Stevie Wonder – Songs In The Key of Life (Album Review)

Songs In The Key Of Life is one of those unique album experiences that comes along once in a generation. Billed as a double album, part of the uniqueness of this release was that it originally shipped with a bonus EP called A Something's Extra that included the four final tracks that you’ll find on all digital counterparts. While this additional element could be seen as unnecessary to the core album experience, I couldn’t imagine Songs In The Key Of Life sans these bonus tracks as some of them are representative of Stevie Wonder’s most creative output. Granted, in the modern era, bonus tracks are nothing special but we must remember that we’re talking about 1976; a year when the vinyl record reigned supreme and rather than have a third full-size record, with nothing pressed on the sixth side, the additional 7-inch record seems to be the perfect compromise between maintaining artistic vision and the vinyl record’s limited runtime. 

Even with such an abundance of music, as incredible as it is, Songs In The Key Of Life can, at times, be a little too long; particularly if you wish to listen to the album in its entirety. Of course, that is part of the appeal for it is an audible journey that needs to be experienced in its intended sequencing, at least once, as you’ll be amazed at just how fluid and spectacular this release is. Yes, it ebbs and flows throughout, and some songs may touch your soul more than others, but as an album experience, there really isn’t a bad song to be heard. Yes, there is the occasional extraneous moment, but if we believe in artistic license, then these aspects must remain unaltered, unchallenged, and ultimately appreciated.

As it pertains to the sonic presentation of this release, Songs In The Key Of Life was masterfully mixed and recorded with kid gloves, yet all releases should not be considered equal. I was flawed by the sonic reproduction on the High Fidelity Pure Audio (HFPA) Blu-ray release as the DTS-HD Master Audio lossless codec added a sense of presence that had always been absent from the CD counterpart. The presentation is fuller and more three-dimensional in its soundstage (despite being only delivered in stereo). Most importantly, however, the clarity of the Blu-ray release wasn’t as bright as the CD editions, thereby eliminating listener fatigue. Correcting these previous flaws makes for a thoroughly enjoyable listen ensuring that you still get the sparkle in the top end but it's never so prominent that it overpowers the mid or low-range aspects of the recording. 

Turning our attention to streaming and we have a Hi-Res Lossless Apple Music stream which is also an Apple Digital Master. While it is anything but shrill, sharing the reserved nature of the Blu-ray release, it’s also not quite as dynamic while also sounding a little concealed by comparison. That said, if you’ve never heard any other edition of the album, then the Apple Music stream will likely offer you a perfect facsimile. However, if you are looking to go that additional mile, the Apple Music stream may not be the best choice as songs that are meant to pop, such as As, are ultimately a little too relaxed. Interestingly, Qobuz has a different master, and it’s incredibly similar to that heard on the Blu-ray release, hence it may be the direct counterpart minus the physical container; an important aspect seeing as the Blu-ray release has been out-of-print for a considerable time. 

While it’s clear that I prefer the Blu-ray release, for it encourages my body to move involuntarily to the music, I just don’t feel the Apple Music stream is connecting with my soul. That doesn’t mean the Apple Music stream isn’t enjoyable to listen to, but it subjectively isn’t the perfect release of this classic album.

While mastering always plays a role in the appreciation of music, whether you pay attention to that aspect or not, Songs In The Key Of Life is really all about the music and as you listen you’ll come across a collection of songs that can best be described as a kaleidoscope of musical genres. Wonder effortlessly weaves through jazz, R&B, funk, and even classical elements with each tune being a testament to his versatility and mastery across various musical styles. Yes, the album is synthesiser-heavy, but Wonder’s inclusion of groundbreaking technology, at the time, was used to enhance the music rather than being implemented simply because it was available. The result of this refrain was that Songs In The Key Of Life is timeless and there’s little doubt as to why this 1976 record remains Wonder’s most celebrated release. 

Of course, the sonic aspects of the album would be for nil had Wonder’s songwriting not been up to snuff, but in Songs In The Key Of Life we find a lyrical approach that is nothing short of poetic genius. The storytelling is vivid and emotionally resonant, painting a rich tapestry of the human experience while simultaneously addressing social and political issues. 

Love's In Need Of Love Today opens the album with a beautiful vocal harmony before launching into a soulful ballad that, in many ways, sets the tone for the journey ahead. It, as so many of the songs from this album are, is masterful and is amongst the greatest tunes Wonder ever recorded. 

