Nu Life - Nu Life

Published Tuesday 30th May 2006
Nu Life - Nu Life
Nu Life - Nu Life

STYLE: R&B
RATING 6 6 6 6 6 6
OUR PRODUCT CODE: 15684-9783
LABEL: 5am 99332
FORMAT: CD Album
ITEMS: 1
RELEASE DATE: 2006-03-13
RRP: £4.99

Reviewed by Tony Cummings

Cross Rhythms have long been supporters of these Midlands soul sisters though in recent years it appeared that the chance of the big time had passed for Dionne, Maryanne and Estella as newer groups like Siani grabbed most of the recent publicity. But surprise, surprise, the trio have come bouncing back with this album, produced by Tony Bean and Colin Bassett. Everything's in place - some smooth, fluid lead vocals, some impressive harmonies and some funky programming. And it's possible that you'll hear one or two of these songs on urban radio. But, in truth, few of the songs connect and the single "Woman Like Me" is probably the best cut on the album while the anti-drug song here "Natural High" is worthy in its intent but has one of the most stilted lyrics you are likely to hear. Great voices but, all in all, better songwriting needed.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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Product Description
Nu Life are Maryanne Hepburn, Dionne Williams and Estella Ible, three vibrant young women hailing from Birmingham in the UK who embarked on their musical journey ten years ago, after winning a national talent contest.

The group have shared the stage with some of the biggest names in the industry - artists such as, God Quest, Kirk Franklin, Fred Hammond, Mary Mary, Michelle Williams and Donnie McClurkin. Nu Life have also toured with Stellar Award winners Dawkins & Dawkins as support act and backing vocalists. The group have also appeared as live support for US soul diva Angie Stone, US soul legend Bobby Womack, and UK soul man Lemar.

Some of the songs on this, Nu Life's debut album, are very personal and intimate, some are very hard hitting and direct, and some might be classed as outright, off limits, controversial, which by definition means this album cannot be categorized as your typical, everyday, run-of-the-mill, garden variety Gospel album. In a day and age when there are messages in every picture and influences in every song, there is a need for positive, uplifting and righteous music that is unapologetically hard-hitting and urban, yet uncompromising in its message, and this album hits the spot!

Reader Comments

Posted by jaydee in birmingham @ 20:14 on Oct 4 2012

I remember the day i saw Nu Life in concert and i heard the song Speak Father it spoke to me. Here i am six years later singing the same song to my daughther knowning that the same song will bless her the same way it blessesd me. Nu Life thank you.



Posted by leanne McClean in blackpool @ 11:51 on Mar 23 2006

Good luck to the girls in Nu Life,we wish you all the love luck and happiness in the world.



The opinions expressed in the Reader Comments are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms.

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