Reviews (page 2 of 8)
Этот альбом удачно вышел в эпоху хайпа вокруг интимного рнб. При повторном прослушивании обнаружила, что активно слушала его в год выхода, но ничего особо о нем не помню. Бейонсе стёрла память людям, чтобы они забыли о куда более талантливой музыке её сестры? Но показалось, что альбома слишком много, к концу уже начала уставать, но в целом на уровне недавнего lp от Эрики Баду для меня. Здорово, что в челендже есть и новые альбомы, я думала, что подборка закончилась на 2015
Sehr geiler Sound, hat mir unglaublich gut gefallen - 5 Sterne
Bey's sister got pipes.
loved this, her voice is so good
Beyoncé: easy listen Her sister: exciting listen Real Talented family fr fr
In this game you cannot be too extreme (Throbbing Gristle, Einstürzende Neubauten, etc) or too subtle. If you listen in there is so much to discover in this album's arrangements never mind the personal and political in the lyrics.
relaxing and beautiful
FINALLY an album I like from a genre I love! Solange is Solange. The dialogue interludes created an atmosphere that evokes this feeling of the power and history of being black - so beautifully put together! 'Cranes in the Sky' is just so amazing. This might be the first album that I agree everyone should listen to before they die - it's a very important listen - it's what being black is all about.
Almost 10 years old, but it still sounds as fresh as the day it dropped. 4.5 bumped up to 5.
I’m at a 5. This is, much like “Untitled (Black Is)”, an album about black positivity, black excellence, and black affirmation. I am a half-Filipino, white-passing male. I once again fully acknowledge that I can’t ever fully relate to this album, or the black experience, but I can continue to listen and do my part to make this world a better place, and that includes lifting up albums like this that so deeply acknowledges what it is to be black, both in the positives & the negatives, and share a better understanding of that experience. It does a pretty good job of expressing that experience – while it doesn’t feel as vividly & as dazzlingly painted as what SAULT did, this takes a much more confidently feminine approach, portraying a sort of softer simmered anger about the day-to-day microaggressions that simply come with being black in this country. It’s not going for the jugular here; it’s just asking to be heard out, and it’s more than worth hearing out, from both a messaging standpoint & a musical standpoint. It’s certainly worth hearing out from a production standpoint; Solange is not her sister and it shows, with this album drawing more from the indie hip-hop scene of the 2010s, with a touch of TPaB’s jazzier influence in there. The synth / bass / percussion work that underlines a lot of these tracks is quintessentially 2016 to my ears, and with the recent trend going around, it does feel kinda nice to go back to this style. The main 12 tracks here are all pretty good; Solange’s vocals shine through like a star, occasionally pretty comparable to her sister in its most tender harmonies. The lyrics are great, and I don’t think there’s ever a dull moment of repetition like that; it’s constantly moving forward, much like she is on “Don’t Wish Me Well”. All of the features here kill it, even if I wish some of them had more to them (Andre 3000 on “Junie” is criminally underutilized & Q-Tip feels barely present on “Borderline”), but the whole album flows really well with Solange as the star. I’d be remiss to not mention the interludes at some point – sure, it’s a little strange for Master P’s life story to take over most of them, but I think it works as a good contrast to show a bonafide success story, & with his own relationship to the family, it fits pretty well in the context of the album. I do think there might be a few too many interludes in a way that messes with the pacing of the album, but it’s never egregious. They certainly don’t ruin the quality of any of the main 12 tracks, with the transitions between them usually flowing well. Ultimately then, I’m at a 5. It’s not a super dazzling cultural phenomenon of a 5 like her sister dropped earlier in 2016 (it is criminal that “Lemonade” isn’t here given some of the hand-in-hand themes at play here), but it’s a tightly written, tightly composed album that still shines uniquely in its own way, & one that I think is worth being on the list. It’s a super strong album without a single miss throughout the 51 minutes here. The floor is a 3 if you just don’t vibe with it musically.
Yes, yes, a thousand times yes! The most impeccable vibes. Solange had one album in her and it was this one.
Suena muy angelical, muy soul, armonioso, quizás no si siente una diferencia profunda entre las canciones, siento que es un álbum hecho para escuchar de principio a fin, porque suena como una sola canción
This and the two Untitled Sault albums from 2020 capture the most recent moment of protest and optimism, which has been sadly more than stomped to nothing. But these are also the types of albums that can inspire us to create and keep fighting for a better tomorrow. An absolute gem that brings the best out of Solange and her supporting cast. And the Master P narrative doc interludes was a brilliant touch.
A beautiful, intimate, quiet journey of womanhood, love, and racial politics. Love it as much as I did when it came out nearly...10 years ago (yikes). I've always felt like this album was a creative outpouring of feelings and stories kept inside for so long that it needed 21 tracks to share it all. I'd give it a 4.5, but rounding up.
my preferred Knowles sister
5/5. A fully realized record of rage and self-love, with vintage and soulful production while still feeling fresh and modern. I think this album has a lot going for it and has layers that I definitely didn't hear on first spin so will have to listen to it again but I think I have a good feeling for my opinion about this album. It's not perfect but there is a confidence through each track that convinces me otherwise, and not in a pretentious or boastful way, just a matter of fact way. It's hard to describe but it does feel important. Best Song: Cranes In The Sky, Borderline (An Ode to Self Care), Don't Touch My Hair, Junie
Lowkey poignant.
Uma delícia de álbum. Mulheres negras ouvem Solange.
Ja!!! 5 stjerner, men mye mer fem stjerner enn Dire Straights!! Så variert og fint album (litt for poppete noen steder kanskje, bittelitt kjedelig noen steder, kulest når det er mer RnB-aktig) og hun synger så vakkert🥰 er hun kvinnelige Frank Ocean? Som jeg innerst inne liker godt noen ganger?
Yeah, yeah, we all know the whole "Thank You, Beyonce" phenomenon so I sort of cannot blame Dimery for including this album on this list. Nobody deserves to die over music. He's just watching out for himself, and his name is out there. But my account here is anonymous and I have nothing to fear. It is an embarrassment that this nepo-inside-job made it on to the list and no Bill Withers. No Tame Impala. No INXS. No Shania Twain. I smell a rat. And this album is not good. One star, easily. Vapid lyrics. Washy sound. Momentum-killing interludes. No thank you, Beyoncé. YOU HEAR ME? ONE STAR I don't care who hears about... oh hold up. Someone is at my door. Let me just get this and I'll be right back...
Beyonce may be a better performer, more facile with capital B, capital I Big Ideas, and maybe the most collaborative pop star of our age But Solange... since the elevator, Solange has been the best writer and the best singer in the Knowles family, which is saying something. Just thinking about "Cranes in the Sky" makes me feel things that almost no other song in recent memory can. Hearing it? Perfection.
Probably one of the chillest albums i’ve heard in awhile. i can see why it had critical acclaim. i like how she tied in Master P’s life story into it.
I have never even heard of Solange before this, and thank goodness that has now been corrected. Gorgeous vocals and lyrics. I love how many songs are prefaced by spoken wisdom from her parents. Lovely declaration of pride and resilience.
AAAHHHHHHHH!!!!! first the eagles then kanye and now solange!!!!!! top tier fire albums back to back just for me 🤍 it's funny cause cranes of the sky is the title track here and i honestly think it's one of my least fave songs on this album (not bad i just really love the others more)! this is my style of music tbh so i already know the i'm gonna be wildly biased but idc : ) she and cleo sol are super similar and that's my other bitch! she's making my morning coffee taste extra sweet!
Æ hørte litt på det i sin tid, men ikke mye nok til at det satt sæ, men det e et bra album. Æ like det.