Have A Talk With God is a spiritual and introspective track that blends soul, jazz, and gospel elements. Wonder's vocals are accompanied by a celestial choir, creating a transcendent atmosphere that is extremely compelling. 

Village Ghetto Land is a socially conscious piece that uses orchestral arrangements to paint a vivid picture of urban struggles. The juxtaposition of classical elements with Wonder's soulful delivery adds a powerful dimension that is difficult to ignore. While it may not be a standout song, and would have never been considered for release as a single, it’s the quintessential album-only tune that is perfectly suited to the overall style of the record. 

Contusion is an instrumental jazz-fusion piece showcasing Wonder's prowess as a multi-instrumentalist and genre-bending artist. Featuring intricate melodies and a dynamic interplay between all musical elements, Contusion is an exceptional work of audible art that had it been released by one of the jazz greats, would have become a renowned jazz standard.

Sir Duke is simply magnificent with an introduction that Duke Ellington would have been proud of for Sir Duke was a tribute to the jazz legend. While the entire song is spectacular, the infectious horn arrangement and upbeat rhythm ensure Sir Duke remains a timeless classic.

I Wish is a funky, upbeat, energetic number that captures the essence of the funk and soul music throughout the 70s.

Knocks Me Off My Feet is a soulful and romantic ballad that showcases Wonder's vulnerability and emotional depth. The tender lyrics and melodic arrangement make it a standout and it's one of the best songs from the album.

Pastime Paradise is musically incredible. That instrumental styling, along with the lyrical delivery, stays with you well after the song has ended. Most modern music lovers will likely be familiar with Coolio’s reworked interpretation of the song as Gangsta’s Paradise from his 1995 album, Gangsta’s Paradise; an interpretation that I dare say is spectacular and better than this original. Nevertheless, the core Stevie Wonder tune has a haunting quality that, when combined with the choir element, represents some of the greatest music ever released.

Summer Soft, by contrast, is more mellow but flows seamlessly from Pastime Paradise. Summer Soft, however, isn’t a standout, but as another album-only tune, it’s simply incredible as it ensures the flow of the album is maintained. 

Ordinary Pain is a lovely mellow ballad, until it picks up the tempo midway through, which delves into the complexities of love and heartbreak. Wonder's emotive vocals, and the soulful arrangement, contribute to the emotional impact of the song, but it’s the mix that I find myself continually drawn to for the backing vocals are perfectly positioned in the mix and never detract from Wonder’s vocals or the musical bed. If Ordinary Pain isn’t a textbook example of a good mix in audio engineering circles, I’m not sure what would be.

Isn't She Lovely is a joyous celebration of the birth of Wonder’s daughter, Aisha who also happens to appear on the track as she’s the baby crying at the beginning of the song and the young child featured towards the end. It’s a fitting tribute to his daughter and while I would love to have a version sans these child elements, simply because I feel they detract from the core song a little too much, the song wouldn’t be the same if it were edited in such a way. 

Joy Inside My Tears is a contemplative and soulful ballad that explores the theme of finding joy amid life's challenges. The emotional depth of Wonder's vocals and the intricate arrangement make it a standout tune.

Black Man is a socially and politically charged track that addresses issues of racial identity and pride. The powerful lyrics and dynamic musical arrangement contribute to its impact as a statement on social justice. That said, it’s difficult to dance to so while it resides in a lyrically important place within music history, had it not been so lyrically powerful, it likely would have fallen flat. 

Ngiculela-Es Una Historia-I Am Singing blends Latin and African rhythms with Wonder's signature sound. The multilingual lyrics convey a message of love and unity and while most English language speakers would be unaware of the specific words sung, that doesn’t alter the fact that this song is thoroughly enjoyable.

If It's Magic is a delicate and enchanting ballad with a simple arrangement that highlights the timeless beauty of the harp and Wonder’s soulful tones. 

As is one of Stevie Wonder’s greatest songs. The rhythmic tempo, perfectly cemented in the 70s, is timeless and connects with your soul. The sweeping musical arrangements and heartfelt lyrics provide the backbone to a song that continues to build to its climactic and triumphant conclusion, showcasing Wonder's musical prowess. 

Another Star is a dynamic and energetic fusion of Latin, funk, and jazz influences. As another of Wonder’s extended musical journeys, there is little doubt regarding his skill as a musician for he’s able to capture your attention and hold on to it, whilst simultaneously ensuring that you’ll want to listen to the music time and time again.

