Incognito [Explicit Lyrics]

Track Listings

1. Winna!

2. ? It Like

3. I No Game

4. Free Clinic

5. Shmoove It Owt

6. Bak Up

7. Mak 2 Night

8. Open

9. Do Dat

10. Incognito

Incognito,Kwamé,Wrap,Alternative Rap,Rap,Rap & Hip-Hop,Soul/Reggae/Rhythm & Blues

Average customer rating:

Summer album.
Has its moments but is tepid compared to, say, 11
Emotion To Spare
OK but their traditional style is better
Laid back grooves.

Bees + Flowers + Things
Incognito
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

Acid Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Eleven
Collaborations
Feel the Fire
Interpretations: Celebrating the Music of Earth Wind & Fire
Get Used to It

ASIN: B000GYJNNK
Release Date: 2006-12-26

Tracks:

Everybody Loves the Sunshine
Everyday
Summer in the City
Always There
Raise
Still a Friend of Mine
Tin Man
Crave
Deep Waters
You Are Golden
That's the Way of the World

Amazon.com

Jean-Paul Maunick and his Incognito mates have spent the last 30 years refining and boiling down their version of acid jazz to a smoothly textured, immaculately produced sheen. Bees + Things + Flowers has a more retro vibe about it, filled with peaceful soul, stellar vocalists, and a few smartly executed covers. "Summer in the City" is a prime example of the latter, featuring a loopy vocal line, nimbly negotiated by Carleen Anderson, that floats over soft horns and snippets of playful synth. The singers Maunick brings in are often given the spotlight, even on a jazz flight like "Stand;" of course, a singer like Jocelyn Brown isn't exactly easy to upstage. At times, the record sacrifices tight structure for wandering bliss, like on the nine-minute Earth, Wind & Fire closer "That's the Way of the World." On the other hand, it's not like you can't wait for that nine minutes to end. Maunick, as always, makes it sound like there's all the time in the world. --Matthew Cooke

Album Description

The enduring success of Incognito is one of the great stories of UK music. Inspired by the acoustic and soulful-yet-Laidback funk of Bill Withers, the haunting string arrangements of David Axelrod, and the close harmonies of Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young, bees + thing+flowers was recorded with the 'unplugged' concept in mind. Every instrument is acoustic except the Fender Rhodes electric piano and Fender electric bass. The new album is a mixture of the old ('Deep Waters,' 'Still a Friend of Mine'), the borrowed ('Everybody Loves the Sunshine,' 'Tin Man') and the new ('Crave').

Customer Reviews:

Summer album........2007-05-31

The album starts with song titled "Everybody Loves The Sunshine". That's 100% true. Everyone rates Incognito's "Adventures in Black Sunshine" as the top class and it will be difficult for the band to surpass The Adventure's great musical and commercial success.

"Bees + Flowers + Things" may be targeted at a narrower group of Incognito fans than any of their previous albums. Because of the style chosen for the album: relaxed, tranquil, unhurried summer music. Newcomers to Incognito may feel it to be too mediocre and they may find it appropriate to better start with another Incognito's album, for instance "Adventures in Black Sunshine". For the Incognito fans "Bee + Flowers + Things" may present a difficult load on ear as the initial expectation to hear the Incognito's original style will not match the reality. I stopped playing the CD half way during first listening session. The next day I tried "BFT" again, as background music. And I stopped the CD less than half way through it. The marketers call it "post-purchase dissonance". There will be moments when you expect to finally hear "that deep-low solid boom" and it does not happen... It took me courage to load the CD in my player in two days and... enjoy the album.

The music is very delicate. There are points I found to be of possible importance to enjoy this album. (i) It does not work as background music and requires attention of the listener because the idea is in the detail. (ii) It is more comfortable to listen to this CD at somewhat lower than average loudness level as jumping above breaks the intimacy of music. (iii) The music is better played at the twilight as the song collection does not fit daytime. You may find it different from my experience and that will be fair enough.

As to the repertoire, I would include a couple of more songs a-la "Summer In The City" to pour more energy in music. Anyway the vocals are powerful enough in themselves to deliver that energy. I also found that starting listening to the CD from track 8 "Crave" and then moving to the beginning to track 1 is a good way to set the mood and enjoy the music. You may wish to try this.

The arrangements are perfect. They are subtle and all about the details - this is why the album requires full listener's attention to understand the music.

A star in my rating is eaten by the sound engineering. It could have been better. Such delicate music is about a detail. The sound quality does not deliver that final "dzing" to appreciate the micro-details of wonderful human voice and perfect instrumental play. With a better sound mastering the album would be a top notch for those who is about understanding the music.

Has its moments but is tepid compared to, say, 11.......2007-05-05

I love Incognito and the usual suspects are all here: great performances and amazing vintage sounds married to Steely Dan quality production. This album was supposed to be a change for them and I totally applaud their choice to try to mix it up. Unfortunately, the album just doesn't have the burn of other Incognito albums, leading to an overall so-so performance for them. The covers of their own material---some of their best material, like "Still a Friend of Mine"---just never seem to make it off the runway for me. Other tracks where they're covering other people actually work better. Tin Man and, especially, That's the Way of the World groove. On That's the Way of the World Incognito manages to channel EWF in their heyday (no small feat and I bet they're one of the few bands who could manage it given the vocal talent they have) and sound like they're having an amazing time doing it. In short, it might grow on me so I'm not writing it off right yet, but I don't anticipate this would be anything like 11, 100 Degrees and Rising, Adventures in Black Sunshine, or No Time Like the Future in terms of rotation on my player.

