Search - Goapele :: Change It All

I Wouldn't Want To Change Much!!!

Charles L. Hubbert | Milwaukee, WI | 02/03/2006

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Goapele is a phenomenal artist in every sense of the word. She paints vivid pictures of the stories she tells, a craft that few singers can truly do since they all tend to resort to whatever catchy hook is going to get them a Top 40 hit. The socially-conscious vibe as well as the wistful antidotes shape the very essence of who Goapele is and what her music is about. Even Closer (the revamped version of her independently released Closer) was released in 2002 and helped get her name out there to the contemporary soul crowd. Now over three years later, the sultry songstress returns with her second album Change It All. Luckily, she sticks to a similar formula on this album and doesn't adjust her sound too much.



The title track "Change It All" is the most melodic piece on the whole album, resorting mostly on a simple piano riff and Goapele's deep thoughts on the problems of the world and of your neighborhood. "First Love" takes a look back at the magical feelings we all felt with our initial relationships. "Different" talks about the how couples that start out okay can result in both sides drifting apart and hoping things can be worked out. "Crushed Out" talks about the warm feeling you get from being with your significant other. "Find A Way" is a mid-tempo cut about how we all need to start acting right and doing things for the greater good. "If We Knew" reflects on things we've learned about that we should have handled differently. "Battle Of My Heart" is a soft serenade about following your feelings without giving much thought to what the true consequences of your actions will be. "Darker Side Of The Moon" is a spirited anthem penned by longtime songwriter/producer Linda Perry.



There are a few experimental tracks like "Love Me Right" "4AM" and "Fly Away." But considering this is her second album, she has a little wiggle room to try some things without losing the listeners' interest. With a solid sophomore effort, Goapele has the material to capture new fans of her music. I've had the chance to see her perform live twice and both times she was phenomenal. If you get a chance to hear Change It All (see the Media Center to hear the entire album now) or catch her as an opening act, you will see that Goapele is a truly blessed singer. Hopefully you'll be as blessed as I am for hearing her music in the first place."

Does she know me?

Renee A. Edwards | Washington DC | 02/05/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I became addicted to neo soul in 1995.Towards the end of the last decade my artists disappeared on me. Ms Goapele came out when neo soul had all but lost all its soul. How one person can connect so deeply with the "musical ones" is phenomenal. She has so many faces and her music does display that. She beat the sophomore jinx with change it all. I am so torn as to which I prefer but I tell you what I'll just continue to rock both. If this artist is new to you give her a chance. You could mess around and become her #1 fan. Peace"

Enticed by the Voice, the Lyrics, the Music

Corey in LA | Los Angeles, CA | 12/27/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Once in a while I stumble upon a CD so enticing with its melodies and lyrics, it becomes addictive. Goapele's "Change It All" is my most recent discovery. From the hypnotic Intro, Goapele manages to reel you in with rhythms and beats so mesmerizing, it's hard to let go. What separates Goapele from the rest is that she knows how to tap into your soul by exploring a plethora of subjects -- from a call to social activism ("Change It All") to first loves ("Crushed Out") to growing pains of the past ("If We Knew.") Goapele runs the gamut and through her willingness to tackle such an array, you'll feel as though you've come to know the artist firsthand... her likes, her fears, her joys and her frustrations with life and love. Other standouts on the project include the mid tempo "Find a Way", the rap induced "Different" and "You" -- a ballad featuring talented crooner Dwele that's so powerful, it'll give you goosebumps. Goapele is even kind enough to include a hidden track of her popular tune "Closer." Kudos to Goapele for offering such thought provoking and uplifting soul music for the New Year."