Author: Erykah Badu

Format: CD

PartNumber: 1684775

Release Date: 16-09-2003

Details: Amazon.ca Worldwide Underground, the third studio album from nu-soul pioneer Erykah Badu, is both a marvel of jazz smooth sensuality and misguided genius. Without question, Badu was--and clearly still is--an original; her 1997 debut album Baduizm, a rich and unexpected fusion of soul, jazz and rootsy hip-hop, paved the way for Lauryn Hill, Jill Scott, India Arie, Macy Gray and Alicia Keys. However, as with her last album, Mama's Gun, it's her pioneering spirit that's actually Worldwide Underground's stumbling block. The gorgeous "I Want You" is a prime example. Starting off with the simple trick of chanted notes which mutate into a fantastically sexy groove, it's the album's woozy highlight until, inexplicably, it breaks into bizarre snarling synth riffs and jazz-fusion noodling. On the one hand it's a stroke of stripped-back brilliance; on the other it's a fragmented mess. Elsewhere the barrage of influences, ideas and production add-ons, while ensuring that things are never dull, make for confused and chaotic listening. Yet with "Bump It Up" and "Danger"'s hypnotic melodies, "Woo"'s head nodding sway and a raft of smooching soul tunes like "Think Twice" and Back in the Day (Puff)" to get lost in, she still manages to mesmerise, even when she's trying way too hard. --Dan Gennoe Product Description Erykah Badu

UPC: 044001935626

EAN: 0044001935626

Model: 2002921

Languages: English

Binding: audioCD

Item Condition: UsedVeryGood