Emotion To Spare.......2007-04-02

Jean Paul 'Bluey' Maunik has always been a great assembler of talent,much in the same way Quincy Jones and Normman Connors were in past years.So it's only fitting a CD like 'Bees + Things + Flowers' has a guest list for the ages;it is after all something of a tribute to the songs that inspired this group in the beginning.Strangely enough I am not familier with all of these songs,even though I love them all.The Axlerodish orchestrations and Chicago style horns (the band Chicago I mean) really combine well.As far as originallity "Everybody Loves The Sunshine" and "Tin Man" seem to stick too closely to the originals,except maybe in vocal arrangement on the latter and the abundance of fender rhodes piano soloing,which is omnipresent throughout.On the other hand "Summer In The City" sounds very nice;it's similar only to BB Kings 70's version in that it's reduced to a slower crawl tempo but this version is heavy on the groove,not the blues.And Incognito fans will be especially shocked by "Alway There" because,for one the band have done this song in the traditional dance style ad infinitum and because here it's dropped right down to slow jam pace,almost unrecognizable.The most incredible thing about this is how the CD closes-a nine minute version of "That's The Way Of The World".Now here's a song that's been covered by so many people and always sticks close to the original.This keeps only the melody and basic arrangement,but the production is very spare and the overall mood very loving;the heavy gospel/cinematic melodrama Maurcie White and Philip Bailey baught to the terrific original is absent from it.You can say this is the "no drama" version of the song and I am not being unfair because the original is a classic and I love both versions.It's just a great song whoever's doing it.One thing that Incognito fans will not find on this,as you would on CD's such as No Time Like the Future , Eleven or even the earliest effort Jazz Funk is uptempo dance and funk tunes;everything here is very soft and mellow and is perfect accompanyment to a beautiful,sunny summer afternoon.If you like your musically incredibly well done this will interest you.

OK but their traditional style is better.......2007-03-08

I am a huge Incognito fan, having all their CDs and having seen them in person several times. This CD is a remake of many of Incognito's previous works. It is "acoustical," not the big band party sound we are used to. Too bad -- that's what Incognito does best. It is like Incognito made into elevator music -- a watered down version of their work. Go for the other CD's; much better. Incognito go back to your roots!

Laid back grooves........2007-03-04

British soul R&B collective Incognito has long been the vehicle for the songwriting prowess of one Jean-Paul Maunik.
The group came to prominence in the '80s as a progenitor of the new soul movement in the UK, and "Bees & Things & Flowers" finds Maunik and Co. still plowing the same furrow. That's OK; they've tapped a productive vein.
With the help of vocalists Joy Rose, Carleen Anderson and Tony Momrelle, Maunik has crafted a gorgeous vibe of a record, one that employs jazz chords over pop-soul rhythms and dulcet, romantic vocal tones. It could all be truly cheesy, but Maunik's sensibilities as composer and manipulator of grooves keep things on the soulful side of the tracks throughout.
"Bluey" hits a retro groove with this album primarily consisting of covers and re-arrangements.. Check Roy Ayers' "Everybody Loves The Sunshine" featuring Joy Rose on vocals and the smouldering take of "Summer In The City", where Carleen Anderson takes the lead.
Maysa adds her unique vocals to the evergreen "Thats The Way Of The World".
Several Incognito classics are given different semi-acoustic takes including "Always There" and "Still A Friend Of Mine".
Listen to it and enjoy !

Average customer rating:

Funky and Soulful
Phat
The Best Incognito Album. Great Jazz!
Positivity - 4.5 stars
Still a friend of mine....

Positivity
Incognito
Manufacturer: Polygram Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Disco | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

House | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

Acid Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

General | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music

Jazz Funk | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music

Neo-Soul | R&B | Styles | Music
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100° and Rising
Tribes Vibes + Scribes
Beneath the Surface
No Time Like the Future
Adventures in Black Sunshine

ASIN: B0000046UI
Release Date: 1994-03-22

Tracks:

Step Into My Life
Still A Friend Of Mine
Smiling Faces
Where Do We Go From Here
Positivity
Inversions
Givin' It Up
Talkin' Loud
Deep Waters
Do Right
Pieces Of A Dream
Thinking 'Bout Tomorrow
Keep The Fires Burning

Customer Reviews:

Funky and Soulful.......2007-03-22

Smooth as silk yet still gives you the upbeat funky and playful feeling. Maybe it is just me, some how i can not find bands or groups nowadays that can produce jazzy soulful pieces like the 80's 90's bands did.

Phat.......2007-03-08

This group is off the hook,worth having,
Hey i'm a musician snd songwriter
Funky and Smooth

The Best Incognito Album. Great Jazz!.......2006-06-19

Well the specific genre of Jazz this is considered is Acid Jazz. Incognito was at a creative and musical peak with this album. I recently sometimes hear "Still a Friend of Mine" on smooth jazz stations. From the opening of "Step into my Life" I was hooked. Maysa's vocal are incredible, and Bluey really lets his creative arrangements loose. Too bad I can't say that about Incognito's recent albums. If you like this album I would also recommend "Beneath the Surface" which is the second best album released by Incognito IMO.

Positivity - 4.5 stars.......2006-04-15

I just pulled this favorite out and listened for the first time in a while. Although released in 1993, the music is truly TIMELESS and sounds as fresh as if it were released yesterday. This is my favorite Incognito album featuring excellent music production, the British acid-jazz sound and with more than a few stellar lead vocal performances by Maysa Leak.

My favorite tracks: DEEP WATERS, STILL A FRIEND OF MINE, DO RIGHT, STEP INTO MY LIFE, SMILING FACES & PIECES OF A DREAM.

Still a friend of mine...........2005-03-15

Even after all these years, this remains my favorite Incognito album...from start to finsih! Each and every song, jazzy, soulful, melodic, upbeat, downtempo, with meaningful lyrics! I still play the heck out of this CD...the uplift it gives is unbelievable... The best!

Average customer rating:

Absolutely Wonderful
Refresing Incognito!
Good Music
Incognito (Eleven)
Disappointed...

