Jei - Jei (The Album)

The long-awaited album was released late last month. The tight 8 track set covers a wide variety of sounds and styles though one could call it mostly Deep House. The album opens with the minimal "Brave Myself". The long, sinewy intro leading into the vocals sets the tone and mood. The big room meets Deep House production of  "Paradise" is divine. Things slow down for a break with the moderately downtempo "I'm Ready." The Dubstep-influenced "Remember" has a fun 80s feel though it sounds current too. "Wishing" is dramatic and haunting power ballad. "Feel It" is a sexy tribal, deep cut with lush pianos. "Always Behind" is another great track with it's mid 90s Twilo sound. The album ends with an uptempo tribal remix of "Paradise". Overall, every one of the songs is single-worthy. Jei's vocals are enchanting. The album arrives just in time for the warm Summer months.

Purchase the album here (iTunes)

Grade: A

Jei - I'm Ready (Remixes)

This is the latest single from the former reality TV star. Produced by Oba Frank Lords, this club track is a great throwback to the halcyon days of 90s House music. Jei delightfully channels the vocal style of La India, La Princesa de la Salsa who was known for this type of belting on House songs. Oba's main mix is sparse and tribal recalling Danny Tenaglia's Twilo era mixes. Danny G, Murk, and QBA provide the additional mixes. Danny G's mix is the most current with its tribal/electro sound. Murk do their best to bring back their sound heard circa their Liberty City project. It's straight out of the early Sound Factory era. QBA's mix is really deep and dark, also in the vein of mid 90s Danny Tenaglia and Peter Rauhofer. Overall, all of the versions are great.

-Purchase the digital single here (Beatport)

Grade: A

Jei - Show Me The Money

This is the latest single from reality TV star Jane Castro from VH1's Tough Love. Produced by the legendary Giuseppe D, the catchy song has a strong 90's Eurodance flavor. Jei's vocals do sound somewhat autotuned, however, they sound fine. The additional rap also adds to the Eurodance feel calling to mind some of those "he raps and she sings" songs that defined that period. This is a fun Dance/Pop song overall.



Purchase the song here (iTunes)

Grade: B+