Reviews (page 3 of 8)
Beautiful vocals and Cranes in the Sky is getting added to my playlists. 3.6.
Started off strong then coming to the half way mark to the end it all kind of blurred together. I found myself wanting more and to be brought to a new level. I did like the interludes and how it acted as a prelude to the next song while speaking on black culture and the perspectives on the black experience. I can tell that a lot of thought was put into the formation of this album.
A bit meandering and too long, but I like it.
Cool and fun
Liked this one, although I don't really have the framework to fully grok it. I will come back to this one and try to take it in further. 3.75/5
I liked this more than I thought I would.
Well put-together album with good use of interludes. Feel like I'd have to listen a bunch more to really *get it*, but in principle, I like this a lot. A little mellower than my standard stuff, but maybe has a place in my listening. 3.5, rounded up.
This has been on my to listen to list for about a decade, because of the critical praise it received when it was released. I can see why it got the praise it did when it was released, as it is sonically beautiful. But I also think it was an album of its time, and the time when it was relevant may have passed.
ok queen. but actually there's a lot going on here that I find to be just quite rich. within the context of when it came out, the sheer honesty of it while remaining soft was quite revolutionary. it's an interesting companion to lemonade, and maybe a foil. musically, slightly less giving/generative, but lyrically and conceptually incredibly radical in its vulnerability. miseducation kept coming up in my head as I was listening to it. only downgrading a star because the musical motifs were slightly too repetitive
Really like this album. Its cohesive and works through important topics. Great R&B and Neo-Soul adventure for a shiny Wednesday morning. Haven't listened to it for years and gotta say it aged better to my ear since release.
I'm really digging the electronic elements sprinkled in. I'm really digging the chill vibe of this one. The piano stands out in it as well. My beef with this album is I think it's a bit too long. If you shaved off a few songs, it would be perfect. I was starting to get a little bored by the end of the album.
This was super cool! I really love R&B that is less pop based and more rooted in true R&B, soul, jazz, and psych with the foundation of good songwriting. This record nailed it with all of those elements. Killer songwriting, good beats and bass lines. It has really cool blues and jazz elements throughout, and then really picks up with neo-soul and modern elements. I really loved this.
Great, powerful, vibrant album. Full of simultaneous rage and empowerment and contemplation. Don't Wish Me Well is an all timer.
Haven't listened to this one since it first came out, but I remember enjoying it -- particularly Cranes in the Sky. I don't have a ton to say specifically on this one, other than I really liked the atmosphere and the way it flowed from end to end with the various interludes with Master P speaking to his experiences coming up that were built upon by surrounding songs. Solange pulls in some solid support here. Sampha is a natural fit on album standout Don't Touch My Hair; Q-Tip gives subtle support and production credits on Borderline that has skittering keys that feel as though they were lifted directly from To Pimp a Butterfly; and she somehow managed to fit a Lil' Wayne verse in without it feeling the least bit out of place. Wayne is uncharacteristically cogent and reflective delivering a verse well past his prime. This is a pretty album, and while I enjoyed the ride, I don't expect to be back quickly. Stands at a low 4 for me.
Just some straight up great singing and easy flowing songs. The Interludes weren't too much either which is nice because sometimes they can be a bit long winded. Was not expecting a Lil Wayne sighting in this but I am always down for that.
Great album. Lots of different moods, great songs, superb production.
Nice album and very unique to me.