Eleven
Incognito
Manufacturer: Narada
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

House | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

Acid Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music

Jazz Funk | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music
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Sweet Classic Soul
Adventures in Black Sunshine
Bees + Flowers + Things
Get Used to It
SOULidified

ASIN: B000CS45I8
Release Date: 2006-01-24

Tracks:

Let The Mystery Be
We Got Music
Come Away With Me
Baby It's Alright
When Tomorrow Brings You Down
Jacaranda
Show Me Love
Will I Ever Learn?
I'll Get By
It's Just One Of Those Things
As Long As It's You

Customer Reviews:

Absolutely Wonderful.......2007-05-02

Eleven was my first Incognito record and it won't be my last. Love it. I am no music critic but I know good music when I hear it and this is GOOD MUSIC.

Refresing Incognito!.......2007-03-19

Been a Incognito fan since the way early Nineties (remember them?)I welcome Maysa back into Incognito's fold; She's the soul of Incognito!

I was impressed with the production of this album - WOW! It's so easy to listen to and melodic all beyond. Bluesy should consider returnign to the USA again since I missed him on the East Coast. Missed you again! Ug.

The problems with this album are sublime yet obvious: Too political and the beats seem regurgitated. Aside from this, Bluey should be given a medal for keeping all of us believing in love.

This music makes you believe again...

Good Music.......2007-03-09

I have always liked Incognito and this CD did not let me down.

Incognito (Eleven).......2007-01-09

I love this CD and the first is what made me a Incognito fan. I now have 5 CD's by this group.

Disappointed..........2006-11-29

After hearing and completely enjoying "Aventures in Black Sunshine"- this CD was a letdown. Maybe I need to revisit it after reading the previous reviews?

Average customer rating:

AWESOME CD!
Love this band!
I love Acid Jazz!
Mediocre Wedding Band
maysa

Best of Incognito
Incognito
Manufacturer: Verve
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

House | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

Acid Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | R&B | Styles | Music

General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music

General | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music

Neo-Soul | R&B | Styles | Music

Verve | Verve Music Group | Specialty Stores | Music
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Smooth Sailing
Eleven
Adventures in Black Sunshine
Positivity
100° and Rising

ASIN: B000050HZN
Release Date: 2000-10-31

Tracks:

Still A Friend Of Mine
Don't You Worry 'Bout A Thing
Everyday
Deep Waters
Spellbound And Speechless (Edit)
Colibri
Roots
A Shade Of Blue (Edit)
Change (Bluey Remix)
Nights Over Egypt (Edit)
Always There (David Morales Remix)
Yesterday's Dreams
Talkin' Loud

Amazon.com

With the success of Erik Truffaz, Nils Petter Molvaer, and St. Germain, the epicenter of the acid jazz/funk scene moves fluidly between the European continent and London, home of Incognito. The genre's roots are inextricably linked to Incognito, a huge amalgamation of musicians led by composer and guitarist Jean Paul "Bluey" Maunick. The band's rabid devotees will no doubt use this 13-song compilation as an Incognito primer for potential converts, particularly pointing to the back-to-back inclusion of their three biggest hits--"Everyday," "Deep Waters," and "Spellbound and Speechless"--which convey perfectly their layers of funk, jazz, and r&b vocal harmonies to the uninitiated. Several special remixes make this best-of important to the knowledgeable hard core who can't get enough of Incognito's vocalists--Maysa, Jocelyn Brown, and Pamela Anderson--including one with Stevie Wonder playing harmonica on Bluey's punched-up version of "Change," and mix-master David Morales's take on Ronnie Laws's "Always There." Much more important to Bluey's army of American fans is the very last track--a rowdy version of "Talkin' Loud." Finally, there is a live Incognito album, Last Night in Tokyo: Incognito Live, available as an import. --Mark Ruffin

Customer Reviews:

AWESOME CD!.......2007-02-12

All I can say is I love this group and Maysa can sing she is awesome!
I finally got to see her live on a jazz cruise and all I can say is awesome this is a great CD the whole darn thing is good!

Love this band!.......2006-12-15

I fell in love with this band when I saw them live in Belgrade, Serbia last May. Their music is energetic, and they wowed the crowd from start to finish. This album is the best of their best music!

I love Acid Jazz!.......2006-08-02

I currently own this cd and it is without a doubt my favorite cd. I just love the smooth and soothing sounds of Maysa's voice and the collection itself is just undeniably the best! This is my wind down music, it takes me somewhere else after a hard day. I would surely recommend this classic for any of you Smooth, and Acid Jazz lovers.

Mediocre Wedding Band.......2005-01-25

I bought this based on the enthusiasm of the reviews. I can only surmise that the reviewers are either friends and family of this group, or that Incognito has compromising pictures of the reviewers. If you're into wedding bands, then this is for you. If you're looking for an original sound with a real groove, look elseswhere.

maysa.......2004-05-12

I wanted to know the name and cd for a song that has some of these words. GOING OUT OF MY HEAD. and where I can get it in detroit.

Average customer rating:

Good music is good music
Nominee: Most Refreshing Musicians - Incognito
Love it
Get up to get down and Jam!
Something's lost in the translation of Incognito's "Scribes"

Tribes Vibes + Scribes
Incognito
Manufacturer: Polygram Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

House | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

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Positivity
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Jazz Funk

ASIN: B0000046MX
Release Date: 1993-01-26

Tracks:

Colibri
Change
River In My Dreams
Don't You Worry 'Bout A Thing
Magnetic Ocean
I Love What You Do For Me
Closer To The Feeling
L'Arc En Ciel De Miles
Need To Know
Pyramids
Tribal Vibes

Amazon.com

Incognito's third album nods to the influences that ground their jazz-funk-and-soul jams. The 11-member band adds a Latin feel to a snazzy cover of Stevie Wonder's "Don't You Worry 'Bout a Thing," while "Magnetic Ocean" has a Weather Report-in-ballad-mode vibe. "Change" combines Maysa Leak's Chaka Khan-like power with sweeping Soul II Soul-ish strings, and "Need to Know" gives props to Roy Ayers (check the clavinet) and Rick James (horn section). The band is at its best showcasing Leak or featuring soloists, as on "Colibri" and the Mandrill-ish "Closer to the Feeling." Still, some attempts fall flat, like the syrupy "L'Arc en Ciel de Miles" that's more Chuck Mangione than Prince of Darkness. This one's for smooth-jazz aficionados; Brit-funk fans should check the band's later fare. --Suzanne McElfresh

Customer Reviews:

Good music is good music.......2006-11-25

Ain't no doubt about it, this is good music. No correction; this is great music. The Cogs brought their A game on this one. It really is a standout release. Highlights are numerous, but the one that knocks me out is Maya's powerhouse delivery on I Love What You Do For Me. Man! Such emotion.....and what a voice!!! Do yourself a favor and pick this one up.

