R.E.D.
This type of album is certainly different from any other post musically I’ve done for iHipHop, but not out of the element of music that I enjoy. So we (me and Prespective) figured you probably like it as well. For those of you who are not familiar with Corinne Bailey Rae, she is a songstress with an eclectic sound – a mix of pop/soul/R&B in an unassuming yet overwhelming package. She eased into the scene in 2006 and exploded with a number one album and the industry in a frenzy. Rae faded from the scene after her husband died of an overdose almost two years ago and has now emerged with her new album titled “The Sea”. It has elements you would expect from an artist emerging out of her situation, but it’s not overrun with deep, emotional ballads. Even the song dedicated to her late husband “Are You Here” isn’t a straight tear-jerker, but more of an ode to their relationship.
There is nothing on “The Sea” close to having you shaking your ass in the club. Songs like “Closer“ fit the true spirit of the album – a bluesy, mid-tempo love song without a 16-bar verse from your hottest rapper. Standouts like “I’d Do It All Again” and “Feels Like the First Time” really show her talent and range. The only rap-type of collaboration is the rock-tinged “The Blackest Lily” featuring ?uestlove.
This album for those of us who listen to hip-hop 90-95% of the time is a refreshing change of pace. It’s a pleasant change to hear someone bare their soul with true feeling – and can sing. So, the next time you are jamming some Waka Flocka, think of “The Sea” and inject something peaceful and soulful into your iPod. To preview more songs off the album and/or to buy it got to her website (Click HERE).
Rating: 3.5/5
