Freaking Phenomonal!!!
M. Cole | Detroit, MI USA | 07/29/2010
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Clearly this is one of my favorite cd's and I've only listened to it for 1 day. While every track is refreshing, my personal favorites are "Greater Than the Sun" and "Make Love to Me" ft Detroit's Own MonicaBlaire, just to name a few because the whole cd is the truth
Stunning, creative, melodic, soul stirring etc etc etc
SunStorm is undeniably my best purchase of 2010!!!
If you like +FE, you WILL LOVE SunStorm."
Sunstorm is the perfect summer album!
Nu-Soul Magazine | California, United States | 08/02/2010
(5 out of 5 stars)
"If you need further proof that anyone affiliated with The Foreign Exchange is changing the shape of contemporary soul, look no further than the latest release from extended +FE member Zo! Enlisting the aid of fellow touring Foreign Exchange members Yahzarah, Phonte, and Darien Brockington as well as extended Nicolay alumni like Sy Smith and Carlitta Durand and progressive soul standouts like Eric Roberson, Monica Blaire, and Lady Alma, Zo! has crafted a true masterwork of epic proportions with Sunstorm.
Less experimental than The Foreign Exchange's evolving sound, Sunstorm is more rooted in traditional soul but it has a very modern edge to it that makes it spring to life. The compositions are complex and intricate, yet they work on the most basic level. Much like the production work of Nicolay, you will feel the emotional content of these songs. Lush strings, muscular drums, and swirling percussion can be found on each track.
The album opener "Greater Than The Sun" sets the tone for the album with its gentle string intro that gives way to a strong head nodding groove. Most of the album gives off a summertime positive vibe, infusing elements of 70s soul on "Greatest Weapon Of All Time" featuring Sy Smith or London broken beat on "Free Your Mind" featuring Lady Alma. But the album works best when straddling the line between groovy R&B and head-nodding Dilla-esque hip-hop. The title track stands out immediately as Yahzarah works the undulating groove with her unique confidence and sex appeal. The finger snapping "This Could Be The Night" is another strong standout putting the talents of Big Pooh, Eric Roberson, and Darien Brockington to perfect use. Despite the use of so many different vocalists, Sunstorm retains a strong sense of cohesion throughout. The music is always first, with many tracks spinning into blissfully wandering instrumental explorations. This is true music, and Zo! has revealed himself as a musician of the highest order.
- Norman Mayers"
