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by Mark Maxwell Abushady, NYC Film This Time Although subtitled “A Music Documentary,” this film is more of a documentary on the artistic life and temperament. Following the careers of ‘The Sweet Inspirations’ (a backup group looking to be in the foreground), Pat Hodges (a fierce solo singer once a member of a group set to rival the Supremes), Bobby Belfry (a singer/songwriter and cabaret artist), and Pietor Angell (a songwriter/producer/manager), the film examines their interactions, hopes, dreams, ups and downs. All are compelling and engaging in both story and song. They have experienced hard times, are not in their twenties, and are pursuing second chances as they recommit to former goals and dreams. What makes this more than a simple documentary is that it examines, though cannot answer, why artists self-sabotage, fear success, and quit or slack off prior to hitting it big. Beautiful Pat Hodges presents perhaps the most poignant and moving story, sharing tales of homelessness after such early achievements, her inner struggle and triumphant success performing in gay clubs, and trying to find a way out of poverty for her family. Pietor Angell, taking both Ms. Hodges and The Sweet Inspirations under his tutelage, creates wonderful songs and situations for them to shine, though faces professional recognition hardships of his own. Bobby Belfry, on the East Coast – a singer-songwriter as engaging as his songs – relates the feeling of wanting to be further along … as far along as he thought he would be at this time in his life. He supplies one of the quotable quotes: “The only way to be effective is to be as vulnerable as possible, otherwise, it’s bull. Otherwise, it’s MTV.” I think this is a must see for anyone involved in the performing arts or striving to “break through” to another level. Haunting, moving and thought provoking . . . recommended.
Music
The liner notes suggest the use of this CD as “a powerful conscious experience for you and your baby.” That seems entirely possible, as the cuts are joyous and uplifting, inviting movement, laughter and bonding between parent and baby. Indeed, I wished I had a little one bouncing on my knee during many of the songs! Gentle vocals, and ever-present percussion consisting of djembe, conga, djun djun, ocean drum, bongo, agogo, bell, cowbell, woodblock and more define this album. Percussive elements are lively, yet never jarring or out of mix with the other elements, while the lyrics are spiritual, positive, and affirmative in nature (Beauty is within me, God lives deep inside me, Love grows bright within me, I know who I am). A very special offering.
Higher Self There is something familiar about this music. Flavors of early Genesis and Phil Collins; Crosby, Stills & Nash harmonies at times (“Prime Mover”), Barry Gibb and the Bee Gees, Loggins and Messina, and more, play across the selections. In this way, the music sounds like an old friend (to those of us old enough to remember these musical groups, that is). Mr. Kinny’s lyrics, however, are certainly up-to-date, with references to the isolation caused by personal electronic devices, environmental pollution (“Look into the river, I’m watching sludge flow by/There are no plants to speak of to purify/Some think it’s the devils work planned in secrecy/Stemming from fear and absence of decency”), distractions to the awareness of self, and other revelations. As such, although other musical figures are referenced, “Higher Self” is a unique and unusual collection of songs, worthy of closer listening.
Trillium The artist states that this is a collection of music “inspired by the power of three.” Gentle piano framed with well-chosen instruments including cello, flugelhorn, synthesizer, zither, hammered dulcimer, various percussion and percussive elements (and a host of more exotic instruments) make up the palette Ms. Carothers creates with, to much success. While dynamic and energy levels vary, I found the overall experience one of gentle mind and soul searching. A lovely album, at times subtle, soothing, and introspective and at others upbeat and uplifting in expression. Recommended.
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