Really great concept album with rich vocals
My first thought was, wow, great voice, excellent production… how have I never heard this before? This is beautiful. Well, I’m really out of the loop, so the second I read Solange is Beyoncé’s sister, I was like, ahh crap. She must be riding the coattails. But, to Solange’s benefit, even though there aren’t many bangers on here, I think I’d rather listen to this in full than any of Beyoncé’s albums, and that’s saying a lot! A major criticism I see about ‘A Seat at the Table’ is that it’s flat, and all the songs are too similar. I’d argue that it makes for a super chill and consistent listen. The interludes start to come off as preachy, but they hold together the overall theme and style. It’s an overall vibe, and it’s very unlike her sister’s.
Stunning.
5/5
Not an artist I would ordinarily listen to - but I suppose this is the whole point of the project and I am glad for it. Really enjoyed this in particular the spoken parts. Solange's voice is very mellow and made for an interesting juxtaposition against the spoken realism. Talent clearly runs in the blood of the Family.
Fantastic album. Love it.
Lovely lovely lovely
10/10 really beautiful stuff here
This album also raised me
Iconic!
Some beautiful, soulful songs on this album. I want it in my collection.
Did not see this coming. The album was just fun to listen to--had a great sonic quality. Plus Master P on the interludes.
## In-Depth Review of *A Seat at the Table* by Solange Solange's *A Seat at the Table* is a masterful exploration of identity, empowerment, and the Black experience. Released on September 30, 2016, this third studio album marked a significant departure from her earlier works, offering a deeply personal and political narrative. Below is an analysis of the album's lyrics, music, production, themes, and influence, along with its strengths and weaknesses. --- ### **Lyrics** The lyrical content of *A Seat at the Table* is one of its defining features. Solange crafts a narrative that oscillates between personal introspection and broader commentary on systemic racism and cultural identity. Tracks like "Cranes in the Sky" delve into emotional escapism and grief, while "Don't Touch My Hair" addresses the fetishization and disrespect of Black hair as a symbol of identity and autonomy[1][2]. The interludes scattered throughout the album add depth to its storytelling. For example: - **"Tina Taught Me"** features Solange’s mother reflecting on Black pride and its misinterpretation as anti-white sentiment. - **"Dad Was Mad"** recounts her father’s experiences with racism, adding generational context to her themes. Songs such as "F.U.B.U." (For Us By Us) make bold statements about Black solidarity: “This shit is for us / Don’t try to come for us.” These lyrics reclaim space for Black people while unapologetically addressing exclusionary practices[2][3]. --- ### **Music** Musically, *A Seat at the Table* blends genres such as R&B, neo-soul, funk, and jazz. The arrangements are minimalistic yet intricate, creating an ethereal atmosphere that complements Solange's soft vocal delivery. Tracks like "Rise" and "Weary" feature meditative melodies that underscore themes of resilience and weariness[3]. Highlights include: - **"Cranes in the Sky"**: A standout track with lush strings and subtle percussion that perfectly convey emotional vulnerability. - **"Mad"**: Featuring Lil Wayne, this track juxtaposes frustration with systemic oppression against a soothing instrumental backdrop. - **"Junie"**: A funk-infused track featuring André 3000 that critiques cultural appropriation while maintaining an upbeat groove. The album's production leans heavily on live instrumentation, with warm basslines, airy harmonies, and layered textures that evoke both intimacy and grandeur[2][3]. --- ### **Production** The production on *A Seat at the Table* is meticulously crafted. Solange served as the executive producer alongside Raphael Saadiq. The album’s soundscape is cohesive yet dynamic, balancing stripped-down arrangements with moments of lush complexity. Key production elements: - The use of interludes provides narrative continuity while giving space for reflection. - Tracks like "Don't Wish Me Well" incorporate electronic elements without disrupting the organic feel of the album. - The mixing ensures that Solange’s vocals remain front and center, enhancing the emotional impact of her lyrics[3][4]. --- ### **Themes** Thematically, *A Seat at the Table* centers on Black identity, resilience, healing, and empowerment. Solange invites listeners to confront uncomfortable truths about race and inequality while celebrating Black culture. Recurring themes include: 1. **Empowerment**: Songs like "Borderline (An Ode to Self Care)" emphasize self-preservation in a world that often devalues Black lives. 2. **Grief and Healing**: Tracks such as "Cranes in the Sky" explore coping mechanisms for emotional pain. 3. **Cultural Pride**: "F.U.B.U." and "Don't Touch My Hair" assert ownership over Black identity and reject external validation[2][3]. The interludes provide additional context by weaving personal anecdotes with broader social commentary. This approach creates a multi-dimensional narrative that resonates universally while remaining rooted in Solange’s lived experience. --- ### **Influence** *A Seat at the Table* has had a profound impact on contemporary music and culture: - It solidified Solange’s position as an artist distinct from her sister Beyoncé, showcasing her ability to merge art with activism. - The album inspired discussions about representation in music and highlighted the importance of creating spaces for marginalized voices. - Its influence can be seen in subsequent works by artists who blend personal storytelling with socio-political commentary[1][2]. Critics have compared its cultural significance to Lauryn Hill's *The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill*, noting its ability to articulate complex emotions while addressing systemic issues[3]. --- ### **Pros** 1. **Lyrical Depth**: The album’s lyrics are poignant and thought-provoking, offering both personal insight and social critique. 2. **Cohesive Production**: The seamless blending of genres creates a unique soundscape that enhances the album’s themes. 3. **Cultural Relevance**: Solange addresses issues such as racism, cultural appropriation, and self-care with authenticity and nuance. 4. **Emotional Resonance**: Tracks like "Cranes in the Sky" evoke universal feelings of pain and healing. --- ### **Cons** 1. **Vocal Delivery**: While Solange's voice suits the album's tone, some listeners may find her breathy vocal style less dynamic compared to other powerhouse singers[2]. 2. **Pacing Issues**: The interludes, though meaningful, may disrupt the flow for listeners seeking a more traditional album structure[3]. 3. **Accessibility**: The album’s themes may feel too specific or exclusionary for some audiences unfamiliar with its cultural context[4]. --- ### Conclusion *A Seat at the Table* is a landmark album that balances artistry with activism. Its introspective lyrics, innovative production, and thematic depth make it a compelling listen that resonates both personally and politically. While it may not cater to every listener's preferences in terms of vocal style or pacing, its cultural significance and emotional impact are undeniable. This is an album that demands attention—not just for its musicality but for its message. It invites listeners to reflect on their place in society while celebrating resilience in the face of adversity.
Simply masterful. On this album Solange tells a tragic but inspiring story of race in America. Clearly for and by black people (as F.U.B.U makes obvious) this is an album that many white Americans could benefit from hearing. It's powerful thematically but also gorgeous sonically (the piano in particular) and shows us what can be accomplished by just letting a song breathe and focusing on the spaces between the notes. The mini speeches in between tracks also set the songs up nicely. Wow. I'm also curious how she got Wayne to record such a serious verse.
this is a near perfect album for me. this album helped usher in a resurgence in r&b, which is doing so well now. solange has industry giants like lil wayne and q-tip on here, but i also love seeing a baby sampha. so many of the songs have beautiful melodies, are catchy in syrupy slow way, and have both introspective and social commentary. "cranes in the sky" is such a great calming anthem and escape for an anxious person trying to figure out their independence and identity out.
i feel wholly unqualified to talk about the themes and meanings of this album, but i can evaluate three things about it: 1) this thing sounds immaculate. perfect sound to the whole thing, from the drums and the vocal layers to all the little touches on piano and synth and bass. 2) it feels like the right length -- short enough to feel concise but just long enough to feel like it's elaborating on a theme, with the interludes actually making a point about race and advantage in between the songs to give them more context. 3) the whole thing feels human. it's hard to explain how achingly sad it is to hear "Cranes in the Sky" in any context -- if you're gonna listen to one song from this thing after 2016, it would probably be this. it's impactful, it's important, and someone smarter than me would do a better job explaining and adding context to the themes than my white hipster ass. no words.
gotta contact the owner of this site and let them know they fucked up by not putting the FUNK tag on this sucker
This is pretty far up my list...maybe top 10?
what more can be said?
