Let me get one thing straight: Beyonce might be a bigger star, but Solange is way more special. I have been a huge Solange fan ever since her debut album, but now I might crown her the best alternative act out there. It had been four years since she dropped her glorious EP True, which spawned a soultry diamond Leaving You. I believe her latest effort, A Seat At The Table is going to cement her status as one of the most talented female singer-songwriters. So, let’s start dissecting this masterpiece track by track.
Following the intro titled Rise comes Weary, Raphael Saadiq produced tune that asks listeners to question the status quo of the globe. Solange utilizes her sensitive voice to oppose the social hierarchy and promote equality. Cranes In The Sky describes singer’s unhealthy techniques of dealing with rejection she experienced as being a member of Black community.
I tried to run it away
Thought then my head be feeling clearer
I traveled 70 states
Thought moving round make me feel better
Mad features Lil Wayne, which is why I tend to skip this track as I am not a fan of the little mister. On the other hand, Don’t You Wait is a track you don’t want to skip. It addresses Solange’s success with True, during which she realized how white audience and white music critics misperceived her music output by avoiding contemplating about its racial discourse.
And then comes my absolute favorite – an r’n’b pearl Don’t Touch My Hair.
Don’t touch my pride
They say the glory’s all mine
Don’t touch my mouth
They say the truth is my sound
The phenomenal song features Sampha, giving the melody a marvelous touch with his unique vocal. Don’t Touch My Hair incorporates everything Solange’s artistic persona stands for –racial pride, cultural perseverance, her music talent and, nonetheless, perfect production.
The album comprises numerous interludes. One that stands out features her mother Tina Knowles speaking in a racially charged manner. These intros fit perfectly with the album’s concept.
Where Do We Go and F.U.B.U shine through the middle of the record. F.U.B.U is an African-American anthem. The rest of the album is just as brilliant, so go ahead and discover it yourself. I don’t want to spoil everything for you. There is a charm in deconstructing the music in your own way. Sometimes you may not understand it, but Solange forces you to do your best.
If you don’t understand my record, you don’t understand me, so this is not for you.