Nominee: Most Refreshing Musicians - Incognito.......2006-03-15

I have been a fan of the musical genius Bluey and this band of musicians for many years; and they continue to amaze me with their dynamic sound. The refreshing brand of music that Incognito continues to create is a real delight and totally overshadows the roster of manufactured faddish so-called performers currently getting radio airplay. A must have for your Incognito CD collection!

Love it.......2002-08-22

I have three CDs by Incognito: Tribes, Vibes & Scribes, Positivity, and 100 Degrees and Rising, and this is my favorite of the three. For some reason, "Don't You Worry 'Bout A Thing" is my absolute favorite track...it gives me goosebumps every time I hear it. :)

Get up to get down and Jam!.......2001-03-28

Well, let me tell you that this cd is a star bright and prue delight...so good that you want to hold on tight all thru the night..cause you might lose yourself in the sweet harmony of incognito! I first brought this cd after listen to Incognito's greatest hit's(Japan Import version) which of the meter also,I fell in love with "Change" and "Colibri&quot...

It makes you want to holla like Mavin Gaye!

If you into real R&B Please pick up this cd!

Later.........

Oh yeah to learn about this wonderful group check out Incognito's website at icognito.uk.org And maysa's website at maysa.com

You won't regret it! Peace

Something's lost in the translation of Incognito's "Scribes".......2000-08-15

After some respectable but unremarkable work in the late eighties, British jazz/funk/soul outfit made a wise move in the early nineties with the hiring of vocalist Maysa Leak. Her rich vocals have a honey-colored tone all their own, and she skillfully manages to sound emotionally powerful while maintaining a silky-smooth nuance that makes it all sound effortless. Unfortunately, the material on hand for her Incognito debut, 1993's "Tribes Vibes & Scribes," shows there was still room for improvement.

The most noticeable problem is Leak's lack of elbow room. She's only featured on five tracks, and while she handles them beautifully they don't use her talents to their full potential. The scatted samba "Colibri" is enjoyable, but the repetitive vocal runs leave Maysa the chance to do little else but go through the motions. "Change" is a midtempo delight, featuring lush strings and a trademark Incognito drum lick behind Leak's masterful vocal, but "I Love What You Do for Me" is so strikingly similar it's a surprise some sort of production tooling wasn't attempted. "River of My Dreams" gets off to a dreamy a capella start, but ends up robbed at a length of barely more than a minute.

Of course, this wouldn't be as obvious if the instrumental material were stronger. And while the Yellowjackets-flavored "Magnetic Ocean" and the slinky "Tribal Vibes" deliver, fare like "Closer to the Feeling" and "Pyramids" sound like watered-down Brand New Heavies, closer to the realm of smooth-jazz than the funk that is obviously being attempted. But Maysa's fifth track is worth the price of admission all on its own: her flawless and spirited vocal take a Latin-flavored, horn-laden rendition of Stevie Wonder's "Don't You Worry Bout a Thing" to the realm of brilliance, making for one of the band's most memorable moments.

Completists of either Incognito or Maysa Leak will no doubt want this in their collection; there are definitely enough worthwhile moments to make it a wise purchase. But in hindsight, "Tribes Vibes & Scribes" is somewhat of a low watermark for a band whose artistry would later reach high tide.

Average customer rating:

Forever Spyro !

A review of Spyro Gyra's Incognito.

Timeless!

Still holds up after 20 years.

Spyro Gyra at their best!!

Incognito
Spyro Gyra
Manufacturer: Amherst Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Jazz | Styles | Music
Jazz Fusion | Jazz | Styles | Music
Smooth Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music
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Morning Dance

ASIN: B000001O7O
Release Date: 1994-06-07

Tracks:

Last Exit
Old San Juan
Harbor Nights
Stripes
Oasis
Incognito
Sueno
Soho Mojo

Customer Reviews:

Forever Spyro !.......2004-09-30

Consider Harbor nights and the glorious and unforgettable theme : Old San Juan .
Only for this last track , the CD is recommendable . Spyrogyra was in a real inspiration mood with the highest creative powers through their brilliant career, with that unique sound and superb beat .
One of the top albums of the eighties and a classic issue of this original ensamble .

A review of Spyro Gyra's Incognito........2003-04-28

Incognito is a fantastic Spyro Gyra cd. It was made in 1982. It is classic Spyro Gyra. This cd was produced around the time when they were at the pinnacle of their musical career. This is a nice cd featuring 8 super songs.

This is the third Spyro Gyra cd that I purchased. I wasn't dissapointed when I got it either. This cd would have to be in the top 7 of my favorite Spyro Gyra cd's of all time. There are plenty of unforgettable, melodic tunes to be had on this album. Old San Juan would have to be their most popular song on this cd. It is one of their most famous.

My top 3 favorite tracks on this album would have to be 1,2, and 5. Last Exit is a nice upbeat song to start of the cd. Old San Juan, of course, has an unforgettable melody to it. Oasis is also a nice quiet piece, hence the name. Every other song on this cd is just as good.

Another feature of Spyro Gyra that I admire is the art on their cd covers, and this one is no exception.

To summarize, this is a great Spyro Gyra album. It's vintage Spyro. It's worth it to buy it. You will have a great listening experience. Thank you for taking the time and generosity to read my review.