This is one of those albums that I've always avoided because it's really popular with ##white women##, in the same realm as Frank Ocean. I regret that decision now. Artsy new age R&B isn't /usually/ my thing, but my goodness this album was an incredible listen from start to finish. I had to give it a couple of listens to really dial in what I thought of it. Mad is really where this album sets off for me. I'm pretty sure that's her most popular song, and I can see why. Mad rocks. It's not often that Lil Wayne actually contributes positively to a song, but he really adds some freshness to the song. This album is phenomenally well produced, which is really what carries Solange. It would be a more mediocre album with just her voice alone, which isn't /breathtaking/. Songs like Borderline really showcase that. A lot of the production here reminds me slightly of Tyler, The Creator - but you can just tell she's worked with an all start cast of producers to get this album going. Seriously, this album is so well produced I reckon they could have thrown any other singer with no talent on here and it would have still held up solid. Great album, enjoyed every listen.
So beautiful! I only knew Cranes in the Sky, but this is great from front to back. Go, Solange!
I remember listening to A Seat At The Table early on in this album journey after it was recommended to me on Instagram. I think I reviewed it at the time there, but I’m going to avoid looking at what I wrote back then, and review this based on today’s listen. I really do like this album. It’s hard not to compare to Beyoncé since they’re sisters (I think), though I would, perhaps controversially, say I prefer this album over anything I’ve heard by Beyoncé. This is so chilled out and sedate, and has a really nice vibe to it. Solange sings well, and there are no unnecessary diva vocal runs which usually tend to annoy me more than anything. Yeah, it’s hard to fault this album. It’s just so pleasant.
enlightening
A modern classic
I’m such a slut for 2010s alternative R&B, neo-soul in general, and a Lil’ Wayne feature from any era. The fact that it’s a gorgeous politically-motivated statement only adds to the power of A Seat at the Table. I recall this being a juggernaut on its release, but it did fade into the background for me personally in the years since. Revisiting it now, it’s aged like the finest wine, and there is no doubt that it belongs on this list. Its influence is clear, its sound is both of the time and progressive, and its songwriter is gut-wrenchingly beautiful.
This is really good. Not just beautiful pop, but poetic social commentary on ongoing current events, racism, and all the things are so much easier to hear when sung in an angelic voice with a pleasant groove.
I enjoyed it.
September 19, 2024 HL: "Cranes in the Sky", "Mad", "Don't Touch My Hair", "Junie", "Don't Wish Me Well", "FUBU" an odd note but the leader of Dirty Projectors produces several tracks quietly intense, initially thought the amount of interludes were excessive but the whole album flows together really well with their help. Some songs are so good ("Cranes in the Sky", "Don't Wish Me Well") I regret not hearing this album earlier. I had misgivings about "neo soul" early on in this journey, but between this, Erykah Badu & Sault, there's been a lot of good representation from that subgenre. Definitely have been bumping this more than the average AOTD
I’ve never listened to any of her albums so this was great to dive in. Such a strong point of view from beginning to end.
This is a pretty extraordinary album. Cohesive throughout it is filled with minimalist neo soul at times and overflows with social messaging and just the right vibes at other times. I love how understated it all is. Nothing is over the top, but it all feels important.
Really good and cool, super clean moody vibe going on. Definitely a great listen to. Highly recommend, there’s a really good aura about it. 9/10.
Picked a good week to start listening to these again
Love this album. Always appreciated the Master P and Mama Tena interludes.
A powerful and seductive album experience that I wish I had listened to before now.
Solange Listened to this album years ago but didn’t remember the second half so well. Cranes in the Sky is an amazing song Weary is cool too. Other favorites: Where do we go? Junie The interludes help contextualize the songs and album I really like her voice and the harmonies sound great. The production is great and I love the bass (Raphael Saadiq?) and keys throughout.
9/10 Don’t know how I managed to miss this, because it is really my kind of thing. Ultra modern soul and R&B with impeccable production and excellent vocals Album is a total vibe Best: Junie
A beautiful album. What an important album. I've had this album in my library for quite a while as it was one of the albums of the year on many lists in 2016. Around that time there were several albums that were released in the R&B world that had this extended narrative structure to them that felt more like a DJ set then 10 or 15 different songs. I really appreciated these albums that came out because it allowed the artists to tell a story and to dive more deeply into a series of narrative threads. This album, particularly, with its attention to empowerment, liberation, resilience, and boundaries, is such a powerful commentary on self-worth and the Black experience. It feels like a generous invitation to sit at Solange's feet and listen to her experience through her own singing and the voices of Lil Wayne, Sampha and Master P. The craft and imagination and creativity behind the music are so rich and sophisticated. As a white man, I can find myself in this music invited into a call for healing understanding and empowerment while respecting the stories and words are sourced from deeply within the Black experience in the United States.
Quite remarkable - honest, moving, poignant and beautifully delivered. Solange is a real talent.
I was quite familiar with this album already, and in my head I came in thinking solid 4. But I listened very actively as I walked the quiet streets of a Lyon industrial area and I concluded this deserves more, it’s a great album. The interludes are so well woven, the flow of the whole album is impeccable, 21 tracks never drags, and there are some real highlights too - what more can you say about Cranes in the Sky. Fave Tracks: Rise, Cranes in the Sky, Don’t Touch My Hair, Don’t Wish Me Well 4.6/5
A beautiful ride from top to bottom. No individual tracks REALLY stood out to me but I enjoyed the ride! - I take it back, don’t wish me well is fireeeee.
Damn that was smooth
Had no idea this album existed and what a surprise! Lovely instrumentals and vocals, a full trip, rnb that I truly enjoy without getting bored due to the creative beats. Saved basically all the songs.
It’s the greatest album ever
Hell yeah brother
For not being Beyonce, this album is phenomenal.
nice
estuvo hermoso owo. 9/10
I can't be the only one more into Solange than Beyonce.
This was great! Weird I disregarded this release when it came out. Tightly produced neo-soul with ambition and scope.
So much more my vibe than anything Bey does. Wish she’d put more out.
Would have never listened to this if not for this app. I appreciate her creative vision and disregard for whatever pop junk was trending in 2016. The whole album flows and feels very intentional... nothing by accident. Sometimes that's not a good thing, but in this case, it is. The interludes add depth to the album and give you something to think about in between songs. This really feels like an art piece more than an album at times
Really enjoyed this album
That was beautiful and important.
Really strong album. Doesn’t try to do too much. I’m always gonna be biased towards neo soul, but I really enjoyed this album.
a really fabulous album, her voice is of course excellent, the production is perfect, and it has a real emotional heart to it. solange has always been underrated.
Oh this is for me right here. The calm rage, the sparse but interesting instrumentals, the great features, the integration of the interview interludes. No wonder this got all the acclaim and love it did!
She has a beautiful and powerful voice, it was a pleasure to listen. All of the songs were creating a strong, unite whole. In my opinion it's much better to listen with headphones on.
