Review
Lemar: The Hits
6.1
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UK release date 08.03.2010
Eight years, and four albums after he first came to attention on the BBC’s ‘Fame Academy’ Lemar Obika has released his first greatest hits album.
It is easy to dismiss stars who appear on Talent shows, but in this case, it is a mistake. Instead of tabloid fame and scandal, Lemar has used his soulful vocals and clear songwriting ability to build a successful and acclaimed career. There are hits from his early days, such as ‘Dance (with U)’ and ‘50/50’ as well as material from later on, such as the collections closer ‘What about Love?’ which features current talent show favourites JLS.
His vocals owe something to singers such as Al Green, and Otis Redding, particularly in songs such as ‘If there’s any Justice’ or ‘It’s not that easy’. There are three new songs as well, with 'Counting The Days,’ ‘You Don’t Love Me, and the collaboration (as previously mentioned) with JLS, which could feature in the charts at some point. As a live performer, and a winner of two Brit award and four Mobo awards this collection does not signal the end of a career, it is more of a reflection on the work of an artist who has escaped his roots and has a strong voice and identity of his own.
Words BEN MACNAIR
