MARCELL & THE TRUTH: Hopes Too High

Marcell & the Truth

Hopes Too High

© 2006 Marcell and The Truth (634479516559)

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This is what you call an instant classic: visual words, genuine life stories, clever melodies, real musicians, real singing. Yeah, real soul. They got it and you have to get it.

notes

MARCEL AND THE TRUTH; Basement Boys
HOPES TOO HIGH
In a time when the music industry has grown too smart for itself, when radio is filled with overproduced, mechanical songs that are more about attitude than music, a casual listener would be led to believe that organic soul music no longer existed. And that's what makes an album like Hopes Too High that much more special. Sounding like they simply grabbed their instruments in a club and started playing, Marcell & the Truth deliver a stunning set of songs here that are equally inspired and inspiring. The group effecively mixes elements of jazz, soul and blues, sounding like the rightful heirs of Frankie Beverly and Maze, but with slightly rougher edges. And while the disc consists mostly of midtempo numbers and relatively simple arrangements, it never sounds repetitive or stale. To the contrary, the simplicity makes it more effective, allowing a bluesy guitar riff or a mournful organ note to alone carry the moment, and bringing even more attention to the fourteen excellent compositions that comprise Hopes Too High. Kudos to producer Teddy Douglas, who makes all the right moves in matching musical moods to lyrical content, from the innocent vocal harmonies of the title cut to the almost eerie tension (reminiscent of the the Dramatics' "In the Rain") underlying the break-up song "Maybe I'm Not the Man" to the joyous build-up throughout the standout track "Time Stops."


There will be many more popular and more critically trumpeted albums in 2007 than Hopes Too High, but it will be tough to find many that are better. This is a nearly timeless disc that would have been as notable in 1977 as it is in 2007. But by any measure, it is a keeper -- as are Marcell & the Truth. Very highly recommended.
-Chris Rizik soultracks.com



I know the Basement Boys label, but I don’t know Marcel and the Truth. If I didn’t know better I’d suggest that the great David Peaston has morphed into Marcel Russell, the lead singer here. Russell, you see, has one of those huge gospel reared voices that can do both whispers and screams with pure soul beauty. Hear that to best effect on this album’s title cut. “Hopes Too High” is simply one of the best real soul ballads I’ve heard this year. Boasting
gentle Temptations style harmonies, the song has lovely melody and a delicious hook in the title line and Marcel plays it to perfection. There’s lots more great balladry here to notably “Maybe I’m Not The Man” (with a hint of “In The Rain”), “Time Stops” and “Its Been Too Long”. The best up-tempo cut is the wah-wah led ”Evil Woman”, while “Please Come Down” is a gentle mid-tempo shuffle. The opener “Never Leave You Lonely” is another delicious mid-tempo beater, while for classic old school soul testifying try ”Coming Home To You”. I loved that one, but in honesty I kept
coming back to “Hopes Too High” its just one of those great
recordings that only real soul people connect with. I guess you are so this is for you - honest
-Bill Buckley (Blues and Soul Magazine UK)

reviews

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  • los Angeles Stepper
    author: P from Calle

    Marcell, I finally got around to googling you and was not surprise to see all the positive write ups regarding your music. Seeing you perform @ the stepper's event, Phoenix and Metropolitan Steppers event in DC, I was taken by your performance which blew eveyone away. Had to tell everyone, if they get an opportunity to see you live, GO! Don't need to name a favoite, the entire CD is off the chain. But if you must know, my favorite is Hopes Too High. Ok, Ok, Never Leave You Lonely. Ok, Ok, Breathe Love. Ok, how about the whole CD is BAD. See you @ the next stepping event. "Steppers, Let's Go To Work".

  • hopes to high
    author: brian colvard

    Im from Chicago, home of the stepping. This CD is so soulful im surprise that no major record label hasn't sign them. This CD puts you in the mood for stepping, driving the lakefront at night, or just relaxing with the one you love. Keep doing what your doing its paying off. Chicago hear you. Much love.