Saturn is a cosmic and experimental track where the use of synthesisers and atmospheric sounds contribute to its otherworldly quality. It’s the first of the EP songs to be included on the album, and while I’m normally not a fan of bonus material, Saturn is magical and fluidly continues the brilliance that has already been present throughout the album thus far.

Ebony Eyes is amazing, brilliant, sensational…you get the idea. Flowing perfectly from the closing moments of Saturn, the rhythm reaches into your soul and ensures that your body will move involuntarily to the beat. It is, arguably, the best song from Songs In The Key Of Life and is severely overlooked. 

All Day Sucker has a lively rhythm and playful lyrics that further showcase Wonder's ability to create infectious grooves with not only his music but also his lyrical delivery. 

Easy Goin' Evening (My Mama's Call) was an interesting choice as the closing tune. It’s reflective, yes, but its tempo is so different to the previous three tracks that it feels like it would have been better suited in another sequenced position within the album with the energy of All Day Sucker closing out the collection of songs. Nevertheless, it’s a lovely album-only tune and while I always feel compelled to listen to the album again, following this song, I also find myself more than satisfied to move on to the next record in my library as the length of Songs In The Key Of Life can be a little too long. While there’s no such thing as too much Stevie Wonder, this classic album puts that statement to the test and sometimes it is best to appreciate the album and come back to it at a later date rather than to immediately repeat the journey.  

Overall, Songs In The Key Of Life stands as Stevie Wonder's crowning achievement and is a landmark release in the landscape of popular music that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. It’s a breathtaking musical odyssey that spans a myriad of genres, showcasing Wonder's unparalleled musical skill, innovative production, and profound lyricism. It, ultimately, is nothing short of a masterpiece! 

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Stevie Wonder – Hotter Than July (Album Review)

When you think of Stevie Wonder, you’ll often be drawn to Talking Book or Songs In The Key Of Life, but as I reflect on Hotter Than July I’m amazed that this was Wonder’s nineteenth studio release. Perhaps such shock is derived from the fact that so few of us have explored Wonder’s extensive catalogue of music, instead focusing on the aforementioned titles, and while Hotter Than July may not be a landmark release, like these other records, there is little doubt that it’s one of Wonder’s best albums.

The same could not be said, however, for the Hotter Than July 2011 vinyl reissue from Mobile Fidelity Sound Lab. It was cold, clinical, and lacked any resemblance to Stevie Wonder’s unique sound signature, depth, and overall spaciousness. Think for a moment about the worst recording you’ve ever heard and you’ll come close to that monstrosity. Even though this review is penned post the MOFI debacle, I had this experience years before and sold the record well before it became clear that the once highly touted reissue label was being less than honest with their process. Of course, it’s important to note that this was a Silver Series release; one that has always been declared as being mastered from a production master rather than the original master tapes. Still, with that in mind, it simply wasn’t good and I would strongly advise that you avoid it like the plague. 

As a result of being bitten once, I’m naturally a little hesitant to pick up another vinyl reissue of this album and have found that the lossless Apple Music stream, an Apple Digital Master, is exquisite with a sound reproduction that I feel is not only perfect for the style of music but arguably as good as this album is ever going to sound. There’s a warmth in the digital stream that was sorely lacking from the aforementioned vinyl reissue. Interestingly, Apple Music also has the non-Apple Digital Master edition; essentially a CD facsimile. That particular edition is comparable to the aforementioned digital master, but it’s a little shallower in the mid and low end and, therefore, as someone who appreciates a solid authoritarian thump to their Stevie Wonder music, the Apple Digital Master is just that little bit more refined and makes for a more immersive listening experience. Essentially, you’ll feel your body wanting to move involuntarily to the rhythm whereas the CD equivalent lacks that aspect and you’ll find yourself listening rather than being absorbed by the music. It’s a minor variation, but one that’s important to music lovers the world over.

Did I Hear You Say You Love Me is a perfect opener but wasn’t necessarily the best choice of song to launch Hotter Than July with. While I acknowledge my contradiction, I am a strong proponent that something can both be and not be at the very same time for it depends on one’s subjective feeling at the moment when the song, in this case, is being experienced. Subsequently, there are times when I consider it to be too harsh as an opener and other times when I consider it sets the tone of the album. Yes, dear reader, I’m a complicated man but if I’m not in a funk or upbeat mood, then Did I Hear You Say You Love Me will prevent me from listening to the rest of the album. It’s a divisive track, as will be my opinion of it, but at least we’re talking about it for it could simply be an adequate opener. 

