Infinite Possibilities - Amel Larrieux (2000)

The so-called Soulquarian movement rejuvenated soul music around the turn of the 21st century and gave birth to huge careers and huge albums.

Larrieux wasn’t one of those big commercial winners, but this is an excellent example of the kind of music that was everywhere in the New York area around then. Her voice is crystalline and expressive, and you want to go along wherever she takes you. After a long trend of pop-style hit-making in soul, we started to get dedicated bands that were definitely soul bands and not just a backing track.

The record grew on me as I went through the record. Not to say it doesn’t start out well, but the first few tracks feel a bit staid and mechanical. It’s not til later on when you start to hear the music relax into a groove. That’s when Larrieux’s vocals really start to shine.

Tracks I Liked

Get Up - a playful opener starts us out with plenty of vocal personality

Even If - a great and hopeful tune

Infinite Possibilities - the title track is a smooth groove stunner