In his new CD Reflection Lewis worked with Grammy Winning Engineer Jeff Jones (best contemporary blues record) and Wendell Brooks. He has created an intimate and intense experience where the listener can hear the spirituality and sensuality of the Michael C. Lewis expression, with an intellectual edge to it that makes it “fresh but familiar.” Michael says, ” I am excited to step out as a solo artist and to meet people who enjoy my music.” Like the beginning of a day Lewis’ CD begins with “Reflection (Sunrise)” a wonderfully contemplative opening that evokes visions of sunlight beaming through the window welcoming you to life and its beauty.
“Gulf Breeze” is a bouncy track that glides along with Lewis’ full bodied and inviting tone soulfully providing harmonic interest and intriguing lines. Alva Nelson (piano) and Wendell Brooks (drum programming) create aterrific interaction and interesting rhythmic patterns for Lewis to build upon.
“I Need Your Love” is built upon R&B sensualities, Lewis and Brooks provide a rich vocal pad echoing a well blended transparency of the song’s title. Lewis showcases his abilities with quick lines and well placed long note passages, reflecting the many sides of his technique.
“I Dedicate My Heart,” begins with a Miles Davis influenced muted horn, joined by a driving funky groove provided by Wendell Brooks. Lewis is featured on vocals. What is so pleasing about this cut is the fact that Lewis has a robust masculine voice which is rarely heard in the male vocal genre. The lyrics are well-crafted and meaningful, providing a nice texture transition in the release.
“Nightfall” signals the next mood change of the album, transitioning the listener to the romantic sights and sounds the evening might bring.
“Miles to Go,” is a hip and funky cut, signaling the nighttime is in full gear. Its spicy, funky and a bit of house mixed into one gumbo, that leaves a satisfying flavor of fun and hipster all in one bite.
“Reflection (Sunset)” signals the end to a full journey of musical delights and sounds. Lewis and Brooks together offer a soothing cut that leaves the listener calm, relaxed and ready to wind down for a reflective sleep.
Each track has its own unique voice and emotional offering. Whether the listener desires a reflective moment or wants to get their groove on “Reflection” as a complete works offers many textural sonic palettes to offset any gathering or moment of the day. Together, Lewis, Brooks and Jones have created a complete collection of contemporary offering.
What is uniquely different about this CD is the textural changes, moods and transitions each cut takes the listener through, making this a stand out release from a production, execution and performance standpoint. Lewis is a fresh voice in the contemporary music world that is sure to please the listener expecting more. Simply put; its worth the listen.