Cool
Waar haar zus Beyoncé het gooit op spetterende popmuziek, blijft Solange vooral in het neo-soul straatje. Je hoort wel veel gelijkenissen in stemgeluid, maar de manier waarop en context waarin die stem gebruikt is wel heel anders. Ik heb toevallig net een docu gezien over de Soulquarians, de clique wonderlijke artiesten die toonaangevend waren in de retroficatie én modernisering van het soul-genre, eind jaren 90. En als je kijkt naar een aantal van de producties die daar uit geboren werden, dan hoor je dat veel hedendaagse R&B voortborduurt op de organische sound van de Soulquarians. Ik moest er in ieder geval direct aan denken, en de invloeden werden bevestigd toen ik zag dat namen als Raphael Saadiq en Q-Tip zich bemoeiden met de productie van ''A Seat at the Table''. Het heeft hierendaar dezelfde ietwat ongepolijste en bovenal natuurlijk klinkende instrumentatie, dat niet zoals veel reguliere R&B acts binnen de lijntjes blijft. Het is lang niet zo 'puur' en soulful als het betere werk van een D'Angelo, Erykah Badu of J Dilla, maar ik heb me zeker vermaakt. Ze raakt een hoop verschillende elementen aan binnen het soul/funk/r&B spectrum. Dit is absoluut een album dat ik op de neo-soul stapel ga gooien. 7,5/10 Highlights: Where Do We Go F.U.B.U. Don't Wish Me Well
Glad I finally listened to this album
Super interesting songwriting and good performances.
was very happy to see this on this list. i love this album. cranes in the sky and weary are highlights for me
Not really my style but super chill music I'd like to explore more
Dreamy and pointed. Really liked it. Nice way to kick off a lonely morning (in a good way).
On a slightly jaded new-years-day morning, I found this to strike a perfect mood.
That was really cool. I'm mostly uninitiated into the Destiny's Child Extended Universe, so this was pretty new and I dig it. Album Cover (A-) Reminds me of Kehinde Wiley
Not usually a huge R&B guy but this album was great. I had to pause a couple times because goddamn Brock kept calling me which disjointed it a bit but it really fit together nicely.
This was a good album. It's not my first choice of genre, but I liked most of the songs and the features. It ran a little long and got a little stale by the end but it was generally great. The album was very focused on race issues. I wasn't listening actively to every song, but the lyrics were clearly thoughtful and showed her strong stances and experiences. 8/10 8/10
Good album. No doubt it’s a complete album. A body of art however it’s not quite my bag so I didn’t get the enjoyment as I’d like from it.
4/5
This album is great. Solange slapping the shit out of Jay-Z in that elevator is even better.
This was a sad one and fit the mood of the day. I probably gave it a hole star for that...that's not true. It deserves them all
Wtf is this and why is it so good. There's elements of funk here, 80s disco, I wouldn't even be surprised if you told me Autechre did the tunes behind some of the last couple of tracks - surely Junie is sampling then. I'm all for black empowerment music if the message is right, Tina Taught Me is a great inclusion, a great message. Great vocals, great production , great segway/interludes, only thing stopping it from reaching 5* is a few weaker tracks, eg the lil Wayne track. Unnecessary cameo
Feels like a comforting hug a balm to the soul. There's a high note in Cranes in the Sky that split my chest in two. Such wonderful production and her voice just ... ugh!!
Solange - A Seat At The Table. You couldn't have paid me to listen to this before this list. But it's honestly blown me away. It's incredible. It might be controversial to say this, but this is so much better than anything I've heard from Beyonce. Between a 4 and a 5. Another post 2010 album that I avoided that I now really enjoy
This album is exactly the type of album you release if your sister is the biggest artist in the world. Strange, beautiful, indie soul.
I liked this, and I think I might like it more on future listens.
Nije mi više tako dobar kao kad je izašao ali je i dalje super i produkcija je savršena. Obožavam kad snareovi udaraju ovako
A bit whiny
Pretty good record! Much softer and subtler than I expected in sound, and I think the features add quite a bit. The interludes give some good context for the album as well. 8/10
Great stuff. Chill vibes.