Timeless!.......2002-10-29

This was my first Spyro Gyra purchase 20 years ago (on vinyl) but I have replaced it with a CD. My fav tune is till 'Old San Juan' and I still play it every chance I get! Awesome! You won't be disappointed!

Still holds up after 20 years........2002-07-24

Although I had been familiar with Spyro Gyra since hearing Morning Dance on AM Radio when it was a crossover hit, Incognito was the first Spyro Gyra album that I bought. I was sixteen years old, and most of my album purchases were along the lines of Duran Duran and Adam Ant, but this album captured my attention from the first playing. I remember the mystery that surrounded the packaging. No pictures of the band. Band personnel changed from one track to the next. What was with this group with the misspelled name?

Of course the purchase of this album immediately brought about the purchase of other SG albums, but this has always been my favorite. It is immediately relaxing and puts me in a good mood from the first bass note. The album, then CD, have never been far from my stereo. I highly recommend this CD. Albums in this period, including "City Kids" and "Freetime" represent, to me, the peak of this group's career. While I wouldn't give it five stars if you compared it to fusion classics such as "In a Silent Way", it is five stars when taken for what it is: smooth jazz before smooth jazz was hip. Buy it, you won't be disappointed.

Spyro Gyra at their best!!.......2000-12-12

This is my all time favorite Spyro Gyra CD. All memorable melodic tunes.

"Last Exit" is a great upbeat start that can brighten up even the most somber moods. "Old San Juan" is a nice catchy tune that will have you whistling along with it very soon. I didn't particularly like thier choice of putting the live version of "Harbor Nights" on the CD as this version seems both unnecessarily long and slow compared to the studio version. "Stripes" has an nice interesting bluesy sound to it. Then "Oasis" and the title track "Incognito" pick up the pace nicely followed by "Sueno", a nice relaxing balad. The CD then ends with the catchy and upbeat "Soho Mojo".

Tracks:

Solar Fire
Labour Of Love
Beneath The Surface
Shade Of Blue
Without You
Misunderstood
Hold On To Me
Living Against The River
She Wears Black
Fountain Of Life
Out Of The Storm
Dark Side Of The Cog
All That You Want Me To Be
Sunchild

Customer Reviews:

Bass, bass and more bass ...........................2007-07-08

I bought this on the strength of the reviews, but I'm not happy. The bass is dominant throughout the entire cd, sometimes even pushing vocals to the background. I know some people really like a strong bass mix, but if you like more balance, you won't like this.

Beware.......2007-05-30

This is an Ok album in Incognito discography though not their best. Why do I rate it at 2-stars if it is an Ok music? Because I tend to beleive that we should not only listen to music but also try to understand it. Poor sound engineering can hardly allow to enjoy the spectrum of small bits of sound that add greatly to overall impression and invlovment. And the sound quality of this CD is awfull not to say more. It is flat, with no details and lacking life. It is not first time I noticed that Incognito releases are not mastered very well while their great music is all about soul and detail.
So, good music, bad sound...

THIS ONE BOWLS ME OVER!!!!.......2004-11-24

Do you know what makes most songs? For me, it's the horn section, but I'm a sax player. I'm supposed to lean toward horns. In reality, what really drives the song is the drummer. Any song is defined by what the drummer does. And every drummer that Bluey gets for Incognito is masterful at 1) keeping the time and 2) maintaining the flow of the song. It's not about solos but about delivery. And the drummer on this wonderful CD (I'm writing this without the CD in front of me) is fabulous.

And in the context of this CD, the whole package is fabulous. From the opening to the closer, this CD will keep you in a particularly happy groove. Favorites: Chris Ballin singing on "Labour of Love" and "Living Against The River". The guy has such range and emotion; why haven't we heard more from him?? Of course, my favorite Maysa song would be "Misunderstood" with a very poignant sax solo in the middle. And I would be remiss to not mention the incredibly performed "She Wears Black" with a stunning drum solo at the end behind all the horns. Outstanding!!!

Get this CD and drive a few hundred miles on the groove. This is one of Bluey's funkiest offerings and one of my favorite CDs.

Electrifyingly Awsome!.......2004-02-22

This is definitely one of Incognito's strongst offerings.For those not fortunate enough to have checked out this band,a must have!From the rousing "Solar Fire" opening to "Sunchild", a smoker!
I had the pleasure of seeing them live in Cleveland about 5 years ago and have been waiting for thier return ever since!A must have for Incognito purists!!!.

No longer Incognito.......2002-11-08

I became familiar with Incognito in 1996. I saw the video for where did we go wrong and thought, this is a cool cut. I told my father about it, and he made it a point to pick up the album 100 and rising. My father must have purchased the album a half dozen times, because he is always letting people borrow his music only to never have it returned. My father and I have purchased every Incognito album since initially hearing them. Collectively our favorite is "Beneath the Surface" I enjoyed the whole album, but my old man's cut is "Labour of Love". I would love to see them live either in my hometown of Charlotte or with my dad in Boston. I only wish that this style of music get its just due. Bluey and his band are incredible

Average customer rating:

No Maysa....No Problem...
Turning up the heat...
Raises the Pulse !...
Outstanding effort!!
Excellent album

100° and Rising
Incognito
Manufacturer: Polygram Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

House | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

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General | Jazz | Styles | Music

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Neo-Soul | R&B | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Positivity
Beneath the Surface
No Time Like the Future
Tribes Vibes + Scribes
Eleven

ASIN: B000001EFF
Release Date: 1995-06-06

Tracks:

Where Did We Go Wrong
Good Love
One Hundred And Rising
Roots (Back To A Way Of Life)
Everyday
Too Far Gone
After The Fall
Spellbound And Speechless
I Hear Your Name
Barumba
Millenium
Time Has Come
Jacob's Ladder

Customer Reviews:

No Maysa....No Problem..........2005-03-15

This in my opinion is one of Incognito's best CD's. "Good Love," that song is just phenomenal! And though Maysa was absent from this album, Incognito didn't miss a beat...they kept on moving along with great vibes, horns, beats and other vocalist! Great album.