  • Hopes Too High
    author: Teresa

    This is a great cd! It is very soulful and the lead singer's voice is smooth and sexy. I'm a Chicago stepper and when I'm out dancing and one of the songs from the cd is being played, the dance floor is jammed packed- everytime. Everyone I know has been asking about these guys!

  • STRAIGHT UP NO CHASER !
    author: Stanley Richey

    These cats go down like 18 yr. old scotch. Every cut a eye opener and mind-bender. This is a ride on a magic carpet of masterful music making !

  • They are The Truth
    author: Karen Winckler

    Wow. This brother writes and sings from the heart and soul, and his band is givin' it up with him. I'm getting chills just thinking about what an incredible offering this is. I love this cd!. Buy it!

  • author: Beverly Randolph

    I heard this group during one of our Black History programs at work and was just mesmerized by the music and vocals. I listen to this cd daily, at work, home and in the car. The lyrics are positive and the music/vocals are soothing to the ear--the music really relaxes me. I've recommended this cd to all my friends; keep up the good work and may God continue to bless and keep you!!

  • Hopes to High
    author: Thelma Caudle

    This CD is wonderful. I absolutely love it and have played it so many times since it arrived. I love every song on it. I don't think I will ever tire of this CD. I can't remember when I have purchased a CD and enjoyed every song on the CD, but this CD is absolutely fabulous. Words can hardly describe my delight with this wonderful, smooth, and delightful melodies.

  • an absolute treat to the ears...
    author: anthony mcnutt aka fatcatthecreator

    my wife 11yr.old daughter and i absoloutly love this cd...also bro.we enjoyed you at druid hill park over the summer.I also purchased a copy for my parents.keep up the good work.

  • Love, Love, Love...
    author: Frances

    I absolutely LOVE this cd! This is destined to become a neo-soul classic. If you are looking for something to groove to, then you must buy this cd. It offers something for everyone :)

  • d.j. steppin wallace
    author: Wallace Holloway

    I AM NOT JUST A STEPPER, I'M A D.J. AND A MUSICAN. THIS CD IS CD OF THE YEAR IT REMIND ME OF THE OLD CHGO STEPPER MUSIC I LOVE YOUR WORK, AND WISE YOU LUKE ON YOUR NEW CD LOVE D.J. STEPPIN WALLACE

  • The Truth
    author: Rena B.

    This is one of the best cds that I have heard in a long time. My favorite selections are Hopes too high, Breathe Love and Time Stops. It is definitely a must have cd.

  • Awesome!
    author: Bobbie

    I am a stepper in the ATL. I started hearing "Maybe I'm Not The Man" at the sets. Then I read Marcell's interview on ChiStepper.com. Had to get the CD. Wow!!! Every song is awesome!! One of my favorites is Breathe Love. I repeat play it as I drive the 45 minutes to work.

  • I am absolutely estactic over the songs on this CD. I bought it because I heard
    author: Furaha

    I was captivatd by the song, "Maybe I'm Not the Man," and decided to find out who the artist was; initially, nobody knew because all I could remember of the lyrics were "move on. . .maybe we just got to move on." Once my research successfully resulted in having a copy of the CD, I was truly impressed by the profundity of the entire song, (I love being your man, but I can never be your god,/ And I apologize for every time you thought I was), the professionalism of the musicians, and the passion that marks each cut, especially, Comin' Home to You, Your Eyes, and the already mentioned Maybe I'm Not the Man.

  • classic material! Don't sleep on this album.
    author: Armand

    In Chicago we step and this CD will be a favorite in the steppers community. Maybe I'm not the man is lyrically and musically off the chain....

  • Great Music!!!!
    author: lady love, CC

    The CD is great!! The sound is electricfying combination of jazz, soul, r&b and true gospel. I wish great success to the crew.