Great modern R&B album; I honestly prefer this to Beyoncé’s work. It has an impactful message told through amazing songs, ‘Cranes in the Sky’ being a real highlight.
This album caught me off guard. I didn’t know much about Solange going in except that she was Beyoncé's sister and was in Destiny’s child. I expected the album to sound like the Beyoncé albums that I had heard but this is completely different. It’s a lot more experimental with elements of jazz, Funkadelic and even Aphex Twin. It felt like a concept album all the way to the end. There wasn’t a moment that bored me or a track that I didn’t like. I love how she used vocal her harmonies to add color to a lot of the tracks rather than instrumentation. This is going to be on constant repeat for a while and I’m looking forward to going down the rabbit hole and checking out more of her music.
After hearing only great things about Solange, I can honestly say that I am WOWED. She's got a gorgeous voice, her songs & interludes are beautifully told, and the vibe vibe is wonderfully chill. I've officially added her to my library. 4.5 stars *On a separate note, I wish we'd have the ability to edit our reviews since I accidentally hit the vote button before I finished writing my last review.
Beaucoup aimé cet album. Je l’ai trouvé plein de subtilité et de nuances, avec une portée sociale. Recherche musicale et belle voix sans affectation.
The album that introduced me to Solange. My favorite songs are Don't Touch My Hair, Cranes in the Sky, Mad (featuring Lil Wayne), Borderline (An Ode to Self-Care), and Scales.
C’est tres tres bon en loundge musique d’ambiance, j’ai ecoute 2x 4.95
A true classic.
Did not expect to like as much as I did
This was definitely a pleasant surprise for me. I have never had any motivation to check out any tunes by Solange. This album was a real treat though. A smooth funk groove with meaningful lyrical content. I really enjoyed it!!
Wow! Smooth and personal. A great listen this morning.
I have loved some of Solange’s songs - she has some incredible dance remixes that can rip up a dance floor. But I had not idea what lay in store for me on this album. What songs! Deeply personal and moving. Intimate. Honest. Incredible. The music is smooth without being boring. It was engaging and it slowed me down and pulled me deeper into the lyrics. Speaking of lyrics - the thoughts and feelings being expressed take this to an entirely different level. Absolutely amazing accomplishment and a wonderful gift from Solange.
Better than Beyonce. Come at me hive.
Beautiful. Insightful, Celebratory, Sadness all in one
an all-time favourite. hands down. masterpiece.
completely amazing
nice family
One of my favorite albums ever! It all flows together perfectly and has such interesting and important commentary.
It took me 3 seconds on the first song to know this was worth 5 stars.
Loved everything about it! Good songs, good interludes, great lyrics, etc
Pleasantly surprised. Has a really good vibe and super easy to listen to. Melodic and chill.
@SHACK says he enjoyed when she punched Jay Z in the face. That's my review. 'ACK.
ITS HAPPENING. THIS IS NOT A DRILL. This is one of my favorite albums of all time. When this came out I was just getting into more R&B for the first time and it changed the way I listened to music. I remember listening to this while eating lunch in an enclave at the Nationwide building and then again while working. And then on the drive home. I can’t speak highly enough about this album. Favorite Songs are Weary, Cranes in the Sky, Don't You Wait, Don't Touch My Hair, Where Do We Go From Here, Borderline, Junie, and Don’t Wish Me Well. Basically the entire album is my favorite.
Brilliant.
I love this album a lot. The vocals are sweet, I love the instrumentation, the guest artists are fun, and it is an album with no breaks, more plz
Old favorite of mine!
This album is so generous and heartfelt, I love it.
Beautiful and unexpected delight. Will relisten for sure
Shocked I hadn't heard any of this before, but what a damn beautiful voice.
Aktivisme pakket ind i lækre beats og en vild vokal. R'n'B lige i face. Det er simpelthen bare et virkelig, virkelig godt album!
Deep and funky. Beyonce might be the Queen, but Solange is amazing.
One of the great spiritual balms in this life
This album was so soulful and smooth. I loved all of it, but my favourite songs are Weary, Cranes In The Sky, Mad featuring Lil Wayne and Don't Touch My Hair. 5/5 stars.
it was amazing better r&b then shit i use to listen
Not an album I would have picked out but boy I'm glad I've listened its outstanding.
Der Albumtitel sagt ja alles – Politik und Lässigkeit in Perfektion. All diese potenziellen Mega-Banger genau so so zurückzuhalten und einzuzäumen wie die Wut, ist Ausdruck einer Kontrolle, bei der sich jeder weiße Mann in die Hose kacken sollte. Ich guck mal kurz, ob ich Bremsspuren habe.
absolutely love this, listened to it independently for the better part of 2 days
This feels like a Dirty Projectors album
Smashed jay z with handbag, smashed making this record
Loved this - why has this website somehow got the most toxic user base
Very much a cohesive album. No huge singles that warrant a 5 star rating, but likewise very little that slips below a high 3. Sometimes consistency is a good thing, if it rewards the long listen.
Minnie Ripperton-esque vocals, smooth R&B instrumentation, and subtly defiant socially conscious lyrics. I'd written off Solange as a nepo-adjacent beneficiary of Beyonce (it doesn't help that Lemonade came out the same year) but this is a super solid listen that resulted in multiple tracks ending up on playlists. & god, this lyric: Man, this shit is draining But I'm not really allowed to be mad ...is such a solid truth, something I've personally said so many times (especially in a professional context). So props to Solange for speaking truth, making people who look like her feel seen & heard, and doing it in a way that almost makes you let go of being mad for a minute.
Really like it
Quite enjoyed it. Not really sure when you would listen to it in day to day life though.
A great album full of a mix of Solange’s smooth R&B and guest performers adding brilliant collaborations. Really great listen.
A beautiful laid back RnB record. Little slower than I am used to enjoying, but the sheer quality makes up for it. Perfect to put on during a nice sunday. I adore musicians who (at least partly) produce their own music. You can feel the difference in artistic expression and cohesion in their records and Solange is a great example of this. Solanges music ofcourse draws comparison to Beyonce's records. Where Beyonce's voice is a big bombastic megaphone, Solanges voice is a clear spring filled with cool fresh water. I also rather like her approach in tackling social issues, something her sister can learn something from. People should compare Beyonce to her clearly more talented sister, not the other way around. Difficult to rate. On the one hand I don't see myself quickly putting this record on again as it just isn't music I tend to listen to, but I have to acknowledge the quality of this record. 8.5/10
A great album, powerful and personal. The music isn't big, but it knows how to properly fill in with the lyrics and the story the album tries to tell. Each song is distinct and has its own place in the album, yet they flow effortlessly into one another.
Godly music, queen of beating up jay-z
As someone who is indifferent to RnB and a certified Beyonce hater, I did not have high hopes for this album, but it is surprisingly a very solid album. This isn't life changing by any means, but it is leagues better than anything I've heard from Beyonce. Low 4.
booom
4.3055
I am waffling between a 3 and a 4 on this one. The interludes are overdone and detract, but the music is great. I am going to focus on the music.
Overall: 8/10 This is such a chill album. I'll admit, I had my doubts about this one due to the fact that I'm not a huge Beyoncé fan, and I was afraid that this album would just be manufactured garbage. There is a bit of a glossy feel to the songs that you get from mainstream pop music, but it's mostly slow burning R&B/soul album. I think this type of music is an effective way to get her messages of black and female empowerment out there. I'm heavily impressed by her voice and style. Fav Song: Don't You Wait
Erykah Badu's modern competition. Hard to believe this album's a decade old.
