Search - Jeff Krassner :: Strong for You

A Stunning Debut

David L. McDaniel | Champaign, IL United States | 02/23/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Lots of debut albums find artists either scrambling to cover all kinds of genres in search of a personal sound, or pigeon-holed by their producer into a sound that doesn't really fit them. But Krassner definitely knows what he does best, and has worked with producer Daniel Wise to create a cohesive and self-assured musical tapestry. When you consider that Jeff wrote or co-wrote all but one cut on this album, it's not surprising that he made the final nominating ballot in four categories for the 1996 Grammy Awards... with an independently released CD, no less! Impressive, indeed. Jeff's sound is an intoxicating blend of rhythm and blues, pop and gospel. His well-trained but earthy tenor soars through the romantic cuts like "I Hear The Angels Sing" (my personal favorite cut) and "Strong For You," with its gently lilting viola and piano arrangement. Jeff also took the brave and exhilarating move to record a cover of Dusty Springfield's "Son of a Preacher Man," giving a whole new perspective and meaning to its lyrics... and this baby grooves, too."The Powers That Be," the opening track driven by wonderful gospel backup vocals, was remixed into a highly dancable club mix by Guido Osorio to close out the album. It's easy to wonder how Jeff could possibly top this excellent debut with his early-2000 sophomore effort, "Maybe"... but I, for one, can't wait to hear him try."