Just in time for holiday giving there is a wealth of releases that will continue to give for years to come. Among them is STEVIE WONDER'S triumphant A Time To Love (Motown), his first new recording in 10 years. From the first song, "If Your Love Cannot Be Moved" (with Kim Burrell), the music maestro shows that he still has the magic for making enjoyable, memorable music.
Stevie and his harmonica shine on "Sweetest Somebody I Know." Then there's the percolating "My Love Is On Fire," showcasing Hubert Laws on flute, "A Time To Love" (with India.Arie), and "How Will I Know" and "Positivity," both featuring daughter Aisha Morris. It is difficult to determine which is the favorite. That also holds true for EARTH, WIND & FIRE's greatly anticipated Illumination (Sanctuary). The set kicks off with "Lovely People" featuring Will.i.am, followed by the melodious Jimmy Jam/Terry Lewis-produced "Pure Gold," on which Maurice White vocals star. Supermellow "Show Me the Way" features Raphael Saadiq, while Kelly Rowland, Big Boi and Sleepy Brown lend vocals to the dance jam "This Is How I Feel." Sure to get you into the holiday spirit is JEFF MAJORS' Sacred Chapter 6 (Music One/Epic), on which the master harpist continues to sooth and enthrall with his ethereal rhythms. Vocalists featured on this 12-song set are Kelly Price on "God's Gift," Sallee on"Gold-Son," Gospel Gangstaz on "Mercy," Walter Sigler on "Psalms 99," and Dottie Peoples on "Precious Memories."