Sean Anderson - 6/29/2010

A truly classic album from the legendary Stevie Wonder, who recently appeared at Glastonbury in fine form, 'Songs in the Key of Life' is exactly what it says on the tin.

From the first track, Wonder leads you through a musical journey of life, featuring love, religion, simple pleasures and social injustice. Some tracks will sadden you such as the introspective 'Village Ghetto Land' with its beautiful string melody and others such as 'Sir Duke' and 'I Wish' will get anyone up on a dance floor, with the former a tribute to groundbreaking black music and the latter an insight into Stevie Wonder's background; there is a real sense of optimism here and making the most of life. However, one of my favourites on the first part of the album is 'Knocks Me Off My Feet' because of its intimacy and the charming way in which the chords build up in the chorus.

The range of styles across the album continues to impress, including the unique and slightly sinister sound of 'Pastime Paradise', which was later adapted to 'Gangsters' Paradise'.

While this album undoubtedly has its imperfections as do most (including perhaps slightly awkward lyrics in places if one really wants to nit-pick), its beauty lies in its honest sentiments. A listen to this album captivates the imagination well and is a rewarding experience.