Artist: Curtis Mayfield Album: New World Order

Year: 1996
Duration: 0:0-1

A Critical Review of Curtis Mayfield’s Album New World Order

Curtis Mayfield was a legendary American soul singer, songwriter and guitarist. His 1996 album, New World Order, was his last before he passed away in 1999. The album was released by Warner Bros Records and was highly anticipated by fans of Mayfield’s music. With elements of soul, funk, and R&B, New World Order was a positive reflection of Mayfield's evolution as an artist. In this review, we’ll dive deep into the album, discuss the history of Curtis Mayfield, the music genre of the album, the best songs, the most innovative parts of the album and my personal critic to the album.

Curtis Mayfield’s music career started in the late 1950s with The Impressions, which he co-founded. The group went on to produce some of the most memorable soul hits in the 60s, including People Get Ready and Keep On Pushing. With his solo career, Mayfield gained critical acclaim for his socially conscious lyrics and his soulful guitar playing.

The Album “New World Order” incorporates elements of various genres, including soul, funk, and R&B. Mayfield's lyricism explores themes of change and hope amid social injustice faced by the Black community. The album also brings an electrifying new sound to his discography.

One of the standout tracks of the album is Back to Living Again, which features a seamless fusion of soul, R&B, and funk. The song incorporates a horn section, groovy guitar riffs, and vibrant percussion. The heartfelt vocals convey optimism in the face of adversity. Another track, The Got Dang Song, is an upbeat, funk-driven tribute to all that’s positive in the world, with catchy hooks and a dance-worthy beat.

The album's most innovative part is the electronics incorporated into the rhythm section. Mayfield shows a willingness to experiment in his music while still maintaining his soulful roots. The title track New World Order exemplifies this with its use of electronic beats, synthesizers, and stadium-ready rock guitars in a politically charged anthemic sound.

As for my personal critic of the album, New World Order doesn't quite have the consistent quality or power of some of Mayfield's earlier works, such as 'Superfly' or 'Curtis.' While the album is solid and engaging, it doesn't quite lend itself to repeated listens or the same level of impact as his earlier work. Nevertheless, the album is still an important milestone in Curtis Mayfield's prolific music career

Curtis Mayfield’s New World Order showcases an evolution in his sound, with elements of electronic dance music and rock n roll merged with his signature soulful delivery and socially conscious lyrics. Even if it doesn't quite live up to his past work, it still includes some standout songs that are worth listening to. Mayfield's spirit and legacy will continue to influence and inspire future generations of musicians and music fans.

Curtis Mayfield’s New World Order showcases an evolution in his sound, with elements of electronic dance music and rock n roll merged with his signature soulful delivery and socially conscious lyrics. Even if it doesn't quite live up to his past work, it still includes some standout songs that are worth listening to. Mayfield's spirit and legacy will continue to influence and inspire future generations of musicians and music fans.