Why did I review the album? I’ve never listened to a Toni Braxton or Babyface album, so I
thought I’d try something new
Did I like it? Yes
Will I listen again? Yes
Something tells me I should like
this album more than I did. Braxton voice is simply one of the most beautiful I’ve
ever heard. She can manipulate her voice at any range and does so without
effort. But she has enough experience to fall back to suit her partner and the atmosphere
of the song on most duets. Babyface does a good job supporting Braxton and
chooses tones that highlight his strengths. Also the beats range from a 70’s disco throwback
to typical 80’s beats. They are very relaxing and enjoyable.
So, Why the low score? Well, two
problems. The track listing doesn’t work for me. I think it was motivated by an
attempt to mirror the up and down nature of a relationship, but it made the
album hard to follow and broke the rhythm of the cd.
Secondly, although the music is great to
listen to, I don’t think the artist connected with the material in most cases.
It felt as though someone gave them lyrics and said “sing this please.” Because
they are professional singers, it sounds great, but I didn't feel the emotion I’d
expect from the emotionally charged lyrics and subject matter.
Also, there is NO variety. Since the name of
the album is Love, Marriage and Divorce, I figured a large majority of the
album would be about that subject, however I thought it would shift in a few
different direction keeping relationships as the main focus, but it did not.
Still I like the album. Braton's beautiful voice
and the relaxing beats are enough to carry the album.
Anyone that’s been through a divorce will relate
to this album, but it will likely garner a mixed reaction from everyone else.
My Favs
3. Hurt You
2. Reunited
1. Where Did We Go Wrong
Overall Rating: 69 with a recommendation to listen then decide
Roller Coaster- It’s a smooth and relaxing song, but that’s the
problem. The song is supposed to describe the chaotic nature of a relationship,
but instead we are treated to a beautiful happy song. I expected something to
display the chaotic nature. Either through variations in the beat or through
tonal variations in Braxton’s voce. 3/5
Sweat-According to this song, angry sex can cure all ills. Kidding
aside, Babyface’s voice reminds me of Maxwell’s in Ascension. 3/5
Hurt You- When people sabotage relationships with dubious behavior,
I doubt their intent (in most cases) is to hurt the other partner. But a lack
of some other need(s) clouds judgment. Once a person allows himself to indulge
once, the temptation is there to indulge again. I don’t think it’s right, but I
understand. 4/5
Where Did We Go Wrong- The beginning of the song is possibly a
reference to John 3:16.The words a bit different to fit the situation, but
close enough for me to believe it was a done purposely. This song is a perfect
follow up for the previous song. The previous song’s poor decisions lead the
couple to break up. By the time the relationship reaches this stage it too late
to reconcile. But too often, only at this stage do people think about the
consequences of their actions. 4/5
I Hope that You’re Okay- A solo for Babyface. I love the beat, but
besides that, there isn’t anything that sets this song apart. 3/5
I Wish- A rare solo for Toni Braxton One of the few songs that I
truly felt the emotion as she sang. I
appreciate that it’s venomous and angry but doesn’t apologize for it. The piano
serves as the foundation for the song and it provides a measure of beauty to a malicious
song 4/5
Take it Back-In this track, Braxton and Babyface take turns
handling sections of the song. But join forces to handle the chorus. It’s an
interesting way to build anticipation for the climax, but it worked. 3.5/5
Reunited- I felt the emotion in this song as well. Babyface adds
support for Braxton which leads to a memorable ballad for the duo. 4/5
I’d Rather Be Broke- The beginning lyrics are eerily similar to
Blackstreet’s “Before I Let You Go.” I like the song, but it’s doesn’t stand
out for me. 3/5
Heart Attack-70’s disco collides with modern delivery. I’d love
this song, but the lyrics are bit lackluster. It would be a perfect candidate
for the next single. This track seems out of place because it doesn’t fit with
the joyful then angry narrative the rest of the album uses. I would be better
if they put this track first because it’s an upbeat song to open the album. It
would add to the effect of the later more hateful songs as the relationship
soured. 3/5
The D Word- An appropriate end to the album. It offers a slightly
happier message than most of its other counterparts. Even if the lovers cannot be together a part
of them will always be present. In a way, it makes sense. Even if the relationship
does not work out, the experiences you’ve had with that person still exist. And
those experiences can either impact you negatively or positively. Either way,
those experiences shape the person you’ll become in the future. So, the effect
that person had is always with you. 3.5/5
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