Music reviews. CD reviews. Critically hip!

There are singers that just know how to make it happen. They make you feel like you are right in the song. Natalie Cole definitely has that talent. Her strong voice bursts with energy and feeling. There are also songs that just work. They are catchy and beautiful at the same time. The songs that Cole sings fit that category most always. Peppered with funk, soul, and gospel, her songs have you grooving in your seat. Everything is so carefully put together. From the close harmonies and interesting rhythms, Cole’s music is well written and well produced. The combination of a great artist and great songs is why Raven Records has released two of Natalie Cole's albums from three decades ago.

The new compilation of songs from Natalie Cole's repertoire is a re-release of the albums Inseparable, from 1975, and Unpredictable, from1977, together on one disc. This album is a combination of classic songs with ones that were forgotten. Many of these songs were very popular when they were originally released and have stayed classics. For instance, we have all heard This Will Be (An Everlasting Love). However, I personally had never heard several beautiful and fun songs before since I wasn't alive at the time they were released. But, surely hearing the songs that I had never heard might be uncovering nostalgic beats for some.

This combination of two albums is a nice treat especially because the second of the two albums was not released in CD form until now. Cole has already released a greatest hits CD but these two albums capture an era of passionate ballads and funky tunes from one time. I would definitely recommend this album for those who miss this era and those who missed it too. Whether these are new or old tunes to your ears, they are classic listening material.