Sly Joe & the Smooth Operators
"Surrounded by the Heart"
(reviewed by Sarah Seehafer, WISCONSIN SONGWRITERS REVIVAL)

I just hope you'll trust me when I say- if you're supporting local music in one of the purest forms (original), then you need a copy of this record. You need it for yourself and anyone you know that likes music. So, pretty much everyone that is worth talking to. What? Just sayin'.

I kept my iTunes on repeat while listening to, "Surrounded by the Heart". I knew I wanted to get a better feel for it than just one spin around. I found myself being perfectly content to hearing songs over and over again as I took notes. I began noticing things I didn't hear the first time. Like the small but great role of the violin in "A Place in the Sun". Or the kazoo solo in "Another Song for You". And a harmonica? Always a good touch.
I find that the little things get noticed more on a great record. I'm a big fan of the creativity that was used.

I truly did enjoy each song for one reason or another, but like a little kid asking their mother which sibling she loved the best, the honest answer is that I enjoyed them all for different reasons and one reason that remained the same. That reason? I love that the band just sounds so smooth together. Nothing sounds forced (don't ask me to explain). It's a cohesive melodic journey through the soul.

But if I had to be the mom that picked favorites, I'd have to say that if I didn't have the coin-age to buy the entire album off of iTunes, I would most certainly buy these tracks: "Surrounded by the Heart" which shows a jazzy side with an original twist- Sly's powerful voice, and the versatility of the band. "Brand New Walking Shoes" because I literally played it over and over again. It's the perfect summer song.. or really, any day with sun or a smile. "The Ins & Outs" for its ability to be a complete comfort song. The song that everyone can relate to and say, "Yeah, I've been there." I'd also highly suggest "Melody", and I refuse to say why, because this is a trust thing between you and I. You just need to trust me with this.

And if you have a daughter, or want to make a mix for your parents and make them tear up a bit, add "You're Gonna Change the World". I totally cried. Maybe it's because the founder of WSR just had a brand new baby girl this week, or maybe it's because I just admire the band for adding a track like this. It's not sappy- it's just a good tune with a good message: Love.

I was VERY curious to hear "Back to You" because I was afraid it was a cover of a John Mayer song, but alas, it was not. I might sound drunk for saying this, but this song was like a mix between Tom Petty and Jack Johnson (in the best way possible!). It was also almost reminiscent of Alexi Murdoch's "Orange Sky" in parts. I found that to be a good thing, though. They can touch on other artists or songs, yet they keep it original. Very similar feelings toward, "Sunny Sunday". Very Stevie Wonder-like. I think that song in particular shows off how truly smooth Sly Joe's voice is.

There are some great little surprises on this record that I really haven't heard with other bands before. I don't want to give it ALL away, but it's pretty rad.

Overall, Sly Joe & The Smooth Operators, "Surrounded by the Heart" was worth every penny. I can't wait to check them out live, because if they are half as good live as they are in my headphones- we're all in for a great time!

You're so smooooth,
Sarah