Between the Spirit & the Flesh

Ari Gold's latest full-length album "Between the Spirit & the Flesh" does put you up close with the artist in a way that previous releases hadn't even begun to explore. Sir Ari as he would prefer you address him now takes you on the equivalent of a "first date." The first single "Make My Body Rock" certainly has that bump and grind intensity that is reminiscent of a chance encounter on the dance floor with a hot boy. "Sweet Lust" Gold emotes and we know exactly where this song is going next. Building wildly with its techno-electronic beat, it's a far departure from anything that Ari has done in the past. When we boldly move into the more club-friendly "Play My F**Kn Record," Ari demands the respect he's long deserved as both a performer and also as an appropriately positioned proponent of gay civil rights - before there was Gaga, Ari Gold was always proving he was born this way. On this "date" you'll sidle up to the bar for a serenade on the track "My Favorite Religion," the closest thing to a ballad on the entire offering, and swap a war story or two with "Over The Internet" - the song's story of internet dating which is easily relatable.

Fans have much to rejoice in "Between the Spirit & the Flesh." It's not necessarily a far departure from the familiar musical styling of Ari Gold which is important, (especially if you want to spend more than just one night with him) but it's the most authentic he's ever presented himself with his music. Maybe that's because he doesn't have anything to prove anymore. His genuine excitement from track to track makes him all the more attractive. "Out Dancing" which features collaborations with Adam Joseph & Kelly King is a reminder of the r&b/dance groove that he's always capitalized on - but more a joyous radio-friendly summer song you haven't heard before. "Stay In This" continues the club-revolution, which means you're going to sweat it out a little longer on the dance floor before thinking of turning this into a one-night stand.

"Sparkle" gives you an opportunity to get down a little longer and steal a kiss. Overall "Between the Spirit & the Flesh" may be the most appropriately named album of his career. This is Ari Gold -- and 'between the spirit and the flesh' is a talented evolution of an artist who continues to reinvent himself and live the expectation of gay pop stars - he's the real deal and maybe not just a one-night thing after all. After walking home with "New York Attitude" ringing in your ears, you'll be happy you took his number and that you'll get to spend a little more time getting to know him. Scratch the surface and explore what's beneath - Sir Ari Gold is waiting for your call.