Manifestation

Released digitally in 2019, and reissued (digitally and physically) five years later with six previously unreleased bonus tracks, Manifestation is Maurice Whites fully authorized second solo album. It puts together material the Earth, Wind & Fire leader made over the course of three decades with Preston Glass -- a creative partnership that began in 1987 with EWFs number one R&B hit "System of Survival." The somewhat Prince-ly funk of "Panic Button" appeared on Glass 2008 album Music as Medicine, but otherwise, Manifestation was all-new when it was first issued. Its unmistakably pieced together with some songs bearing new jack swing era-style productions, while others evoke late-70s EWF (in terms of structure) with more contemporary touches. Unsurprisingly, this is all upbeat, feel-good R&B that relates to romance and wisdom with unflagging positivity. At its best, the album is as enjoyable as any of the 90s and 2000s EWF albums made with Whites direct involvement. Theres even a kalimba workout. ~ Andy Kellman