks Phyllis recorded. A couple of songs on the second half of the album sound like rote disco tunes of the day, but Phyllis is in fine voice throughout. The previously unreleased bonus track, "You're The One," is actually from 1977. However, it fits in just fine with the rest of the record.
This CD was not mastered very loudly, so you may have to turn up your volume knob a little higher than usual. It's a relatively small complaint, considering all the pluses of this CD: it has an exclusive bonus track, it's [less expensive] than the Japanese import, there are additional photos included in the booklet that did not appear in the original album art, and the liner notes are quite revealing in their details of the events surrounding the album sessions. James Mtume himself was interviewed for the liner notes. All in all, BMG Heritage put together a fine package, and hopefully they will give the same treatment to other Hyman recordings in the future.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
10 of 10 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Just Excellent, December 15, 2003
This review is from: You Know How to Love Me (Audio CD)
You simply can't wrong in regards to Miss Hyman's vocal prowess. She was one of the best singers this world as known; I just wish she was still around to grace us with more songs and her tremendous talent. I have seen her perform live several times and she always gave a great show as she had a wonderful personality. This album/cd is arguably her best and I think it's because of the teaming with James Mtume as her prodcuer. He must have known that he was dealing with a heavyweight vocalist. Her vocals are so clear and powerful and seductive. She was a true Queen and sorely missed.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
6 of 7 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Classic, January 10, 2003
By A Customer
This review is from: You Know How to Love Me (Audio CD)
"You Know How to Love Me" was Phyllis Hyman's best song ever. This album showcases some of her best work. A jewel!
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No