Ledisi: No Longer Lost, Forever Found l review by Marvina S.

I should have done this review when this CD first came out in August 2007. Better now than never. By now, most of you are probably familiar with Ledisi's first single "Alright." Born in the BIG EASY, her name means "to bring forth" in Nigerian. Ledisi Anibade Young is a two time Grammy nominee for her third CD "LOST and FOUND" on the Verve label.

Ms. Young is not some overnight artist. She began singing with the New Orleans Symphony Orchestra when she was eight years old. Sister-girl studied Opera and Piano at UC Berkley and was also nominated for a Shelly award in a local rendition of The Wiz. I first heard Ledisi on Raphael Saddiq's "Live at the House of Blues" cd back in 2003. She was featured on his song "Different Times." When I first heard her then I was like whomever this sister is, she is good. Her voice has a strong presence to pull you in. "Alright" has soared to the top of the charts. This song has a very inspiring message to it. That clearly says; no matter what life brings your way, know that it will be "Alright." From the rain making her sad or the fact she wishes she had money to pay her bills and not being able to afford that dress on sale, we all can relate to this song.

Another song I am truly digging is "Best Friend". On this track she is confessing her love for her best friend which has a beautiful flow to it. The title track "Lost and Found (Find Me)" has a Phyllis Hyman touch to it. This is one of those songs that comes straight from the heart. The melody is beautiful as well as the lyrics of wanting someone to find her and take her out of the pain of being alone. I am not saying the song is depressing but it is a nice jazzy song. My favorite song on here I must say is "In the Morning." "Upside Down" is fierce with the guitar funk.

To be honest, I really love all 16 tracks but these are the ones I sit at work or driving listening to over and over. Just don't take my ears for it, go out and buy it @ Spin City, www.cdbaby.com or visit her myspace page at www.myspace.com/ledisi

-Marvina S.
vina@neosoulville.com