Solange Knowles: A TRUE Artist

On November 27th, the incredibly talented (and underrated) Solange Knowles released her latest collection of music. The 7-track EP, True, is a follow up to her funky and soulful previous album "Sol-Angel and the Hadley Street Dreams". On True, Solange continues her journey as an artist with a musical palate that sharply contrasts her wildly famous sister's style.

Solange is, in my opinion, one of the best female artists out here. She has the entire package: impeccable individual style, deeply personal and well-crafted songs, and solid, unique production. She is the cool singin', paintin', DJin', and cussin' intellectual chick that girls want to hang out with and guys want to date. Solange is one of the few artists who truly understands that if you want to produce timeless, quality, and cohesive material, then you need to use "tried-and-true" methods. For example, she wrote the entire EP and worked with one producer, Dev Hynes, to produce a seamless sound.

Here is a track by track review:

"Losing You"

This song is the perfect kickoff to the EP. "Losing You" is odd, yet pleasant gumbo of pop and R&B with a dash of house music influence. Although Solange's airy vocals lament a fading love, the upbeat and percussion heavy tempo is uplifting and provides a perfect match to Solange's carefree and unique persona.

"Some Things Never Seem to Fucking Work"

Could this song be an ode to her widely publicized teenage romance (and first marriage) to college football player Daniel Smith? Perhaps so. At any rate, we have all went through that necessary shift from agonizing heartbreak to lingering anger over a love gone wrong. Despite her foul language and angry lyrics, Solange's vocals are flawlessly smooth over the simple production.

"Locked in Closets"

 Solange serves up yet another potential hit with this track. The vocals are the defining feature of the song: effortless and solid without unnecessary melismas. Keep it on repeat!

"Lovers In the Parking Lot"

The second upcoming single from True, "Lovers In the Parking Lot" is a standout track on this EP. Backed by a hypnotic beat, Solange reassesses the pitfalls of toying with another person's emotions. Dev Hynes and Solange are a match made in musical heaven.

"Don't Let Me Down"

Once again, Solange tackles the pitfalls of love over addictive music. She proclaims her love for her man and expects his affection in return with church-tinged vocals. The production pulsates with a guitar influence. This song shows Solange at her most vulnerable moment on the EP.

"Looks Good With Trouble"

I don't know why this song/interlude is so short, but I need more. Much more. This small sample of sexy is an unfair tease and proves that this Knowles sister is a vixen in her own right.

"Bad Girls"

Best song on the album. Lyrically, vocally, and production wise. Solange spreads her wings with sweet vocal runs as she finds herself in a strange bed after the previous night's bad decisions. 

Overall, congrats on a fantastic EP void of filler and full of intoxicating music!

Love Solange,

-T. Amour