R&B veteran Tank has released his latest studio album, Stronger. The new album finds the singer in new territory—a more upbeat, forward sound.
Tank, who is also a member of R&B group TGT with Ginuwine and Tyrese, has been in the music business for more than two decades. On Stronger, the singer takes listeners on a ride from the dance floor to the bedroom and back.
For someone who’s been in the game for so long, he is showing his musical prowess and setting standards in modern R&B. Stronger is a lot less sex-driven than his previous efforts, but it is smooth.
TRACK-BY-TRACK REVIEW
Track 1: “You’re My Star”
This is a nice, breezy, upbeat track. Tank makes you want to dance on this one. His voice sounds smooth, and this makes for a great opening track for the album. It sounds classic but current. The breakdown of “baby girl, you know you’re a star” toward the middle of the song is amazing. It’s a very nice track to sing along to.
Track 2: “Nobody Better”
Song two has a “worldwide” sound, as stated at the beginning of the lyrics. Tank sounds comfortable crooning on this dance track. The flow seems to come comfortably for the singer. This is a much different sound from the ballads and mid-tempo jams we usually get from Tank, and it doesn’t sound forced.
Track 3: “Dance With Me”
On this track he’s turning up his cool factor and strongly saying he is here to stay. He asks, “Do the ladies or fellas do it better?” in this song, which makes for a fun battle.
Track 4: “I Gotta Have It”
As the journey of this album continues, “I Gotta Have It” makes it simply more exciting. Tank proudly sings to his significant other, “Every time I think about being next to you.” Tank proves he can slide right into the synth-driven R&B of today and also give you a really nice vocal.
Track 5: “Missing You”
On this soulful track, Tank attempts to appeal to a former lover. “Missing You” continues the theme of catchy, simple lyrics seen on this album. Tank delivers passion and soul in his music, and the new sound on this album is refreshing.
Track 6 “Same Way”
Tank showcases his awesome vocal runs, which are just what the doctor ordered. The amazing breakdown at the end of the song takes this song to the next level.
Track 7: “Hope This Makes You Love Me”
This starry ballad sounds like a soldier’s quest to win his lover back. Its sound can easily work in the bedroom or the stadium. It’s a bombastic track that certainly anchors this album.
Track 8: “Stronger”
The title track and first single on the album is a triumph. The R&B master takes listeners on a victory lap with his powerful vocals. It’s a love song but also an inspirational track that shows just how love can make someone stronger. Tank’s vocals are effortless, and he shows off his signature tone on this blazing single.
Track 9: “Thanking You”
This is certainly one of the vocal highlights on this album. A gospel influence is certainly felt on this track. It is definitely a signature Tank record.
Track 10: “If That’s What It Takes”
Tank is no stranger to baby-making tracks. But the singer uses this song as a chance to display just how important his lover means to him. Tank is realizing he’s already won over his listeners in that department. He’s showing the vulnerable side of R&B that the other gentlemen in the genre may be lacking in.
Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
“Stronger” is appropriate, affectionate and just what is needed for R&B this year. The 10 tracks on “Stronger” flow easily, making it a nice return for the veteran singer. Tank delivered a solid album and didn’t play it safe. “Stronger” is a modern, upbeat album and the strength comes from the confidence to step outside of the comfort zone that so many artists place themselves in. While many artists at this stage in their career are just comfortable giving the audience what works, Tank has taken a risk. For that reason, even if some of the lyrics are not as strong on “Stronger,” all is forgiven because it’s a nice groove.
Standout tracks: “You’re My Star,” “I Gotta Have It,” “Hope This Makes You Love Me” and “Stronger”
Get Tank’s new album, “Stronger,” on iTunes.