All I Do is a fantastic song and while the backing vocals are recessed a little more than I’d like, Michael Jackson’s inclusion is notable and is a perfect complement to Wonder and the music itself. 

Rocket Love is a beautiful tune if you don’t listen to it for its literal meaning as it becomes a sombre song of love lost. Still, it’s one of my favourite songs on the album and I can generally block the lyrics from my mind when I listen to it, instead focusing on Wonder’s harmonies and allowing me to appreciate his vocal as if it were another instrument in the mix. 

I Ain’t Gonna Stand For It sees Stevie Wonder delve into Country Music territory, yet it’s masterfully performed and showcases just how exceptionally talented Wonder is. Seriously, few musicians could take cues from so many varied genres and merge them in a manner that not only makes sense but sounds as if it should have always been that way. Yet, Wonder knows no limits in this regard; a master musician!

Eric Clapton recorded the song, but as much as I generally appreciate Slowhand’s musicality, this cover is an abomination. 

As If You Read My Mind is a sharp flow from I Ain’t Gonna Stand For It and while it delivers a shock to the senses, you quickly get past it and even expect it if you’ve listened to the album often enough, but it isn’t until the chorus that the song really comes into its own removed from the jolty transition. Wonder’s harmonica on this track is of particular note as it’s the perfect solo that’s also complementary to the song itself. As If You Read My Mind may not be a standout tune, but it’s funky and sometimes that emotive element is all a song needs in order to be thoroughly enjoyable.  

Master Blaster (Jammin’) has so much of a reggae feel to it, you’d swear it was a Bob Marley tune. As a fan of Marley, this tip of the hat is thoroughly appreciated and Wonder certainly captured not only the musical style but the core of what makes reggae music so compellingly addictive. While there’s a little of Marley’s Jamming influence here, Wonder’s funk and pop styling drove the song’s direction; the result of which is nothing short of exceptional.  

Do Like You returns us to your more traditional Stevie Wonder-styled song. While Master Blaster (Jammin’) was exceptional, Wonder has certain techniques that are standouts in their own right and when listening to Do Like You, the intricate layers of musical elements culminate into a classic Stevie Wonder song. Plus, that ending is not only hilarious but further validates that Do Like You is Stevie Wonder 101. Brilliant!

Cash In Your Face has a more mellow tone compared to Do Like You, but it’s appreciated as it gives the senses a chance to downshift. Cash In Your Face is a perfect toe-tapping head-bopping tune that also has a social element pertaining to racial inequality. I’d like to say that since 1980 the song is no longer relevant but that would be a blatant lie for discrimination is sadly alive and well. For all the influence musicians have, it is truly disappointing to note that societal changes move at glacial speeds, despite their endorsements. 

Lately is a magnificent, albeit sombre, ballad. Wonder has a stunningly beautiful vocal presentation and while it’s always present in his songs, it takes a ballad for it to come alive and for the approximate 4-minute runtime, you’ll swear he’s in the room with you for the mix perfectly places him on top of the musical backdrop. It really is a masterful recording and one of Wonder’s greatest songs. 

Happy Birthday can be seen as an upbeat politically fused song but regardless of the noble intent to honour Martin Luther King Jr., I find Happy Birthday to be the most cringeworthy song on the album; from an audible, not literal, perspective. The problem is that my mind has settled into the stunning Lately and the shift detracts from that relaxed reflection. Having listened to Hotter Than July countless times, over the years, you’d expect that I would be familiar with it and accept it, and to a certain extent I do, but I do wish that Happy Birthday was positioned earlier in the album.

There is little doubt that Hotter Than July is one of the better albums in Stevie Wonder’s extensive catalogue of music. Songs In The Key Of Life, however, is his musical opus, but Hotter Than July is difficult to ignore for its upbeat musicality will compel your interest well before his dictums do. Of course, that is Wonder’s gift for his music can be appreciated by those who look for deep lyrical meaning as well as those, such as myself, who wish to experience and enjoy music in a more ethereal manner that merges with the musical aspects of our soul. Stevie Wonder’s Hotter Than July is subsequently one of the more compelling releases of 1980 and should be in every music lover’s library. 

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