It seems like the thing to do these days for DJs itching to release a compliation is release a two cd set; one being peak hour and the other more underground. Abel did it, Peter does it, but few have done it as well as the recent release from circuit spinner Manny Lehman. Freedom is a balls-to-the-wall set of solid energy packed into 160 minutes. Lehman manages to plant you dead center on the dance floor at just the right moment as he weaves track after track of soaring vocals and hard-hitting beats.
CD One is labeled the "Big Room Session," as CD Two is titled the "Tribal Session." The first set starts off with three back-to-back anthems. As many of the readers know, anthems are fun, but I prefer them in sporadic doses. Not to fear, Manny is quick to switch to something a little harder for a more experienced ear. Lisa Hunt's Blue Room Mix for her stellar track, This Joint is Jumpin, Jamie J Sanchez's Stroke, and B More Shake by Afrika Bambaataa are all present and accounted for.
The "Tribal Session" CD is what I was really dying to hear. Lehman included some real gems here including the opening track he produced, Freedom by Flava. The perfect song to kick off the second CD with, this is a fierce one you won't wanna pass up. Even bigger names grace this set: Ralphi Rosario, Friburn & Urik, Victor Calderone, Deborah Cooper, Peter Presta, and Danny "Buddah" Morales! Talk about hot!!!
This is where the action is folks. If you were looking for that next great CD - you found it. Rarely does a mixed set capture the true energy of a crowded dance floor but somehow Manny Lehman, with his years of experience, has given birth to a wonderful compilation of sizzling tribal beats and unforgettable vocals.
