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Milira
Solution
By Steven Fullwood
Y'all remember Milira? Back in late 1980s, this diminutive powerhouse won a
singing contest at the legendary Apollo Theater that led to a recording contract with
Motown. Touted as the next big thing, Milira's self-titled debut was well-received and
featured an excellent cover of the Marvin Gaye's classic "Mercy Mercy Me." Her
throaty vocal and scatting style showed the influence of Sarah Vaughn and set high
expectations from the then 19-year old singer. She released her second album, Milira, Back
Again!!!, in 1992. It flopped and shortly afterward, Ms Jones dropped out of site.
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Now eight years later, Milira's is back, well, again, with Solution, a
gospel album. In the light of legends Mahalia Jackson, Tramaine Hawkins and contemporary
vocalists CeCe Winans and Yolanda Adams, Milira can hold her own. She has a distinct vocal
style that drips with raw emotion. Unfortunately, Solution's poor production and weak
songs weigh down the album, and undermine the singer's tremendous voice.
Written, arranged, performed and produced entirely by Milir, (with the exception of one
song), Solution will make you go "hmmm." The biggest "hmmm" concerns
her decision to write and play every instrument on the album - even if it appears to be
just one instrument - a keyboard. Without a doubt, such a voice needs to be supported by
live instruments. See any album by Anita Baker for details.
Milira would do well to get back in the studio with songwriters and producers who can help
her create an album worthy of her phenomenal voice.
M
August 2000 |
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