Artists/DJ: Antoni Lyons
Album Title: We Dance We Pray
Genre: House
Year of Release: 2011
Label: SoulCandi
The friendly and down-to-earth poet, actor and songwriter Antonio Lyons has just released his follow up project, We Dance We Pray. Famously known for his talent for poetry in motion, Lyons pushes his poetry gift even further on this album with some interesting musical takes.
The poet, who is also a skilled actor, brings something fresh to this album, showing signs of growth and commitment. From the soul-piercing sounds, African all the way to soulful house, Lyons provides all in good faith.
With this album, the things that stand out the most are the production quality, the artists featured and also the brother's outstanding poetry flows. What is also likely to catch the listener's attention is how softly Lyons swings around the beats; he does exactly what the beats command him to do - if it's a calm song, he keeps it that way until the end. Adding more to appreciate the good music are the various vocalists who are featured in each song - they deliver punchy takes that sink in well with the overall production.
This album is, however, not for those who like banging sounds. We Dance We Pray is for one's listening pleasure and also to appreciate great work. Giving his songs more life, Lyons has also teamed up with a few musicians who play live instruments such as trumpet and guitar. This decision has worked out well, as the instruments lift the songs higher.
Noteworthy songs on the album include ‘Mama Papa', ‘If I Gave You', ‘Home' and possibly the best offering on this project, ‘Soul Musiq'. What is even more interesting about this release is that Lyons worked with a range of people, including Phoenix Kayode, RJ Benjamin, DJ Terence Parkah, Lebo Mashile, Rocco and DJ Mbuso, to name but a few. With such great talents adding their juices to the album, it is clear that what it contains is something magical.
Indeed, We Dance We Pray is what I would call great quality music that is likely to stay in the public eye for some time. With this project, it is safe to say that the brother has really gone all out to put together a release that will not only claim him a spot in the music scene, but also earn him more respect for his take on music.
It is no surprise that Lyons has really outdone himself - after all, he has in the past worked with some talented individuals, including Revolution, Twistyle, Troye Lilley, Tamara Daye and Musa Manzini. This is a massive album, especially if you have an ear for good sounds.
Cover/Art: 2½/5 | Sound/Technical: 4/5 | "I like it factor": 8/10
MIO Rating: 4/5
