On their annual holiday concert tour, The Blenders got the idea for a different kind of recording than they had done in their 16 years together, of music so universal that it could be performed for any audience at any time of the year. It would be a tribute album, not Christmas music, and not a cappella. 10 songs based on a simple criteria: they had to be soulful, songs that speak to the heart, songs with messages of hope: "People Get Ready," compassion­"Takin' It to the Streets," support­"Lean On Me," and love­"Put A Little Love in Your Heart," "Signed, Sealed, Delivered," "How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)," "Love Train" and "Love the One You're With." They had to do a couple of songs, "What You Won't Do for Love" and "29 Ways," just because they feel so good. Admittedly, it's not easy getting used to an accompanied Blenders album, but the voices, harmony and soul we've loved in these Sweeps champs is as strong as ever, the tunes are great, and "Songs" is another Blenders winner.