  • Simply the Truth!
    author: L Robertson

    This group is rightfully titled the Truth! The lead vocalist has the magic of great soul singers of the past who borrowed from the blues, jazz, and gospel. The background vocals are perfect and never get in the way. The production is polished but not intrusive or slick, and the songs have substance. My biggest complaint is that more people do not know about Marcell and the Truth. Although I live in DC, I would have never heard of them if I didn't listen to a Baltimore station. It would be a shame if the focus on videogenic, vocal gymnasts blinds the music industry from promoting talent like this that stands out above the crowd! (I know videogenic is not a work, but it does represent artists with marginal talents who look good in videos.) Also, thanks CD Baby for being one of the few places making this good music available.

  • Homegrown,Hearty,Soul Food!
    author: Lilly B.

    The ingredients of BMORE'S homegrown soul band, mixed to its finest, leaves my taste buds wanting more! Fabulously worded, Musically moving, and Truthfully Soul! We KNOCK to hear the Truth, Marcel...keep on ANSWERING!

  • There live show is even better than this awesome album
    author: Vicki

    Everyone is talking about the album and rightfully so this album is going to keep gaining momentum its just so real and pure, but its their live performance I fell in love with - it felt like I went to a club and church at the same time. The band is great and that Marcell is so so much more than a singer, He is a natural leader, maybe the next great one. He brings pride & hope to his people, matter fact all of us. I cant wait for album two. My God! Keep it up guys and dont LOSE what you have, we need it!

  • Honor where its Due!
    author: Fellow Artist in this madness called the Music Bizz

    I unerstand why many folk in the ATL are calling this the album of the year. The is more than music its Art. Some folks would sell their souls to be able to deliver Soul Music like this to the people. I simply want to hear whats next. I have a challenge guys can you do it again and again. Cause we sure could use it. You calling me to dig deep, thx. Marcell your lyrics man, no words.

  • Honor where its Due!
    author: Fellow Artist in this madness called the Music Bizz

    I unerstand why many folk in the ATL are calling this the album of the year. The is more than music its Art. Some folks would sell their souls to be able to deliver Soul Music like this to the people. I simply want to hear whats next. I have a challenge guys can you do it again and again. Cause we sure could use it. You calling me to dig deep, thx. Marcell your lyrics man, no words.

  • There live show is even better than this awesome album
    author: Vicki

    Everyone is talking about the album and rightfully so this album is going to keep gaining momentum its just so real and pure, but its their live performance I fell in love with - it felt like I went to a club and church at the same time. The band is great and that Marcell is so so much more than a singer, He is a natural leader, maybe the next great one. He brings pride & hope to his people, matter fact all of us. I cant wait for album two. My God! Keep it up guys and dont LOSE what you have, we need it!

  • This is the TRUTH
    author: VMAN via BRONX

    I live 20 minutes from BMORE and it is a shame that I am just finding out about this CD! I belong to an international loop and I am going to BLOW this cd up!

  • author: tony , liverpool

    simply music at its best ,soul redefined ,love the album

  • author: Asier

    Great album. Very good vibes from it.

  • author: Debbie (Neavousoundz in NY)

    Ish mentioned these guys to me. I bought the album and have been a fan now for weeks. I've been searching and reading everything about these guys. Nothing but inspiring & positive things. Honestly listening to them I feel I am a part of history in the making, honestly. This music is brilliant

  • author: Tracey Price

    This album is perfect for us steppers here in Chicago.

  • Now this is how you make music
    author: Justin Pachoe

    I'm not that poetic or that good with words but man!!! I can't stop listening to this album. You guys really did a great job, this is just great. It's so good to hear real music again so good. When are you coming to Europe? My favorite songs are Evil Woman & Breath Love

  • Great soul music!

    Can't wait to see you guys again in NY. Getting 2 copies for friends. You did a amazing job at Frank's. We were not ready. Good luck and thx for such great music. I'll see you at SOB's.

  • very nice....favorite song is HOPE TOO HIGH

  • Sounds Great!!!
    author: Tim Crouss (from Soundgarden)

    You guys rock!!! Seriously rock. This is some pure uncut stuff. I'm digg'n this album. See you guys at Sonar

  • OMG! - Fan for Life
    author: Donald Chambers

    I have listen to this album over and over. I am forever a fan. OMG this musc is wonderful. They Don't Know is my new anthem. I love you guys. How do you rate this album? You are my new favorite. Marcell is the Ultimate. His voice has so much depth and color and his range is crazy. I can go on and on - great job!!!

