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Smokey Robinson
Food For The Spirit

Motown legend Smokey Robinson dug into Gospel on the acclaimed Motown Comes Home project from way back in 1994, singing "I'll Keep My Light In My Window".

That song shed some light into the singer's long-held, deep spiritual convictions for those who didn't know (or who had never heard his oft-spoken personal testimony). You can find out more on that, by reading our interview with him.

Eight years later, on his own Robso Records and in conjunction with Liquid8 Records, Robinson puts out his first all-Gospel project, testifying to the real Power inCD his life.

Food For The Spirit is a nine-song festival that delivers everything you would hope for and expect in an album from this veteran soul crooner and master songwriter.

Robinson stays true to his signature sound, working with long-time collaborator Michael Stokes on production and arrangements.

Beginning with the uplifting "Jesus Told Me To Love You", he sets the tone with a grooving, soul-laden vibe. Consistent with the entire project, Robinson never shies from the no-holds-barred Gospel message, presenting Jesus Christ as the Answer in no uncertain terms.

The lightly funked "The Road To Damascus" asks pointed questions and presents dictates such as "lift up your eyes and be blinded by His light" and "fall off your high horse and be humbled on the ground". Calling it a musical sermon from Smokey would be hard to argue.

Even more rugged on the sermonics (and the funk too) is "Gang Bangin'", a song that hits with hard lyrics pointed at the gangsta or gangsta-wannabe who wields a nasty influence over those around him. Andrew Gouche's bass guitar adds the right punch as Robinson warns that "God can see you".

Smokey RobinsonThen on a couple cuts, Robinson switches gears and plants his feet firmly in soul-pop territory. "Standing On Jesus" fires up with a subtle musical nod to Michael Jackson, followed by "He Can Fix Anything", which picks up significant groove steam by song end.

Things get a bit softer on "Let Your Light Shine on Me", as Robinson's signature airy vocals are up front, laid over strings and a soft rhythm track. "I Have Prayed On It" moves in much the same vein.

Then On "I Praise & Worship You Father", Robinson sings his praise embedded in a traditionally-influenced beat with a touch of soul groove. Piano and some choice background vocalists push the cut's unmistakeable swing.

Smokey Robinson has been around for a long time. It's great to hear an album like this from the man.


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Producer: Michael Stokes
album release date: April 20, 2004
Robso Records / Liquid8 Records


— review by Stan North


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