Turning up the heat..........2003-05-12

For those of you who have not come across Incognito before, you are missing out! I first came across this band after the release of 'Tribes, Vibes and Scribes' (with the very catchy lightweight opening track 'Colibri'). This album is a few years and couple of releases later, and it's a wonderful mix of styles. It opens with rhythmic, plusating strings (REAL ones, mind you - another great thing about this band - why have canned-strings and synth-brass when you can have authentic instruments?), and just gets better and better. The soprano sax playout between two of the tracks is awesome, and the layering of sounds on the final track ('Jacob's Ladder') takes some beating - check out the stylish quick bass playing and growling Rhodes solo. If you're just starting out, try something earlier first (either 'Tribes, Vibes and Scribes' or the excellent 'Positivity') then, just when you think you've categorised their style, let this one hit you on full volume. Yeehaah!

Raises the Pulse !..........2003-01-07

Well, I know what I like...and I don't like this...I LOVE IT !!!
The suave finesse of fusing R&B, funk,jazz,and Brazilian/Latin sounds from this British group is a testament that music like this is truly food for the heart, mind, and soul! I bought their 1992 release Positivity and I positively continue to enjoy it to this day...While, 100 and Rising may not have the same sound as their 92 release, times have to change, and they did for the better on this 1995 project. This is material for grown ups and those who appreciate the finer things in life (in a non-materialistic way)! You can NEVER mistake this sheer brilliant artistry for the bubble gum [stuff] out there right now infesting the pop airwaves! Younglings, take a lesson, this is REAL MUSIC !!!
For those who like this genre of music I also highly recommend another British funk-jazz fusing group called Matt Bianco that incorporates some of the hottest Latin sounds and influences around !!!

Outstanding effort!!.......2003-01-07

One of the first CD's I ever brought. And I'm glad I did. Bluey and company raised the standard of what soul music should be. I love "Millenium" and "I hear your name". Definetly not your average R&B group. Buy it and jam on!!

Excellent album.......2002-05-26

The Album where Bluey discovers "big" strings.
Beautifully orchestrated, this was the most soulful Incognito's works. Great vocals(without Maysa), beautiful melodies and great ensemble playing. Nobody should be without it...

Verdi: La Forza Del Destino (complete opera) with Maria Callas, Richard Tucker, Tullio Serafin, Chorus & Orchestra of La Scala, Milan

Average customer rating:

A Classic Set
Callas is okay- Price the ONLY VERDI SOPRANO????
An excellent "Forza" but not the best all round performance
Brilliant Forza and a stupid reviewer
Brilliant - But I also love Tebaldi

Verdi: La Forza Del Destino (complete opera) with Maria Callas, Richard Tucker, Tullio Serafin, Chorus & Orchestra of La Scala, Milan

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Callas, Maria | Divas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Verdi: Un Ballo In Maschera (complete opera) with Maria Callas, Giuseppe di Stefano, Tito Gobbi, Antonino Votto, Chorus & Orchestra of La Scala, Milan
Puccini: Manon Lescaut (complete opera) with Maria Callas, Giuseppe di Stefano, Tullio Serafin, Chorus & Orchestra of La Scala, Milan
Donizetti: Anna Bolena (complete opera live 1957) with Maria Callas, Gianni Raimondi, Gianandrea Gavazzeni, Orchestra & Chorus of La Scala, Milan
Verdi: Il Trovatore (complete opera) with Maria Callas, Giuseppe di Stefano, Herbert von Karajan, Chorus & Orchestra of La Scala, Milan
Verdi: Aida (complete opera) with Maria Callas, Richard Tucker, Tito Gobbi, Tullio Serafin, Chorus & Orchestra of La Scala, Milan

ASIN: B000002RY5
Release Date: 1997-08-19

Tracks:

La forza del destino: Sinfonia
La forza del destino: Act One: Buona notte, mia figlia (Leonora)
La forza del destino: Act One: Temea restasse qui fino a domani! (Leonora)
La forza del destino: Act One: Me pellgrina ed orfana (Leonora)
La forza del destino: Act One: M'aiuti, signorina, piu presto andrem (Leonora)
La forza del destino: Act One: Ah, per sempre, o mio bell'angiol (Alvaro, Leonora)
La forza del destino: Act One: Vil seduttor! Infame figlia! (Leonora, Alvaro)
La forza del destino: Act Two: Scene One: Hola, hola, hola! Ben giungi, o mulattier
La forza del destino: Act Two: Scene One: La cena e pronta (Carlo)
La forza del destino: Act Two: Scene One: Che vedo! Mio fratello! (Leonora, Carlo)
La forza del destino: Act Two: Scene One: Viva la guerra! (All)
La forza del destino: Act Two: Scene One: Al suon del tamburo (All)
La forza del destino: Act Two: Scene One: Padre Eterno Signor (Leonora, Carlo)
La forza del destino: Act Two: Scene One: Viva la buona compagnia! (Carlo, Preziosilla)
La forza del destino: Act Two: Scene One: Poich'e imberbe l'incognito (Carlo)
La forza del destino: Act Two: Scene One: Son Pereda, son ricco d'onore (Carlo)
La forza del destino: Act Two: Scene One: Sta bene (Preziosilla, Carlo)
La forza del destino: Act Two: Scene Two: Sono giunta! Grazie, o Dio! (Leonora)
La forza del destino: Act Two: Scene Two: Madre, pietosa Vergine (Leonora)
La forza del destino: Act Two: Scene Two: Chi siete? (Melitone, Leonora)
La forza del destino: Act Two: Scene Two: Chi mi cerca? (Guardiano, Leonora, Melitone)
La forza del destino: Act Two: Scene Two: Infelice, delusa, rejetta (Leonora, Guardiano)
La forza del destino: Act Two: Scene Two: Il santo nome di Dio Signore sia benedetto (Guardiano)
La forza del destino: Act Two: Scene Two: La Vergine degli Angeli (Guardino, Leonora, All)

