When Cat's away, Yusuf will play

After 33 years in the shadows, a familiar voice with a not so familiar name got on stage in Los Angeles Monday night to play for an invitation-only crowd. The name Yusuf Islam does not spark too many of our star radars, and we certainly wouldn’t expect it to draw the likes of Colin Ferrell, Michelle Branch and Josh Groban. However, when the first few chords of “Peace Train” join with that raspy familiar voice, Yusuf’s new name can no longer disguise the unmistakable Cat Stevens hiding right underneath. Yusuf Islam, better known by us all as Cat Stevens, converted to Islam in the 70’s and has since left behind both his old name and his music career (an utter shame to us fans). However, Islam has recently come out of hibernation and burst back into the music scene. On May 9, 2009, Islam came out with his first album (Roadsinger) since 2006. Islam has made the talk show rounds promoting his new album, a big change from his last album, the very low-profile An Other Cup. Islam has also announced a world tour to promote his new album. So, although Cat Stevens may be no more, fans can breathe a little easier knowing his music is still very much alive.

-Laurie Moot

Currently Listening to: "The Way It Is," by Nicole Atkins

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