There is nothing subtle about Tamar Braxton. If you haven’t learned that by now, I’m not sure what world you live in; however, it is not the only thing that proves to be true. Tamar proves that big talent, persistence, and a bit of patience, equates to nothing short of major success and a catapult into superstardom. She sings; sangs, as a matter of fact, on every record of this project, “Love and War.” Tamar’s voice sounds so young, that, juxtaposed with her ability, and tenacity as a singer, clearly personifies every aspect of her personality, vocally. I took the week to completely immerse myself in this album and this is my experience.
The One
This has been my song since it came out. I can remember “The One,” showed the world that Tamar was cut from the cloth of mother Mimi, and 90’s RnB. It’s classic from the sample, to the melody, and arrangement; It just feels good!
Tip Toe
The second cut of the album, “Tip Toe,” shows the comfort Tamar could experience in the world of crossover RnB/Pop. I like the song because at one time or another, who hasn’t had a boo, or been a boo, “on the low?” She’s sassy and she saunters through this track. Vocally, Tamar shows some of that range. The verses are girded in that lower register.
Stay and Fight
Here’s a song, one of a couple, that I doubt many people expected Tamar to sing. It starts feeling very much Sade; very calm, relaxed, but it’s expressive. It is the first time we experience the vulnerability Tamar’s boisterous personality so often escapes. Anyone who’s been through anything can identify with the theme. Oh, and surprise, its the first time we hear Tamar give whistles from her whistle register, huge range!
Love and War
Still, one of my favorite songs, and my first introduction to Tamar Braxton, the singer, big song, big voice, big ballad; story of my playlist. I’m always here for it.
All the Way Home
This is modern RnB. Naturally; it sits in the vein created for the next voice of RnB. Plus, its relatable. We listen, and we begin to experience what’s assumed to have been going on with Tamar and her husband in their own relationship, as seen Thursdays on WE TV, “Tamar and Vince.”
One on One Fun
This is one track I could have done without. But, that doesn’t stop me from listening every time it comes on. It’s cute, and I don’t mind the theme, but vocally it leaves me wanting more. Personal opinion, but I’m not really here for this arrangement, suck is life, if you can, get into it.
She Did That
Look! This is the breakup. Actually, I’m starting to believe that this song was written and sung specifically for me! I love this track. It gives that ratchet Tamar, so often displayed on Braxton Family Values. It thumps, it’s over the top, and its all about ego, so I’m here for it. All I need is for her to get back in that booth and record a second verse and bridge. She did that!
Hot Sugar
Tamar takes another stab at mid tempo with this record. There’s nothing extraordinary about the song but it flows with the album.
Pieces
“Pieces” is classic RnB. Another song I was able to easily embrace. Tamar is putting her foot down and letting you know exactly what she will not take. All or nothing, and every bit of the strain or pangs she’s experienced are heard here.
Where it Hurts
Initially, I had difficulty deciding if I like this track or not. I do. It exposes another side of Tamar and yet another layer of her voice. She sings about comforting her man and finding where it hurts so that she can help and clean up that mess.
Prettiest Girl
Easy breezy, this is another theme song. It makes me feel pretty too! I love this track. It just lifts my spirit. Vocally, if you haven’t noticed, she is a dope ass singer; get into her runs and ad-libs.
Sound of Love
I remember hearing the snippet of this track on “Tamar and Vince” with TC, a vocal beast on his own, in the studio. Shout out to him because he is definitely heard in the background of the record and he wrote a classic romance song. She, her, Tamar is vulnerable again, and this song allows you to feel the tenderness of her spirit. There is warmth there that should be appreciated.
White Candles
Another song you may not have expected to see on a Tamar Braxton album, but one that proves that she can sing anything. And, thematically, it’s vulnerable. Uneasy, and you can feel that discomfort all over this thing, especially in the bridge and ad-libs. Tamar is here for her relationship and she doesn’t want, at any cost, for it to burn out.
Thank You Lord
I don’t mind this song, but its not one that I spend time longing to hear. Now, praise the lord, I love that she decided to put a gospel song on the album, and increasingly showing just how genre crossing she can be, but I would have preferred she record her rendition of the “Be Grateful” classic she performed on celebration of Gospel.
Tamar Braxton effortlessly exudes a breadth of vocal ability, one that is not always tangible in current music. My absolute favorite songs, if I have to choose, are Prettiest Girl, Sound of Love, White Candle, Pieces, and of course, She Did That.
Sonically, Tamar Braxton is like any other artist, the assimilation of ones influences, she just so happens to have a powerhouse voice with five octaves. I like to think she’s the child of Mariah Carey and Toni Braxton. In case you haven’t noticed, she is Toni’s youngest sister, why wouldn’t they sound a like?
There is no denying a talent this great of a woman as ambitious as she. She’s a working mother, two reality shows, The Talk, and she is readily embarking on tour with John Legend. Tamar even has a book coming soon, titled, Love and War; how’s that for cross promotion? If you haven’t yet, get the album. I love it. Get your life.
