Jody Watley is the definition of a survivor. Closing in on 40 years as a musical force, the Chicago-bred diva began her career as a “Soul Train” dancer before becoming 1/3 of legendary pop ‘n B group Shalamar. Following that group’s classic run, she went on to become a Grammy-winning soul artist, not to mention a trendsetter in fashion and visual media.
Watley’s album-releasing mojo has slowed of late, but she’s back with an EP (her first suite of new music in eight years) called Paradise (purchase on Amazon). The 6-song set applies her mature vocals to a set of songs that adds to the legacy of great dance music she’s created thus far. A successful hybrid of synth-soul, disco, ’90s house and modern electro flavors, there’s a lot more going on here than the mindless thump thump thump of what passes for “EDM” these days. It’s retro while also being completely of the moment, especially at a time when the disco-tinted stylings of Daft Punk are racking up top 5 hits and Grammy Awards.
Songs like “Nightlife” and “Dancer” make it clear that Paradise is meant to get your ass in gear and out on the dance floor. Of course, as a dancer herself, Jody knows that movement of the body is a form of therapy for many. Paradise will resonate with the folks who dance to shake the stress of life away first and foremost. It certainly brings me back to my brief period as a regular at places like the Tunnel and Limelight in the mid ’90s, and I see no reason why Paradise won’t be the soundtrack for every tea dance from now until the end of the year. Of course, every night of dancing faces the inevitable comedown, and the EP’s standout track, “Sanctuary” is a moody, downtempo piece that showcases the warmth of Jody’s voice in a different way than the more energetic songs do.
I’ve been on Team Jody since I was barely old enough to read album covers, so it’s no surprise that I like Paradise quite a bit. Even as someone who’s now pretty far removed from club culture, I can listen to and enjoy this music (and there’s a lot to be said for dance music that you can enjoy outside of a dancing environment.) While I certainly hope Jody doesn’t take eight years to make new music (and, if we’re adding to the wish list, I’d love her to make another full album,) Paradise is a solid half-hour of jams from a legendary pop music diva.
Grade: B