JEVETTA STEELE - HERE IT IS

This is an interesting release for a number of reasons.  First and foremost, there are two versions of it.  For those of you who aren't familiar with her, Jevetta Steele is a member of The Steeles, a gospel family group who recorded with Prince in the 90's.  She's probably the most prominent of that group and released a solo record, "Here It Is" in 1991.  This is that original release.  It was initially only carried by Musidisc, a French label.  It included two tracks written for Steele by Prince.  'And How' and 'Skip 2 My U My Darling'.  

In 1993, she released the album in the US on Columbia, but with a different tracklist, different songs and she replaced the two Prince tracks with two other Prince songs.  The Columbia version includes the Prince penned 'Hold Me' and 'Open Book'.

The two albums share 5 songs in common though it should be noted, the songs seem to have been re-recorded for the 93 release making them different from the versions on this disc.

Steele has a powerful voice.  This is part of the reason she's singled out among her siblings.  When you listen to the material she chooses to showcase on this record, you get a mixed message.  She's obviously a strong and talented gospel singer.  You can tell that's where she feels most comfortable vocally.  The arrangements of the songs on this album definitely play to that strength.  There's an attempt to make the songs more contemporary, but they don't always cross over.  For example, the first track, 'Say A Little Prayer For You'...  Originally titled, 'I Say A Little Prayer' and written by Burt Bacharach for Dionne Warwick, features The Steeles on background performing in full gospel glory.  Even though the very nature of this tune is contemporary, it takes on a soulful gospel tinge here.  

The music arrangements can often sound a bit generic and standard.  There are exceptional tracks that really stand out.  Both of the Prince tracks make a huge impact on the ears.  The first song, 'And How' features a funky guitar punctuating throughout and a deep bass groove happening throughout.  The Steeles once again add backup maintaining that gospel feel.  'Skip 2 My U My Darling' is a more urban sounding track with some delightful organ adding the church vibe.  'Here It Is' has a light, pop beat and has a lot of potential as a chart single.  I really enjoy the tune and I think she makes a great attempt at the Top 40 sound with this one.

'Calling You' is probably the most startling of all the songs on this record.  It's stunning.  Both versions are dramatic and intense.  They allow Steele to really cut loose and show her vocal chops.  It's breathtaking.  The haunting tune was used in the "Baghdad Cafe" film and garnered Steele a lot of attention when it was released.  By itself, this track might make the purchase of either version of this album worth the money.  Wow.

'Good Foot' is a rousing number that should be sung by every church choir!  It's exciting and full of energy.  Another stunning performance here.  I'm not as enthused about the rest of the material on this disc, but I do give her credit for making this a great disc.  Even if you're only buying the disc for a couple of songs, she delivers!

For collectors of Prince, this is the most rare version of this album and hard to come by because it was only released in France.  It's also the only place you can find these two Prince songs.  If you're lucky enough to find it, buy it.  It's a must have.

My final words:  AN AMAZING RECORD FROM AN INCREDIBLE VOCALIST.

JEVETTA STEELE - HERE IT IS
01. Say A Little Prayer For You
02. Baby, Are You?
03. And How
04. You're Gonna Love Me
05. Here It Is
06. Calling You
07. In This Man's World
08. Good Foot
09. Skip 2 My U My Darling
10. Where Do We Go From Here?
11. Love Will Follow