It is not really my kind of music but elements of it were nice and it was very well crafted. It stood out from the usual R&B format
The extreme positivity around this album was excruciating when it came out but, ya know, even though she'd never again reach the heights of Losing You, this is a dang good record. As expected, crybabies in the reviews crying about Beyoncé. Sort it out fellas.
an audibly pretty album. the sound gets around a little, and it's exceptionally vibey overall. solange is a very good singer. Cranes in the Sky brings up a star on its own. soft 4
This is Solange getting her wings, and girl, fly!! Fantastic vocals, great interludes, and a solid, solid record.
Sponges
80/100.
I listened to this two summers ago during the Apple Music GOAT countdown, before I started this project. I didn’t hate it then, but I wasn’t a huge fan either, so I was curious if 676 days of doing this generator had changed my perspective any. “Weary” kind of reminds me of something Ciara would’ve done in the early 2000s. I also forgot about the spoken word interludes setting up the subject matter for the next song, which is a pretty nice concept. Then Lil Wayne shows up on “Mad,” and that’s a bonus. The album really gets heavier with the “Tina Taught Me” interlude going into “Don’t Touch My Hair.” And that was three years before the first CROWN Act was even passed in the US, so the subject matter definitely had weight to it. This still isn’t really my genre, and would she have gotten the same record deal opportunities without her big sister being Beyoncé? Who knows. But I’ll give it 4 stars for the subject matter and the songwriting.
I connected with this. 4!
Really good songs, hate the 9 interludes
I can't relate to the subject matter at all, but the album flowed very well and Solange has a nice voice.
A great album with one of the best songs of the last 10 years in "Cranes In The Sky".
Great songs and the production on this is kind of incredible. A lot of prescient songs, but a really timeless vibe.
So dreamy and cool girl coded
Important story
Modern version of "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill".
Yeah listened to this for the first time recently and enjoyed it so much. One of those “woah” moments. 4.8/5.0 Best Song: borderline
Really good stuff, listened to it recently and enjoyed it, enjoyed on this listen to. Really great gear
I've never heard of this artist, but enjoyed the album.
Don't think I've ever heard Solange Knowles sing before but I really enjoyed this album. Nice and eclectic. The interludes I thought added a great deal, broke up the songs and was a nice way to introduce the next number. Lovely voice.
Really good! Great RnB album with really unique tracks, I listened to this twice through. Easily 80/100
Oh man. I've always heard this album's great, but I've never been a big R&B fan. But listening to it now. I get it. It's incredibly smooth. A little jazzy at times with songs like Where Do We Go, a lot of soul and R&B. Just a great vibe throughout the whole thing. Definitely an album I'll go back to and pick apart.
Ik vond het tof om eens goed in dit album te duiken. Ik wist natuurlijk dat Solange de zus is van Beyoncé, maar ik had me nooit echt in haar muziek verdiept. Verrassend album. De sound past perfect bij haar stem: warm, dromerig en soms bijna fragiel, maar wel met een duidelijke identiteit. Het geheel voelt heel consistent en verveelt niet. Er zit genoeg afwisseling in om het interessant te houden zonder dat het zijn sfeer verliest. Wat ook blijft hangen zijn de thema’s. De interludes met voice notes voegen echt iets toe. Het voelt niet belerend, maar roept wel iets op van bewustwording zonder dat het geforceerd aanvoelt.
a beautiful tribute to the challenges of black creatives
I don't listen to much R&B but this album is great. Soothing, soulful, comforting.
Powerful themes, angelic singing, and beautiful piano. The transitions on this album were so seamless and perfect. However, the songs were kind of samey and none of them really jump out, making it hard to actually pick a favorite. Favorite Track: Borderline (An Ode to Self Care)
4 maybe a bit more.
To jest wielowarstwowe
Very good album. It’s not my style, but I enjoyed it. I also thought the concept was very important. 4 stars
Cool
4.5/5
very refined and relaxing R&B here. lots of very graceful tracks with lots of interludes every few songs... i can definitely hear why this album got to the top spot on the billboard, with its production value and large center on identity. this album also has a large number of features from other artists which is cool too!
I had never listened to her before. She sounds a bit like a next generation Sade. I like the inclusion of spoken word.
Liked her previous work. A lot of jazzy vibes here but some songs are exceptional
Better than her sis.
Unexpectedly good. I like the interludes a lot, especially from Master P. Love that guy, well used to high school anyway. Sitting at 3.5 solid stars..going to tip it over after another listen on day #2.
I'm kind of surprised we don't get any of Beyonce's most ambitious albums on this list? Anyway, A Seat at the Table feels less immediate than the songs I've heard from Beyonce's albums, but I like it! Nothing really stuck out in particular honestly, but I'm just a fan in general of how neo-soul albums sound and Solange has a good voice.
Красивый взрослый альбом, с каждым прослушиванием все больший отклик во мне находит. Намного интереснее всего, что делала ее сестра. Жаль, что Соланж давно ничего нового уже не выпускала. 4 отметеленных Jay-Z в лифте из 5
I enjoyed this more than most of what I’ve heard from Beyonce actually
I get why I never actually paid attention to this before, but it was surprisingly pleasant to focus on.
I knew this was popular, but hadn’t listened before. Really nice, and Cranes in the Sky was a highlight.
Solid album Unique listening experience with the structure and interludes Celebrates blackness and culture She has a great voice I liked When I Get Home a little more
It’s a vibe
An unexpected gem. Really enjoyable rnb with elements of soul.
3.5/5. A well produced modern R&B album which deals in themes such as self healing and black empowerment. Was maybe a bit longer than it needed to be IMO but when it hits there is some great songs to be found like “weary” or “FUBU.”
Loved the style and sound, production was a bit too much at times and I’m not big on the interludes, but still good overall
Was going to give a 3 for the nice music but the commentary on the Black experience and history elevates it.
I loved this album. That said, I don’t think I’d ever listen to it again. But I loved the vibe and the production. I couldn’t even pick out a single from the record, but it flowed from front to back extremely well. After sitting on my thoughts overnight, I confirm my stance. This is a really good album.
Really nice with a great mix of funk, neo soul, psychedelic soul and contemporary R&B!
Fav song borderline
Solange’s voice is gorgeous. It’s so delicate but also powerful. The Sampha feature is amazing I didn’t know they had a song together but their styles work so well combined. It’s hard to explain what’s so nice about this album but it’s beautifully constructed and it feels very clean. Lil Wayne feature is fun too. Fav songs: weary, cranes in the sky, mad
Surprisingly good pop album. This exceeded my expectations and I would listen to it again.
My daughter listens to a lot of “pop radio,” and I think Solange is as good as, if not better than, most of the so-called divas I overhear several times a day. In addition to a seat at the table, she definitely deserves more air-time around here.
such a sweet sound 4.5
Holy interlude. Tons of filler. With a good voice and a sister like Beyoncé I can see why she’s so sad. Couple songs added to the rotation.
superb album. deserves its spot on the list. i loved how you can really see the work that solange poured into this and how interwoven the story she is trying to communicate with her features and collaborators. the interludes (fav was the tina interlude) fit in well with the piece and it really explores the inner workings of the album, the message, and solange herself. top tracks: crane in the sky- love that bassline. funky song that is very melodic. where do we go : these harmonies….. borderline: love the jazzy piano!! fubu: slow, very smooth
Mmh...I like it...surprise myself
The promise fulfilled by When I Get Home
Really unique production, awesome features including Sampha! Definitely was feeling this one
So I have never listened to this album before, admittedly because she is Beyonce’s sister, and I just am not a fan of Beyonce. So when I saw this pop up, I acquiesced and said sure, let’s give this album its fair shot. I must say Solange’s voice is so much better to listen to. If I had one issue here, is that I felt the album started off a bit weakly, but it gets stronger as it goes on. Don’t think this will be one I go back to often, but I’m glad I finally listened to it, because it was enjoyable. 3.5 / 5
Between 2006-2017 I listened to very little music. In high school I basically listened to only 4 bands and some random scraps of music I picked up from commercials or YouTube videos. In 2009 I stopped listening to music all together and became exclusively a podcast guy. It is funny to me now that one of the rare albums I actually listened to during the dark age was this album. Somehow SOLANGE KNOWLES pushed through the barrier?
