Unplugged - Alicia Keys

Advantages: Brilliant performance
Disadvantages: 1 weak link

...After Alicia Keys recent album success, I have become somewhat of a fan and started to delve into her back catalogue. One of the albums in there that I had really enjoyed is this MTV Unplugged session from 2005. Recorded on her home turf a Brooklyn Academy of Music, this is a showcase for a true vocal talent and talented pianist. The applause for her opening "Intro Alicia's Prayer" soon dies down and you can almost hear a pin drop until her smooth soul voice takes over. She barely sings 5 lines and the audience are clearly die hard fans as they appreciation of her is plain to hear. Personally, I like Alicia Keys when she has a bit of attitude in her voice, so I welcomed the early inclusion in the set of "Karma" & "Heatburn", which are brilliant examples of that attitude, and performances like this put other wannabee R&B singers... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: A great album packed full of memorable tracks.
Disadvantages: No lyrics included in booklet! a few forgettable tracks.

...Review of Alicia Keys 'Songs in A minor' 2002 album -Including a Remixed & Unplugged Limited Edition Bonus Disc. I have Alicia Keys first and second albums, I have loved her music from when I first heard it-something that was both cool and contemporary fusing her love for classical and old-school music with fresh sounding RnB. Her young and confident style is also appealing, together with her interest in and work for World charities. Although this album is 7 years old, I still listen to it lots today, sounding as fresh and unique as ever. I hope to buy her latest album 'As I am' too. I have been impressed by the artists' talent of playing her own instruments including the piano, and writing and producing her own songs-great! Her sound to this particular album I would describe as very romantic with some great funky tunes and lovely... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: Beautiful arrangements, some brilliant new songs
Disadvantages: Could of been more new material, but the CD does not feel empty without them,

...Having been lucky enough to go and see Miss Keys live twice, I can honestly say, as beautiful as her voice sounds when its been recorded in a studio, its only when you hear her live that you fully understand how talented she is. This album lets you get closer to the experience of her live performances. Although it has only has a few new tracks, hearing a live recording of her old favourites brings something new to the songs. Some of the arangements have been changed, the backing singers are sensational, and i would say some of these versions are better than the orginals. I definitely wasn't left feeling short changed by the limited number of new songs, although the ones that are on there are excellent, particularly Wild Horses, which is a sensational duet with the amazingly talented lead singer of Maroon 5.Definitely one to listen out... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful