John Legend & The Roots "Wake Up Everybody"

Some folks will be surprised to know that The Roots will have their second project of the year released in September. It's a collabo w/John Legend. To me, they could have chilled a bit after the recent acclaim for "How I Got Over". I mean, it was just released late last month.

At any rate, the first single from the "Wake Up Everybody" project is out. The title track also features Common and Melanie Fiona. It's a remake of the Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes' classic. I only listened to the new version once and it's just okay. With the star power involved, it should have and could have been better. It just seems to lack as much fire as the original; but then again, maybe it's that Teddy Pendergrass factor.

You listen and let me know what you think hip hoppers. kfox.

From Okayplayer:

"Wake Up Everybody" by John Legend and The Roots featuring Common and Melanie Fiona

I'm actually diggin this studio session for "Hard Times" more than the 'official' first single.

Top 5 Reviews of The Roots' "How I Got Over"

The Roots' "How I Got Over" (#HIGO on Twitter) was finally released on Tuesday, June 22, 2010. The project is a Wow! I won't go into detail w/my personal review (not yet), but here's a short list of what folks are saying:

1. From Crawdaddy Mag: "Album Review: The Roots, How I Got Over"

I like the details on this review.

2. From Pitchfork: "The Roots: How I Got Over"

A lengthy, quality music review.

3. From Monsters and Critics: "Roots have another hit with 'How I Got Over'"

This is a thorough assessment of HIGO. Lots of tidbits of information.

4. From Spin: "The Roots, 'How I Got Over'"

Praise for "Dear God 2.0".

5. From The Washington Post's Click Track: "Album Review: "The Roots, "How I Got Over""

Gives credit to the female singers on the album's intro.

So hip hoppers, what are your thoughts on HIGO? You be the critic. kfox.