Raul Midon
A World Within A World
Manhattan/Capitol/EMI


Raul Midon arguably possesses one of the most soulful and smoothest voices in music today, comparative to such greats as Donny Hathaway and Marvin Gaye. Couple that with his silky guitar skills and his endearing song writing capabilities, and you have a true musical talent. His debut album 'State Of Mind' was a real breakthrough, and exposed the world to Midon's brilliance with soul, acoustic, and nu-jazz music. His new album continues on from this, and if there were any left unconvinced by his debut album, then this sophomore release leaves no doubts of Midon's enormous talents and magical gifts.

Many listeners will be familiar with the sound of the album opener. Pick Somebody Up is an infectious soul pop track, with its r'n'b vibe accentuated fittingly by Midon's vocals. Other radio friendly tracks include the socially profound All The Answers, and The More I Know, which is filled with tactile and auditory metaphors, showcasing Midon's skills as a songwriter as well as a singer.

The album also extends Midon as an artist. He pays homage to his Latin background with the sentimental soft guitars and wind pipes of Tembererana, and Caminando, a beautiful fusion of Latin, folk, roots and pop music. Ain't Happened Yet is a bluesy number with acapella components that Midon seem to relish. However, Midon stands out most when he takes on the balladeer role. And not only does his vocal ability come to the fore, but the sincerity and the passion in his song writing delivers a lasting effect. The straight up love song All Because Of You is touching and delivered with real feeling, whilst Song For Sandra is a heartfelt ode to Midon's late mother, cleverly written as an internal soliloquy.

This album is not delivered with enormous fanfare, and I thank God for that. The album's substance and charisma make it a truly endearing album - one that will no doubt stand the test of time.

Leo Varona