A wonderful, musical insight into the experience of so many Americans.
Very cool and chill, also very funky and groovy. I liked it a lot!
Hadn't heard this one before, really liking a lot of these songs
I recently have had this, and The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, which at face value may be somewhat similar. However, not so! This is so much more interesting musically, lyrically, production, the whole thing. Some of the guest spots can be a bit annoying, and the interludes and some of the songs drag a bit towards the end of the record, but I really enjoyed this.
This one started off real strong. I felt it lose potency along the way, and by the last few tracks I was hoping it to finish. Maybe I need to let the details seep in a little more, or maybe it'd actually be beneficial to shave off 5 minutes somehow. I find it very strong conceptually, being brought to the adult table, listening in on family and the hows and whys we are often excluded from at a young age. In that sense it's a beautiful piece, very emotionally aware, very open and intimate. 3.8/5
It's fine r&b. It was enjoyable but not something that really blew me away. That said, I don't love this genre so maybe it's me?
8/10 Favorites: Mad Don’t Wish Me Well
It is the instrumentation that lifts this album as much as anything else. Solange’s vocals are good but i fear against a normal pop/rnb production they would be lost in the numbers of similar artists. However the production on this is great and elevates each song to make them interesting and complement Solange’s vocals perfectly.
Cranes in the sky one of the best songs of 21st century Lacks a punch a bit overall but still great listen Cant fully relate to the message due to my demography Junie is great
Wow. Great! Think Anita Baker, May J Blige, Roberta Flack, etc. Great voice, nice music. A bit racist, as expected……
J’ai beaucoup aimé!
Pretty good album. Vocals are airy and lush, the production is clean bouncy and crispy, and the overall sound is very professional. The meaning and message of this album hits deep with topics about the KKK as-well as black culture/ community. Overall really good album 4/5.
I had heard of Solange before, but never listened to her. Glad I did, because this is great
Já havia ouvido antes, porém, desta vez a sensação foi diferente. Consegui perceber melhor a voz deliciosa da Solange, em harmonia com a melodia incrível, criando uma atmosfera única. Album coeso e gostoso de ouvir. R&B de altíssima qualidade.
What a beautiful sound. The music is rooted in easygoing grooves with deep, funky bass lines. And Solange floats over all of it, sounding ethereal. The style is a mix of R&B, jazz, funk, and pop. It’s a distinct sound and I love putting it on and just soaking in it. Great album cover. I love how those hair clips look like butterflies.
When I saw this album cover I was immediately brought back to the time period when it came out, as I had a bunch of friends who loved this album and recommended it to me. Unfortunately it was put in the backlog and I never got to it but I'm happy to be listening to it now! Right away I'm pulled in, she's got a great voice, the music is a bit sparse but blooms in a really nice organic manner. I'm going to get picky already on the second track, "Weary". There's this type of drum beat that I like here that is very specific- a subdivided tom groove. It's nice! But when it goes throughout a whole song and never gives me any snare it ultimately feels kind of anticlimactic. This is a personal taste thing, but it's something that's always bothered me a little bit with these types of grooves- when you get teased that there's a snare coming (or some kind of higher pitched percussion sound) but it never comes. I absolutely love in track 3 "Cranes in the Sky", right at 1:33 the drummer loses the tempo slightly and they left it in. I love little human elements like these and I love the idea of leaving it in and not "fixing" it in a period of time where most music is overly quantized. Awesome! Unfortunately the more I listen the more I'm realizing that this album doesn't give me enough compositionally. There's so many good ideas in it, there's so many beautiful parts and layers, but I so often want Solange to just give me a good verse with good lyrics and to keep it in my head after the song is over. Too often by the middle part of the album did I find myself thinking "ah yea here we go another vowel vocal section with a bunch of layers that doesn't do much besides show me her technical prowess". I hate that I'm being a hater with it, but it's too much of a security blanket for her. Not sure what to do with the next part in the song? Just add in another "oooh" "aah" part with a bunch of layers and call it a day. Sometimes I feel bad for docking some points on these reviews when I'm mentioning a facet that might very well be that artists "thing" or "sound", but if I get a whole album where I expect a song to explode or move or change and I get given this same color over and over I really can't help but be let down. By the end I'm a little bit frustrated. Her voice is amazing; it is smooth, subtle when she wants it to be, and in the front of the mix when she wants. The band is very tight, and yet still very human and organic sounding. I just want some more composition, I want some more songs. Still, this album is a 4/5 for me. My critique is hitting an artist that has a great sound and my only frustration is that it could have been even better.
It was surprisingly good actually, I was expecting... I don't know what but this was way better than I thought it would be.
Let's get the one detail out of the way when discussing Solange that is gonna loom over. She is indeed the younger sister of Beyoncé. In fact, she started as a backup dancer for Destiny's Child before signing to their father's record label, and her first solo release was very much in line with the hip-hop-inspired R&B of the era her sister thrived in. But that's where the comparisons largely stop. Solange followed up with a more tasteful retro-throwback record and subsequent EP, and then this record won a ton of critical acclaim. So, what did we get with A Seat at the Table? Well, this is the kind of record that I feel is going to work wonders in terms of the content more than the presentation. With that said, let's start with that content. If there's one aspect that remains true throughout the listen, Solange is direct in her social commentary, sprinkling in both well-spoken connecting interludes and some surprisingly poignant guest verses from Lil' Wayne on "Mad" and the team-up of BJ the Chicago Kid and The-Dream on "F.U.B.U.". That commentary in question being healing and self-empowerment, by black women, for black women, reclaiming an inner peace in spite of a world that would choose to ignore, erase, or marginalize them. Now, I have to admit that I'm not the intended audience - I'm a white guy, plain and simple. But that doesn't mean I can't respect and even appreciate the plight, especially with how straightforward and insightful Solange cuts into. From dealing with the frustration to explain herself to a friend on "Mad", to being done compromising herself to satisfy other people on "Don't You Wait" and "Don't Touch My Hair", to carving out her own path and choosing to leave people behind on "F.U.B.U.", the larger theme is Solange moving on, not caring if a white audience that may have loved her previous work won't get on board with this new direction. On the flip side, with cuts like "Junie" opposite and uncredited André 3000 about cultural appropriation, and her mother's spoken interlude "Tina Taught Me" about how black positivity is not the same as reverse racism, it's clear she's not against white culture enjoying or embracing her music... it's just that they're not going to be the focus anymore in her life. This album is very acute in its uncompromising position, probably the closest I could get to feeling how black audiences feel when culture ignores them entirely. I don't mind being on the outside looking in to try and understand. Also helping matters is how much I like the production throughout this record - the sharper snares that crop up on "Rise" as Solange accepts her own vulnerability, the presence of cello on "Cranes in the Sky" as she searches for her escape, the sandy yet blocky beat on "Mad", the brash piano strokes against the kick beat on "Where Do We Go", the heavy presence of synths and supple bass on "Don't You Wait" that also show up on the funky "Junie" and the sharper electronic tinge of "Don't Wish Me Well". Even if I wasn't much into the wiry synth on "Don't Touch My Hair", it's still got a nice driving beat as Solange shared her cadence with Sampha. But, this is where the presentation comes in, and I wish I could connect more. Solange herself has a very pleasant voice to listen to, yet I didn't feel as gripped by her as much as I'd like to be. It really feels like the content was the focus of this record more than any performance to help elevate or accentuate it. That problem also feeds into the pacing of this album. While it runs under an hour, it feels longer, between Master P's interludes in the second half that come off oddly juxtaposed to the more meditative pace of the surrounding tracks, and the penultimate "Scales" that ends things on an oddly downbeat note, even if I liked the interplay between Solange and Kelela. Then again, it's possible the target audience for this record won't care about pacing or atmosphere, and that's fine. After all, Solange established on this record that she does not care what I or anyone else thinks about her musical direction, which, again, I liked for the most part. A Seat at the Table is the sort of thought-provoking, well-produced experience that can lead into a larger discussion. Even if I feel the album could be trimmed down for a more effective impact, that doesn't stop how poignant and forward-looking Solange has established herself.