  • Yeah!!!
    author: Sabien Yusef a Soultracks junkie

    This what I'm talking about. This is SOUL music. Good work man. Look forward to hearing you soon in NY.

  • This is Music is for everyone!
    author: Maddie Henderson

    My grandson is 17 yrs old and he loves Soul music. He bruoght this album to my house during Christmas and he just got it back from me so I came on here to buy my own. I had to write something. Good music is good music. Children and adults love good music. My favorite two favorites is Hopes Too High & time stops.

  • This cd will touch your soul!!!
    author: Darius Moore

    This cd continues to stay in my rotation, it helped me through some rough times especially the songs Breath Love, Cold Rain, They Don't Know and Never Leave You Lonely! I haven't had a chance to hear these guys live, but I live in Jersey and will catch your Urban Soul tour in NYC or Philly! This is by far the best soul cd of 2007!

  • Baltimore is back Baby!!!
    author: Sylvia

    If you like the cd you have to see this man live. Marcell I saw you guys in Fox 45 and at Eubie Blake, you all were great Thursday morning. I went out and bought the cd the same day. I am so proud to say you are from B-more baby!!! I can see you gonna put us back on the map. Keep up the good work.

  • Big Man is Bringing Sexy Back!!!
    author: Belinda T. Richardson

    I love it. I love it!!! I was missing all the big sexy men that's gone now (Luther, Gerald, Barry etc...) but Marcell will do just fine. A sexy strong brother that can really sing and write - Hmmm. This music is grown & sexy too. ATL is where you need to be next. I'll be looking for you all esp. Marcell (smile)

  • Good stuff
    author: James

    I can't write as good as all these people man but I had to say great job man. As a musician it feels good to hear that someone is still doing the good stuff. You guys stay focus and you will go far. You inspire me to build a band now, I'm jealous, lol.

  • One word - Wow!
    author: Patti Strouss

    Lyrically complete, musically taseful and powerful, vocally brilliant. I am crying, his voice is so beautiful,so rich, so smooth and so full. "Maybe I'm not the Man" & "Coming Home to You." I haven't heard a writer this good in years. This Is Timeless Stuff. Marcell & the Truth, we love in England. Please come soon.

  • A True Fan here
    author: Martin Curtis

    Finally a Man writing as a Man, not just trying manipulate women with fantasies. As a brother I have to say, I've been so disappointed with our people musically. I'm sorry I have to say it. We started the concept of bearing or baring (whatever) our souls. Now we just want to be heard at any cost, but this is Black music family, matter fact this is good "Human music". That whatever on the radio now is not Black music. But this is the stuff that help set us free, truth & honesty. Somebody need to bring that brother to Texas and New Orleans. We will be waiting. Bought me 2 copies. A true fan here.

  • Had to get it!
    author: Ekayani

    How many times could I listen to the two minute soundclips here or the one track of TIME STOPS on myspace? I've probably set the record! LOL! Can't get enough so I have bought not one but two copies ! One to share with someone who is going to be very lucky! Too good to keep it to myself! The depth of Marcel's voice swims in Peabo Bryson and that wonderful spiritual quality real "soul" music has as the term didn't come from no where! All the colors he has! The band has a light touch. Everything is in harmony. I'd say this album is perfect. Ready for lift off!

  • How old is this Man?
    author: Linda & Mark Goldstein

    You know how hard it is to make a simple life, that we make complicated, sound simple. I am a teacher and poet and I love words. I feel like I know this man. I love his transparency. My husband and I are listening to how honest and simple this man makes life feel. This is what soul music should feel like - Truth. Not to mention Marcell's voice. My huband is buying his own cd for his car,lol (This is seriuos. He never buys music). Great Buy!!!

