I bought this EWF gem last year and I'm enjoying it. They sound really updated, like they are a new group. I love all of the songs on this one. I'm really looking forward for their new album to be released probably this year. Has anyone checked out this album yet?

'The Promise' is excellent.It's a strong collection of beautiful songs that are warm,inviting and joyful.The best thing is,they don't spend alot of time trying to adapt to current trends.There are no guest rappers,no embarassing hip-hop beats,no silly "Mr.Biggs"-styled alter egos (lol)....in fact,much of the album sounds totally retro,as if it was recorded in the late 70s.The first single "All In The Way" is classic EW&F....a catchy,horn-driven groove that is reminiscent of some of their best singles.It even features The Emotions on background vocals,just like in the old days.The wonderful ballad "Where Do We Go From Here" actually was recorded in the 70s...1978,to be exact.It's an outtake from their landmark 'I Am' album.The swirling,intoxicating,Latin-flavored "Never" has alot in common with their 1978 hit "Fantasy".The final track "Dirty" is another outtake from 'I Am'.It's a fiery funk workout.

The more "modern" sounding tracks are superb too.In a perfect world,the second single "Hold Me"(which was nominated for a Grammy) would have been a Top 10 R&B smash."Suppose You Like Me" is a vibrant collaboration with ?uestlove."Wonderland",featuring Angie Stone,is simply heavenly.You feel as if you're floating on a cloud when you listen to it.

There isn't alot of uptempo stuff here.This is mostly a Quiet Storm affair.Nothing wrong with that,because nobody can create slow jams like EW&F.This album is like a warm blanket on a cold winter day....soft and comforting.