Nice RnB sound with solid rap features throughout. Solid throughout with a little bit of repition throughout.
RnB Singer Songwriter Album. Schön zu hören, angenehme Atmosphäre, tolle Stimme. 4/5
Production and vocals are phenomenal, tracks flow together seamlessly. 1st half of the album is the standout to me on first listen. Mad, Rise, and Cranes in the Sky are my most memorable tracks
Very cool and soulful. I dig this.
Good atmosphere and nice to listen to, a couple of the early tracks were extra unique and engaging to hear before the album settled into something a little more consistent but it's still worthwhile
I let out a sigh of relief when this popped up. Very good album and I really wish she had more stuff
Que álbum legal!! Muito bom, todos os interludes e músicas. Eu gosto muito de álbum bem feito, e esse é um deles. Além de alguns interludes, gostei muito de Rise, Don't Touch My Hair, Junie e Scales
Great album. Don’t love all the singing and instrumentals, they have a certain jazzy vibe that’s a bit too discordant for my liking. But the thematic nature and flow of the album is excellent. I think it would reward on relistens
Chill
Soulful. Cameos by Masta P! 4/5
285/1089 - The overall vibe/tone of the album is cool and Solange is a great singer but the songs are a bit too repetitive for my taste. Not sure if this is a high 3 or a low 4. Idk if this is on my end but things seem to be clipping/very fuzzy when they get loud.
Really into Solange's angelic voice and consistent grooves. It's so smooth that it very occasionally gets tiring. Would be a perfect 30-40 minute album. Fav tracks: Weary, Cranes in the Sky, Junie. Saved a song: Y RYM: N
A really good independent find for me when it came out, and then I found out who her sister was. Solange stands all on her own
Great album. I liked! Never heard before.
I distinctly remember this coming out and enjoying it while being a bit confused by the level of praise. I very much enjoy the record, and Cranes In The Sky is untouchable, but the amout of interludes drags this down a bit for me. Still, a worthy inclusion for the genre and the time. 3.5/5
Lauryn Hill but modernized. I liked it less than Lauryn Hill's Miseducation but overall a fan.
I don't know if it was because I immediately started this after an album I hated, but I like the vibe of this one right from the start. It's not an incredible album, and it's not one I really see myself returning to, but I was pleasantly surprised that I enjoyed this one from start to finish.
an album that not only sounds beautiful but also speaks to the heart, making it a modern classic that celebrates self-worth and cultural pride.
Remember really enjoying this album when it came out, especially the song “Mad” with Lil Wayne. Songs are good/catchy neo-soul, her voice is pleasant, and it’s not overly long or stuffed with filler. Having said that, some of the spoken interludes feel a little forced at this point and even dated (i know it’s 2016) but overall I enjoy this album. 3.5 stars with a round-up because Q-Tip is involved.
4.5/5
Stilet, lækkert og fantastiske vokalpræstationer, men ikke noget jeg nødvendigvis vender tilbage til ofte
chillin', vibin', not gettin' it completely probably because of the language barrier
good, not my cup of tea. i liked the track with lil wayne, reminded me of early chance
That Knowles family seems to be pretty talented. But seriously: listening to this again reminded me of how much I loved Junie when it first came out--well, and the whole album, really.
Älskar Solange! Fint album, dock inte min favorit av hennes då den är lite för lugn och deppig. + Cranes in the sky, otrolig melodi
Would not buy.
Haven't listened to Solange's previous work, but I'm guessing this is much more personal. Love the half-mutterings about Black identity and the struggles that go with it but the immense pride as well sprinkled throughout. Also, Cranes in the Sky is a great ballad. Easily one of the best of the second half of the 2010s decade.
Solange seems like she's reaching beyond just R&B and soul. Yes, her music contains essences of these styles, but with modern production, songs in various styles and interludes focusing on black power, A Seat at the Table feels more like a deeply personal artistic statement for Solange. Solange's voice is great and she absolutely captures a vibe I deeply appreciate.
8/10
I thought this was a really good listen.
Dude, this is fuckin’ GOOD.
Very nice, chill album. The vocals are very nice, it's just that nothing really happens in the songs, although they do have that calm vibe, so it's great having in the background while doing stuff, or even playing that at a fancy restaurant would be nice.
Favorite Track: F.U.B.U.
Dette høres ut som modernisert 70-talls Motown, da superstjernene hadde pumpet ut hit på hit og endelig fikk frihet til å lage auteur-plater om samfunnsproblemer og identitet. Solange skriver sitt eget kapittel av den historien, som en naturlig etterkommer av for eksempel What’s Going On. Hun pakker politiske og personlige refleksjoner inn i silkemyk soul, minimalistisk funk og små doser psykedelisk R&B. Derfor finner man kanskje ikke store bangers her, men man finner en helhet. Når jeg holder plata opp mot Gaye, Mayfield og Wonder, er det kanskje akkurat fraværet av bangers som gjør at den ikke helt når opp. Det er nok en personlig preferanse, men for meg ligger magien i når kunstnere klarer å levere både helhet og hits
Great album to start!
Psychedelic Soul. Great album to start this musical journey. Great songs with outstanding production. The vocals, drums, bass, piano, horn inflections! It feels like you are sitting in the room with the musicians. Definitely has a vibe to the album- Black America runs throughout. The interludes and song themes and album title definitely tell a story and it flows together so effortlessly. Elements of Badu, Beyonce, Withers, Gil Scott-Heron, The Roots, and more, yet uniquely Solange and fresh sounding at the same time. Too many highlights to name, nothing about this album I did not like.
This was a very impactful album that’s heavily driven by mood and texture. It definitely sits within the world of contemporary R&B and neo soul, but what really stood out to me was the way she uses recorded conversations and layers them into the music. It plays perfectly into the somber, ambient vibe of the album and adds a deeper sense of intimacy. It breaks the ice and makes you feel like you’re right there in the room with them.
Songwriting felt tight. Good production that builds a palpable atmosphere
Powerful. Cool to hear her after not listening since 2002.
This album is great, don’t get me wrong, but being that I am NOT a black woman in America I think a lot of it is lost on me. Excellent concept, songwriting, and sonics. Might revisit it later in a different headspace, but for now it gets 3.5/4 stars. … on my second listen and as predicted, It’s a much better experience. The minimalism of the beats, the softness of the vocals… this is a modern jazz album. It gives off “whispered conversations at a speakeasy” vibes that make the listener “lean in” to hear the story better. I’m still not a black woman though, so most of its meaning probably still eludes me.
I thought this was interesting, liked the minimalist production and her vocals but the number of interludes did break up the flow of the album for me and make it seem longer than it's runtime. I'm going for a light 4 because I think I could really like it with a few more listens.
