1.Goin' Out (featuring Pharrell and Pusha T) 2.Again 3.I don't Need It 4.Stop N Go 5.Mesmerized 6.Tru Love 7.Jealous 8.Ever Wonder (featuring Mario Winans) 9.Catching Feelings 10.Get Over You 11.Until You Came 12.Lucky Day 13.Hope (Twista featuring Faith Evans)
Faith Evans has successfully achieved what no other female R&B artist of 2005 has and that was to create an album that knows where it is and is comfortable with the vibe it's sending out.
With a barrage of Indistinguishable R&B starlets littering the charts with their over-promoted sell out singles Faith strays and stays true to her roots and puts out a decent, honest record that I reckon will stand the test of time.
With its smooth melodies and sensual vocals "The First Lady" is Faith's best effort to date. Finally we are privilaged to experience an album that was
decades in the making.
There is a personal touch to this album that her previous efforts lacked. Faith is now feeling better and looking better than ever and it really shows.
Seemingly unaffected by the shift in the R&B market of today Faith settles for smooth yet slick. Faith seems aware she's a little older and having gone through such tumultuous times has gone for the classic feel.
What really sells this album is the fact that it's not reinventing Faith's career simply furthering it. With Monica, Brandy, Amerie to name a few realising sexy sells they've gone and done their own thing but Faith has kept her cool and kept it true. Faith keeps her figure wrapped up on the album cover and this is unusual but definately welcomed.
Lyrically it's sweet and unassuming. Faith describes hard times and new love [all true as well] along with the usual love lost and broken hearts. Not groundbreaking but don't let that bother you.
"Goin' Out" is a hot song that has a great beat. Faith flexes her vocals and establishes herself as the first lady. Typical chart topper but infectious. Perhaps the chorus could've done with a little more inspiration.
"Again" is the lead single and a fine tune to cruise along to. It tells of Faith's struggles and addictions whilst remaining positive and strong. Bit of an old-school flavour - a definate contender for the best song on the album.
"I Don't Need It" and "Stop N Go" have a unique feel that translates well. Stong tracks that have Faith relaxing and just singing her heart out. Cool, calm and well polished Faith does a good job on potential filler material.
"Mesmerized" and "Tru Love" are two other singles released from this album. Both songs have clear definition and are rounded and complete. Lyrics are fresh and the songs themselves are obvious choices for singles because of their individuality. "Mesmerized" is a bare soul track that hits us with a hot beat that instantly grabs you. Funky and fresh!
"Tru Love" in contrast is sensual, tender expression of Faith's feelings and emotions towards her family. Sweet and endearing this connected with me and I got just that little bit closer to her - which rarely happens in modern R&B. Beautiful!
Then the album takes a turn - in a new direction. The second half of the album is lazy afternoon territory. It's up to you as to whether they are filler tracks but my guess is they are easy listening for the older audience - taking it away from the more youth-orientated first half. None of that crunk'n'b this is fluid soul with Faith doing her best to recreate those sunny days that are all too rare. Lovely and cool! Perhaps my only critiscism is the fact that they can be a litle bland at times - unfortunately skipping every now and again to get to my favourite track on the album. But what do I know - I'm young.
"Hope" is supposed to inspire but don't let that put you off. It's a solid effort from Twista, who's "alright" i guess. Faith only does her thing in the chorus but nonetheless she rocks! Lyrically...not for me but the melody is great and I'm always putting it on repeat.
I recommend it - even for those who regard modern day R&B to be pretty much redundant - it's a cut that's hot. Try something a little different and you might just be surprised.
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