Tracks:

La forza del destino: Act Three: Scene One: Attenti al gioco, attenti, attenti al gioco
La forza del destino: Act Three: Scene One: La vita e inferno all'infelice
La forza del destino: Act Three: Scene One: O tu che in seno agli angeli (Alvaro)
La forza del destino: Act Three: Scene One: Al tradimento! (Carlo, Alvaro)
La forza del destino: Act Three: Scene One: All'armi!
La forza del destino: Act Three: Scene Two: Arde la mischia!: Piano...qui posi...approntisi il mio letto (Alvaro, Carlo)
La forza del destino: Act Three: Scene Two: Solenne in quest'ora (Alvaro, Carlo)
La forza del destino: Act Three: Scene Two: Morir! Tremenda cosa!
La forza del destino: Act Three: Scene Two: Urna fetale del mio destino (Carlo)
La forza del destino: Act Three: Scene Two: E s'altra prova rinvenir potessi? (Carlo)
La forza del destino: Act Three: Scene Three: Compagni, sostiamo
La forza del destino: Act Three: Scene Three: Ne gustar m'e dato un'ora di quiete (Alvaro, Carlo)
La forza del destino: Act Three: Scene Three: Lorche pifferi e tamburi par che assordino la terra (Preziosilla)
La forza del destino: Act Three: Scene Three: Qua, vivandiere, un sorso
La forza del destino: Act Three: Scene Three: A buon mercato chi vuol comprare?
La forza del destino: Act Three: Scene Three: Pane, pan per carita!
La forza del destino: Act Three: Scene Three: Nella guerra e la follia (Preziosilla)
La forza del destino: Act Three: Scene Three: Toh! Toh! Poffare il mondo! Che tempone! (Melitone, Preziosilla)
La forza del destino: Act Three: Scene Three: Rataplan, rataplan, della gloria (Preziosilla)

Tracks:

La forza del destino: Act Four: Scene One: Fate la carita, e un'ora che aspettiamo! (Melitone, Guardiano)
La forza del destino: Act Four: Scene One: Giunge qualcuno, aprite (Guardiano, Melitone)
La forza del destino: Act Four: Scene One: Invano Alvaro ti celasti al mondo
La forza del destino: Act Four: Scene One: Le minaccie, i fieri accenti (Alvaro, Carlo)
La forza del destino: Act Four: Scene Two: Pace, pace mio Dio! (Leonora)
La forza del destino: Act Four: Scene Two: Io muoio! Confessione! (Carlo, Alvaro, Leonora)
La forza del destino: Act Four: Scene Two: Non imprecare, umiliati a Lui ch'e guisto e santo (Guardiano, Leonora, Alvaro)

Amazon.com

If it were not for Maria Callas, we would all think that La Forza del Destino is essentially a prime exercise and showcase for great soprano voices, with a few goodies thrown in for the rest of the cast and the chorus. In this recording, Callas's voice is not technically great, though it is usually good.She makes most of her points by other means: close attention to the value of words, subtle nuances of tone and phrasing, an uncompromising determination to confront the emotions in the text and convey them honestly and strongly, even when they reach a terrifying intensity. We have here, under the absurdities of plot, a compelling psychological portrait of a woman driven beyond her limits--a woman whose brother wants to kill her lover, who has killed her father. The supporting cast is skilled and Serafin shapes a powerful interpretation. -- Joe McLellan

Customer Reviews:

A Classic Set.......2006-11-09

Despite the few cuts and the mono recording this is still one of the most desirable sets of "La Forza del Destino". The main reason is of course Maria Callas's traversal of the role of Leonora. She was still in pretty good voice at this stage in her career and, though there are moments more comfortably vocalised by some of her rivals ("la vergine degli angeli" for instance), she is the complete Verdi heroine. No other soprano sets before us so well a character torn between conflicting feelings in the first act - on the one hand, love and filial duty, and on the other, love for Don Alvaro. Her very first utterances have a thrill unmatched on other recordings. Later, in the second scene of Act II, she is absolutely superb. Whenever she is before the microphone, we are aware of the greatness of the score as music drama. Here she is helped immeasurably by Serafin's command of the dramatic impulse of the music, and the magisterial, kindly and protective Padre Guardiano of Nicola Rossi-Lemeni. Others may have sung the role with better technique and more beautiful tone, but few, if any, are more interesting in the role. Of the other principals, Richard Tucker is almost their equal. With a voice so splendid and so suitable for the role, it seems a pity that he occasionally feels the need to make up for the fact that he is not Italian, by breaking the line of his singing with unmusical aspirate and sobs. In all other respects he is ideal. Carlo Tagliabue is a little past his best (he was 56 at the time of the recording), but he sings with authority, if without great immagination. Elena Nicolai is, if not the best or most accurate of Peziosillas, at least a spirited and involved performer. Both Plinio Clabassi as Il Marchese di Calatrava and Renato Capecchi as Melitone give strong accounts of their roles.
I have never quite been able to understand why in some of EMI's Callas recordings from this time the mono sound is pretty open and in others quite constricted. This, like the De Sabata "Tosca" is really pretty good. I hardly missed stero at all. And Serafin is superb. He is still, to my mind, a severely underrated conductor. Seen as a singer's conductor, he is somehow thought of as being a little anonymous, but for me, he allows the music and the drama to unfold in a completely natural way, without drawing too much attention to himself, as so many modern conductors tend to do. His "Otello", after all, is considered one of the best conducted versions in the catalogue.
As the previous reviewer noted, this is probably the most expensive way of acquiring this set, but it does come with full notes, libretto and translation. If they are not important to you, you may wish to wait until it is issued at super bargain price, as it inevitably will be, by Naxos, Regis and EMI themselves.

