Amerie "In Love & War" | Album Review

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Artist:

Amerie

Album:

In Love & War

Record Label:

DefJam Recordings

Release Date:

November 3rd, 2009

Rating:

4 out of 5 Stars

"For this album, I told people I needed music that was really heavy, something with knock," says Amerie. "Nothing too pretty; I wanted something that sounded `70's-ish, when rock had a lot of soul in it, and it was still so related to the blues. And of course it needed that hip-hop element."

Amerie debuts her 4th studio album “In Love & War” on November 3rd, 2009. It’ is the follow up to “Because I Love It” which was released internationally. “In Love & War” boast a collection of mid-tempo and funky nostalgic tracks that defines a sultry and unique sound for the R&B superstar. A blend of horns, drums and old school samples provide the basis for the album. The album fuses hip-hop, R&B, soul, funk, rock and pop into one great package. Love and the consequences thereof, are topics discussed throughout the album.

Tell Me You Love Me

The Intro track should set-up a visual picture for the entire album. “Tell Me You Love Me” is bass pounding track that is funky and groovy. Wanting the attention and affection of a man will make you beg for it. This track is definitely one to garner attention.

Heard ‘Em All [Second Single]

The 2nd single from “In Love & War” is a catchy dance tune for the clubs. Amerie loves drums and bass and she sticks to a well-written formula. The more cocky and boisterous side of Amerie comes out on this track. She has heard it all before so come with something better. One of my favorite tracks!

Dangerous

The guitar-strumming intro brings a funky retro vibe to “In Love & War.” Reminds me of an old school Jimmie Hendricks track with hair swinging everywhere. Showing Amerie’s versatility and inner rock star the track is under 3 minutes, but it could have been longer.

Higher

Amerie promised to deliver a funky retro album and I definitely see an MTV: Unplugged session in the future. Drums, guitars and funk rocks “Higher” to another level. Playing with someone’s emotions and letting her go like nothing ever happened will bring on a woman’s scorn. Good retro track to jam too…

Why R U [First Single]

Sometimes love blindsides us and we never know why we’re so attached to someone. Amerie’s vocals ride the beat of an old hip-hop track that you can beat your head to. The 1st single didn’t gain much radio airplay, but the lyrical content and smooth vibe is amazing and definitely worth mention.

Pretty Brown (Featuring Trey Songz) [Third Single]

A remake of Mint Condition’s 1992 hit “Pretty Brown Eyes,” Amerie and Trey Songz puts a 2009 spin on it and creates magic. Trey Songz puts his sensual touch on the track adding depth and range. Pretty Brown should have been the 1st single because it is smooth, soulful, and sexy. My FAVE track on the album. MUST HAVE!

More Than Love (Featuring Fabolous)

Sometimes love is not enough to keep you in a relationship. Amerie questions her commitment over a smooth beat with the help of F-A-B-O-L-O-U-S. Definitely a track that many people can relate too. MUST HAVE!

Swag Back

Amerie goes in a different direction on “Swag Back”. It sounds like a demo for a C-list pop singer. The track really doesn’t fit into the sound of the album.

You’re A Star (Interlude)

A transition piece that takes “In Love & War” into a more serious, seductive, and slow vibe. The beat is dope sounds almost like a Neptune’s production with synthesizers and drum taps.

Red Eye

Amerie is usually a mid to up-tempo type of girl. On “Red Eye” she slows it down and gives us a much more sexier side. This is for all the YouTube hip rollers and baby makers out there. Amerie seduces listeners with her smooth vocals on this track. MUST HAVE!

The Flowers

Sometimes it’s to late to make up for the past, and there is nothing you can do to make it like it was. “The Flowers” is an amazing song that is lyrically genuine and raw. This track is a seamless transition from “Red Eye” that should be used as a lesson to lovers. Amerie sounds incredible on this track.

Different People

Don’t you hate when you get in a relationship and your significant other tries to change who you are?! “Different People” sends a powerful message and Amerie voice captures the idea in a brilliant way. An old school beat accompanied by piano sets up the story effortlessly. MUST HAVE!

Dear John

Picture your girl sitting at the piano writing you a goodbye letter. “Dear John” is a farewell to cheaters. Using classical piano and strong vocals to set up the end of a relationship.

Heard ‘Em All (Remix) (Featuring Lil Wayne)

The king of remix’s Lil Wayne jumps on “Heard ‘Em All” with Amerie.

“In Love & War” is a story of the struggles we face dealing with love and relationships. Amerie’s past relationships sets the foundation for an album that relates to the experience of so many. Overall, the album is solid and should garner the attention of R&B, hip-hop, soul and funk lovers. Thank you for sharing you experiences with the fans…

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