Search - Raphael Saadiq :: Ray Ray

3.5 stars

W. E. Phillips | USA | 01/21/2007

(3 out of 5 stars)

"After an unnecessary intro, the album begins with the enjoyable groove of "Ray Ray Theme." The rest of the album is hit and miss. Some of the songs sound, well... thrown together. This project is somewhat self indulgent on Ray Ray's part. Saadiq does a social commentary on how "Grown Folks" need more help than the children these days. (Amen!) The weird metaphor of "Rifle Love" works somehow, and is a reunion of his two previous groups. "I Know Shuggie Otis" is great, too. (If Raphael insisted on the blaxploitation theme, it should have continued throughout. The little story in the liner notes is entertaining, though.) So overall, this album is a little above average. It is cool and enjoyable overall. I would recommend buying it, but it's nothing to rush to the store for."

Average But Decent

E. H. Reynolds | Chicago (South Side) | 04/19/2006

(3 out of 5 stars)

"This release is typical Rafael Saddiq style which includes the heavy bass licks, DJ QUIK produced-like beats with various instruments including strings. Not sure where he was going with the "Ray Ray" Blacksploitation theme, but it didn't seem consistent throughout the album. There was one marginal attempt to evoke a Mayfield type of sound. For the most part, after one listen I'd say 50% of the lackluster album are true hits, the rest is filler. Most Toni Tone Tony - Lucy Pearl -Saddiq fans will pick this up in a heartbeat but may be a tad disappointed. All said, this doesn't touch "Instant Vintage". Since I am a big TTT-Saddiq fan, this listening experience won't sway me from buying anymore of their releases. R. Saddiq is a true musical giant."