Artist: Sade
Album: Soldier of Love
Release Date: 2.9.10

Eight years away from the spotlight could be damaging to a musician’s career, especially considering the ever-changing landscape of the music scene. What you’ll find with Soldier of Love is that the infamous band felt no need to conform, proving once again that their sound is timeless and their message is as relevant now as it was when the group took its leave. The most notable attribute of this album is its poetic approach to the lyricism. Mostly everything is stated in subtle references and metaphors that flow impeccably. That’s always been a shining quality in Sade’s music and given the group’s hiatus, it’s great to see this element was not sacrificed for a more “contemporary” approach with their return.

The title track is one-of-a-kind for Sade, with a driving drum line and a weathered sound to the lead singer’s vocals that give it a modern sound without sacrificing their effortless chemistry as a band. The strings on Moon And The Sky weep a softly strummed melody as Sade croons over the “one that got away”, envisioning the greatness of a love that was never reached. I’m drawn to the subtlety of the reggae-tinged Babyfather which strikes me as a follow-up to The Sweetest Gift (from the Lover’s Rock album). Sade dons the voice of wisdom on In Another Time, advising her daughter on matters of the heart from the perspective of a jaded lover. Skin is an easy favorite for its smooth delivery with lyrics that illustrate the moment when the pain of losing love subsides and you realize it’s time to move on with life.

If Soldier of Love is missing anything, it’s the infectious moderately percussive sound that characterized many of Sade’s earlier hits, including Sweetest Taboo, Smooth Operator, and Ordinary Love. Though the overall sound of this project is excellent both vocally and instrumentally, the lighter sound of their earlier work is missed and replaced with darker, gloomier tones. One or two slightly more “moving” jams wouldn’t have hurt this project.

Sade has done, once again, what they’ve always done: they’ve put together a collection of music that is true to them and maintains the elements that made them synonymous with R&B excellence. Soldier of Love is as true to their fans as any of their previous albums. The content here is approached from the perspective of more mature, experienced writers with slightly calloused hearts – and it’s the honesty that resonates throughout the project. Sade has officially returned and with Soldier of Love, they’re ready to win…

Sound-Savvy rates Soldier of Love with 4 out of 5 platinum headphones.

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