  • Essential .. HOPES TOO HIGH is THE soul record of 2007 so far.
    author: ANDY LOTHIAN - STARPOINTRADIO.COM

    Absolutely essential .. HOPES TOO HIGH is THE soul record of 2007 so far.

  • Man!!! Finally some grown folks music, real music, good music with No Cheating
    author: Charles Scott

    Man I bought this CD in New York from a cat named Ish. My friend told me these cats were the truth of Soul music. She was not lying. Lawd have mercy - who writes & sings like this anymore. This stuff is Timeless. I have burned a whole in this CD after 3 weeks. Who gets to play an album all the way through anymore. I know folks are comparing Marcell to David Peaston but to me he sounds like Luther, Donny Hatahway, and Stevie all rolled up into one. This boy can SANG for real. No cheats with these guys just real music. Finally some young folks with something to say. And where in the world did they find these young musicians they gotta have some old souls. If these boys don't become Icons it would be a shame to this business.

  • Feel Good Music
    author: Chris

    This is some feel good music. A little something to dance to, a little something to chill with. Very good alot of steppers. Get it if you don't have it.

  • Definitely A Spring Fever/Summertime Jam Album!!!!
    author: Jo-Anne Cheatom

    I have to say that I am surprised that my CD is still in good working condition. I've been playing Marcell and the Truth's CD constantly since I bought it about three months ago. It's OFF DA CHAIN!!! Track 3 is my favorite! Now that spring is coming and I'm feelin' all good, I bump it in my Jeep and passersby be getting their groove on. Trust me...you'll LOVE this CD!! Marcell and the Truth....keep bringin' the truth baby!!!

  • love it!!
    author: Adrian

    their music has a classic sound to it...I saw them perform live and they sound exactly same in person as they do when you play their cd. If you like true soul music with real lyrics that reflect everyday life...give Hopes Too High a listen

  • GREAT
    author: kathy knox

    This was one of the best cds i've heard in long time. i recommend this to all those who love the Tempations style, cause these guys are the bomb....lol....

  • author: goggle

    This is one of the best cd's I have heard in a long time.I loved it the first time I heard it. I wanted it for myself. Yes Marcell does sound like David Peston I had to look hard for this CD know one had it.

  • Off the Hook!
    author: Deirdre

    I'm a die-hard fan of "soul" music.... music that both feeds and satisfies the soul. This album does just that. The lyrics are intelligent, the band is smooth and the vocalist is awesome. I HIGHLY recommend the album and I wish Marcell & the Truth all the best. They've earned it!

  • REAL SOUL MUSIC
    author: EUGESOUL

    This album is fantastic.A little fusion of every kind of black music: GOSPEL , SOUL , BLUES and JAZZ. Marcell is a great male vocalist and his band is so jazzy and soulful.I recommend this cd to the real soul music lovers.

  • The absolute truth!!!!!
    author: Jawanna

    I can't say enough about this cd. The music and the words are so captivating, that I often get lost in the songs. I am working hard to get him to perform in my city, and I can't wait for the day.

  • Finally something fresh
    author: Victor Walters

    It's about time something comes along that doesn't too much remind you of something and/or someone else. Hope Too High is that kind of CD, exploring new musical interpretions of the same ole story. Play the CD, it gets better as it goes along the fourteen tracks.

  • author: S.M.A.

    If you need something to feed your soul ..... simply, listen to this CD. The lyrics are simple yet so true. It's all about keeping life simple and living life to the fullest each and every day.

  • The Truth Shall Set You Free...
    author: Eva Scroggins

    Each and every song on this cd has the ability to draw out the listener's deepest emotions. The melodies are smooth, with cardinal rhythms, and piercing lyrics. Not only will you be able to relate to the singer's sincere, undisquised pains and passions... you'll get wrapped up in them.

  • this is the truth
    author: Tameika Rease

    Marcell and the Truth is amazing. The music is smooth, and the lyrics are mindcandy. It is hard to find artist now who are positive, energetic and thoughtful. This album is truly refreshing and different. Marcell is like a male India Arie. I cant wait to hear more from this band!!!!

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