Callas is okay- Price the ONLY VERDI SOPRANO????.......2006-09-06

Callas, not my favorite, could sing Verdi well so could Leontyne Price. Any statements suggesting that these were the only Verdi sopranos - Opera Lover's refusal to acknowledge anyone but Price suggests either very limited listening experience- what about Ponselle, or Milanov or poor hearing.
In this role Tebaldi is as good as I ever heard although she did not sing as much Verdi as the above mentioned divas. CAVEAT!!!! Unfortunately, I did not hear Ponselle either live or in the whole opera or all bets might be off with Tebaldi. Ponselle was a unique vocal and dramatic presence.

An excellent "Forza" but not the best all round performance.......2006-08-24

I'm saddened by the intemperate nature of some of the preceding reviews of this recording, so let's try to keep it objective and fair. First, no-one inflects the text and caresses those glorious melodies as affectingly as Callas although Price in 1964 and Tebaldi in the (pretty raw!) live Mitropoulos recording run her close. The infamous "flap" in Callas' voice is only occasionally in evidence and she more than compensates with heart-wrenching portamenti and thrilling excursions into her lower register. Tucker is very, very good, if occasionally guilty of his besetting fault of being too lachrimose, but the top rings out magnificently. The rest of the cast, with the exception of Capecchi's firm, characterful Melitone, is not up to their standard, though Nicolai is wholly acceptable in the essentially irritating role of Preziosilla, with her silly tub-thumping music. Tagliabue is clearly past his best but does not disgrace himself, despite some rather nasal, laboured sounds. My one real bugbear is Rossi-Lemeni; I have never understood why he was so esteemed. The voice is woolly, unsteady, lacking centre and without the true bass gravitas the role of Padre Guardiano requires - although he certainly sounds old! Serafin's conducting is typically well-judged, in turn both pacy and intense as this gloomily beautiful music demands and you soon forget that the recording is mono, the sound being so clear, clean and brilliant. My favourite "Forza" is still the 1964 Schippers for the all-round excellence of the cast, though the 1947 Marinuzzi (available cheaply on Naxos) is worth having as it's a real period recording with a pulsating sense of live theatre about it (and you can hear Tancredi Pasero sing the role of Padre Guardiano as it should be sung). The above-mentioned live Mitropoulos contains the single most exciting piece of tenor singing I have ever heard in Del Monaco's "O tu che in seno" - the audience go wild and start mooing their appreciation like demented cattle - so you have quite a choice, the Schippers being the safest.

Brilliant Forza and a stupid reviewer.......2004-11-22

What does such drivel give you? Do you have to bash a devoted artist in order to have a life? What a shame this is! This Sills-sycophant accuses Callas' fans of bashing while HE is the one who posts profane, unmusical and tasteless nonsense. I've worked with singers and conductors for over 50 years and am appalled by such awful manners and stupidity. This is a great La Forza del Destino. Even IF one were not to "get" Callas, how [...] he rate the work of a Tullio Serafin who experienced Verdi himself in such a horrenduous way? Go, listen to your Sills and leave the reviewing to those who have taste and musical knowledge!

Brilliant - But I also love Tebaldi.......2004-10-18

The Callas-Forza is brilliant. Wonderful. But Callas was neither a mezzo (Well, with an F in her throat?) nor was her voice ugly IMHO but had a very unique beauty to it, very bittersweet, not all whipped cream like Tebaldi or today Fleming. But hey, I love many flavours. That's why I can heartily recommend both sopranos' Leonoras here.

Average customer rating:

Funk like this I can bear
URBAN SUPREME!!
Incongito's Early daze...

Inside Life
Incognito
Manufacturer: Polygram Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

House | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

Acid Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

General | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music

Neo-Soul | R&B | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Tribes Vibes + Scribes
Life Stranger Than Fiction
Positivity
Jazz Funk
No Time Like the Future

ASIN: B0000046KU
Release Date: 1992-03-17

Tracks:

Inside Life
One Step To A Miracle
Journey Into Sunlight
Gypsy
Promise You The Moon
Sketches In The Dark
Metropolis
Love Is The Colour
Soho
Always There
Crazy For You

Album Description

Inside Life features the bands best known track and only top 10 hit, 'Always There', and is available for the first time at this fantastic price. 11 tracks. Spectrum. 2006.

Album Details

The Album is Now Available for this First Time.

Customer Reviews:

Funk like this I can bear.......2006-10-28

So I am ridgid in my acceptance crietria, but at my early forties i am not going to accet styles I found unpleasant when I was younger.

A friend of mine who is very knowledgable on jazz told me about this group, so when i found it at less that 4 USD in a used cd store, i gave it a shot. The musisians are maestros, the funk is bearable, the arrangements impeccable. its a nice surprise

URBAN SUPREME!!.......2001-06-11

This Brit-Funk Movement brings nothing but raw energy to this amazing 1992 project. Although this album is'nt as good as their later recordings but its definitely worthwhile for the ears. Armed with gritty urban rhythms and painstaking arrangements this album sets the standard in urban-chill grooves. Incognito is a must have for those who dig REAL music. Be good to yourself yourself, check out their other albums such as Tribes, Vibes & Scribes, Positivity, No Time Like The Future etc. Go Get It!!

Incongito's Early daze..........2000-02-03

Bluey Maunick's Incognito is one of the best bands few have heard. Inspirational dance beats with a vibrant que for catchy beats and original production. Incognito released 2 CD's 1992: "Inside Life" and "Tribes, Vibes, and Scribes." Inside Life is the more instrumental of the two. There are only a few vocal tracks on this CD. Yet those are very delicious! It seems the music on Inside Life was meant for a main CD but had to be culled into 2 halves. "Once Step To a Miracle" is the first track that will catch your attention. Catchy, powerful, and an incredibly smooth mix of drums, bass, horns, and synths. "Love is the Colour" is another standout. Crisp, easy, and very deep. My favorite is "Soho." Linda Muriel's sweet and sexy voice coupled with Bluey Maunick's vocal synth's blend well in this funky track.

Overall, I love this CD. It may not be a staple of many collections. I can assure you it will be one hard to avoid listening when it is!

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