Deserved.
This was a very impactful album that’s heavily driven by mood and texture. It definitely sits within the world of contemporary R&B and neo soul, but what really stood out to me was the way she uses recorded conversations and layers them into the music. It plays perfectly into the somber, ambient vibe of the album and adds a deeper sense of intimacy. It breaks the ice and makes you feel like you’re right there in the room with them.
Solange is not breaking new grounds when it comes to her music, but her reflexivity and vulnerability elevate the songs to a higher level.
Modern R&B - reminiscent of Frank Ocean's Channel Orange which isn't super surprising considering CO came out in 2012 - and A Seat at the Table was released in 2016. Beautiful stacked harmonies, sparse modern instrumentation with some great features (Lil Wayne, Sampha, Q-Tip, and more).
Nice as background music or to lie down in bed, close your eyes and listen. Very good!
Enjoyed this album.
I loveeeee this album. I'm so happy it made it on to the 1001 albums. Taking off a point because it is a bit too long and from borderline, the album peters out. 4/5
Wasn’t familiar with this album but had a few songs I really enjoyed. Best ones for me were Rise and Junie.
I listen to this on repeat several years ago. Really like it
Fantastic Latin grooves and some funky slap bass lines. Didn’t understand a word but sure makes you want ti dance.
Absolutely gorgeous album. Solange carries this record so fluidly with her beautiful voice and lyrics. The production is so calming and pleasant on the ears. I listened to this when it first came out but forgot about it. This was a nice reminder because it is a very good record.
at certain points of this album, i really did believe i could go to sleep and wake up and be back in 2016. beautiful, and probably more of a time capsule to me than it deserves to be.
first woman of color album on this project, couldnt be happier - mix of soothing, jazz, and hip-hop with a message on black culture
I really liked this album. I wasn’t sure what to expect. This was just great. Definitely I would listen again.
4/5
Partly very nice. Like the soul sound although at times it goes too much into pop in my opinion. But overall a nice album.
Slow, chill, not for me but had a clearly said what was set out to be said and sounded good doing it
This woman has been through some shit. The music is good, but there’s no hope in it. Listening to the whole album really brought me down.
Gorgeous production on this. The interludes are reminiscent of Robert Glaper's Black Radio 2. Favourite tracks: Rise (love the slightly 'hot' kick drum; punchy!), Weary, Cranes in the Sky, Where Do We Go.
This was unexpectedly good. Each song is better than anything Beyonce has ever done. It's smooth R'n'B with a genre cross into some other styles. Enjoyable, but some of the chit chat gets annoying.
Pretty cool
Another album I can remember listening to shortly after it dropped. Solange's vocals are the clear standout here, but an underrated aspect about this album is the cohesiveness of it all. The songs flow from one to the next so flawlessly. Solange manages to do this while also having every song sound unique. It makes for a great listening experience.
Not for me, but not without merit. I like the social justice bend here in the lyrics.
This is an engaging, compelling, and interesting album. I am an almost 60 year old white guy, but this album really worked for me. At times, I didn't feel like I was the intended audience, but at other times, I felt that it was speaking directly to me. Musically, it was very well done. I don't have the vocabulary to explain it all, but its empirical value is evident. Well done.
this was really beautiful
4.5/5. More than just Beyoncé’s sister, this is seriously the shit.
Really enjoyed this. A great example of an album I definitely would not have heard without running through this list. Cool production throughout, and a refreshing perspective
Rated this as a 3* when Apple’s top 100 albums came out. I enjoyed it much more this time. Still not sure it deserves the level of praise it receives but it is a solid album. Rounding up. 3.5/5
4 stars for the meaning of the album but it wasn't my favorite sonically. Lil wayne got a feature tho
Meaningful and powerful verbal interludes with background music. The music itself is beautiful, mellow, dreamy. What a great album.
This is as good as everyone says; however, her first album has some all time hits! TONY??! Come on.
"A Seat at the Table" is the third studio album by American singer-songwriter Solange. Neo soul, funk, R&B and pyschedelic soul are the Wiki-listed genres. OK. It was a project for Solange on identity, independence, grief and healing with songs written with a piano. A variety of collaborators were involved including Lil' Wayne and Q-Tip and 18 people are credited as producers. The album was and is widely acclaimed. Commercially, it reached #1 in the US and #17 in the UK. The album begins with "Rise." Hi-hat drums and soulful vocals. Inspired by by the police killings in Ferguson and Baltimore. "Weary" is a mellow downlow R&B song. Bass, organ and guitar. Very subtle and suitable for the theme of weariness and loneliness. The sole single "Crane in the Sky" was written eight years prior to album. Nice strong, emotional vocals as Solange sings of of alleviating pain with alcohol, music and sex. Lil' Wayne makes a guest appearance in "Mad." Solange is definitely amping up the theme seriousness as this song deals with racism, indignation and anger. Nice layered high-pitched vocals. "Don't Touch My Hair" gets a slow R&B groove going. The song builds. Sampha joins in on backing vocals. A song about the common experiences of black women. Solange goes back to the weariness theme in "Borderline (An Ode to Self Care)." An electronic dance beat, a spiraling synth and smooth R&B. And, Q-Tip makes a guest appearance. This album has , musically, a downlow, soulful, chill and subtle vibe. I don't want to say a minimalist approach to instruments but most songs just have drums, bass, guitar and piano/organ with not really a dominant one. The instruments tend to be in the background and support the vocals. It's interesting since there are 18 different producers, you would think you might get overproduction. Not at all. A lot of songs had spoken-word interludes which essentially spelled out their themes. I thought this worked really well since you didn't have to go searching for their meaning. Sometimes, you do want to search. Mostly soul and R&B with some funk. Overall, a really good and solid album.
Really good album. It was a bit slow and melodic for my personal taste but the overall progression of the album with the interludes was very arresting. I really enjoyed this!
Highly creative songwriting and production.
This is good.
Excellent music
I came to this late only a few years ago, but I remember the buzz, and the brilliant Cranes in the Sky without knowing it was her. Far better, and more important and powerful, than any of the Bouncy albums I've heard including the ones in this book, neither of which I enjoyed. Mad, FUBU, Rise, Weary, Junie all great. Just a really great neo-soul record with a timely message. It's really of a piece, often records filled with skits or interludes get annoying but here they simply work, adding to the vibe. Not perfect as there's a couple of lulls, but it's still engaging throughout and is scoring highly for me.
A really good album, I liked Cranes in the sky the most.
oh hell yeah absolutely lovely and raw af. i like the interludes too good ass album
Don’t You Wait to listen to this album. It will make you Rise up and move!
A Seat at the Table by Solange is brilliantly written. Each track tells a story and flows on to the next. It’s smooth, soul with a real voice behind it. It’s one to put on when you’re wanting empowerment. Notable tracks: all of them.
Kannte bisher nur Cranes in the Sky, sehr gutes Lied, war gespannt auf den Rest. Wurde nicht enttäuscht, selbst die Interludes nervten nicht ganz so sehr.
First time listening to this, and really enjoyed. Feels cohesive as an album, good sound, and well produced. Nice.
Beautiful and gentle. Seducing us into her love and people. Sometimes a little dull, and rarely compelling. But if I give it more of a chance, I'm pretty sure I will be hooked. 4/5
Its way softer and melodic than I thought it would be considering some of the featured artists. I think I was in the right headspace for this when I heard it too, it sits in a weird spot for me, I cant see myself listening to it again, but it was still enjoyable. She's definitely got a great voice, very poetic.
If this were a Roald Dahl book it would be called “Solange Makes a Statement”