On The Download: Brandy
FIRST PUBLISHED: December 22, 2008 6:24 PM EST
LAST UPDATED: December 22, 2008 6:49 PM EST
By Jeremy Blacklow
HOLLYWOOD, Calif. --
A couple of weeks ago Brandy released her 5th full-length studio album, the aptly named “Human,” which unfortunately only debuted at #15 on the Billboard album charts.
I say “unfortunately” because she’s made a truly great album.
It’s hard to talk about Brandy without mentioning the horrible car accident she was in late in 2006, in which a woman was killed. The event was life changing for the still young (yet almost veteran) R&B singer. She never faced any criminal charges for the accident.
So, “Human,” her first album in four years, reflects her gained maturity since that incident. Lead track “Right Here (Departed)” is the best track she’s had since her Monica duet “The Boy Is Mine” in 1998.
In fact, all of the songwriting and themes on this album feel more mature. I’ve been a fan of Brandy’s since she first debuted (at age 15!) in 1994. She has blossomed from teen phenom, to TV star, to mature woman in this time.
Her second single, the ballad “Long Distance,” has just been serviced to radio and her voice sounds stronger than ever.
“Human” saw Brandy back in the studio with longtime collaborator and hitmaker Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins, who produced her 1998 2nd album, “Never Say Never.”
The album has at least 5 hits on it – including stand out lead track, “The Definition,” and the (non-Billy Joel inspired) “Piano Man.”
If you’re looking for a last-minute present for pop-loving family or friends, and you want to sort past the obvious Britney and Beyonce options, “Human’s” worth checking out.
Here’s hoping it catches on with a wider audience.
http://www.accesshollywood.com/music..._article_12761
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