General impression: beautiful and culturally specific Detailed review: This is one of those albums that I think is different to different people. By that I mean, it’s so direct and specific in its elucidation of the Black experience that I’m sure it feels much more relatable and deep for Black folks to listen to it than it is for me. And it’s very deep and beautiful and relatable in its own way for me! “Cranes in the Sky” is one of the most 5/5 songs to ever 5/5. It’s literally perfect and is one of the most impactful songs I’ve ever heard. It changed me, to be honest. I love it for very personal reasons. But the rest of the album, while gorgeous and impeccably produced, doesn’t reach that same level of universality. Still, it’s a defining piece of art and is definitely a must-listen. Deeper thoughts (context): “Cranes in the Sky” would be on my top 100 songs of all time. That’s all. Score: 4.3 (4 for this list) Number of albums left to review: 972 Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 16 (including this one) Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 13
This album is good. Some involuntary head bobs for sure. For the vibe she's trying to create with those beats, I would listen to Kruangbin, Massive Attack, or Valerie June first, but I'm happy to add Solange to the mix.
I had never listened to Solange before this, so far on this list there haven’t been many artists that I hadn’t at least heard in passing. This was a pleasant surprise. R&B is probably my least listened to genre. I should say modern R&B, I like older R&B artists like music from early Motown. Anything from the 90s on up though has not clicked for me. That being said, I very much enjoyed this album. I only listened through one time so I didn’t pick up on all of the lyrical themes, but instrumentally it was lovely. I don’t know for sure but it sounded like a lot of real instruments being used. I will definitely listen to this again.
This album really reminded me of 'Sometimes I Might Be Introvert' from Little Simz, lots of interludes, spoken word, mixed into a RnB album. Both great records.
remembered this as middling and overly sanitized but it's actually beautiful and tender and sprawling? 8/10
Quite a lovely soul and r&b record - and a nostalgic snapshot of pre-2016 African American renaissance felt like - hopeful, clear-eyed and intellectual. It almost feels like a completely different dimension now in 2024 and it’s only 8 years. The collaborations are awesome - always love a Lil’ Wayne and a Q-tip appearance and the whole album is not too long. Solange, despite inevitably always being in the shadow of her older sister sings and writes beautifully - and it’s the right balance between poised and soulful - even when she lets her claws out. Nice addition to the list.
Again not my usual sort of thing but it was good! I'd listen again.
I'm impressed. I don't like a lot of modern R&B (too much melisma -- singers turn cart wheels to get from point A to B, when walking would have worked just as well if not better.) But this is very good.
Very emotionally deep album. Overall I enjoyed it.
Solid. I could put this on repeat.
Beyoncé’s little sister she may be, but Solange brings a totally different vibe to her music. Chilled-out and introspective.
++: Interlude: The Glory Is in You, Cranes in the Sky, Interlude: Dad Was Mad, Don't You Wait, Interlude:Tina Taught Me, Don't Touch My Hair, Interlude: This Moment, F.U.B.U., Junie, Don't Wish Me Well, Closing: The Chosen Ones +: Rise, Weary, Mad, Where Do We Go, Interlude: For Us by Us Borderline (An Ode to Self Care, Interlude: I Got So Much Magic, You Can Have It, Interlude: No Limits, Interlude: Pedestals, Scales 8,2/10
4.5 rounded down yea this is rlly fucking good. the interludes are a bit much for me tho…. highlights: cranes in the sky, don’t touch my hair, borderline (an ode to self care), junie (sep 24 2024)
Works well and on multiple levels, as sweet (okay, bittersweet), shiny and savvy R&B and equally as inspirational slice-of-life bit of black experience. The voice is dynamite and the production vibes and atmospheric and well suited to get the most out of it. Not exactly in one's wheelhouse musically, but hard not to like.
Very solid album
Awesome top to bottom. This taught me I can listen to Solange front to back but I can’t say the same for Beyoncé, sorry beyhive
I saw Solange at a festival when she was touring for this album and don’t feel like I really got to appreciate it because the venue did not do it justice. Her voice is great and this album is understate but a really pleasant listen, will definitely revisit
This was a pleasant listen of a lesser represented genre on this list
Great album !
Cool record. I haven't faved a single song but the whole record vibe is so cool, I like it a lot. A very tranquil and moody record. But good moody.
Very pleasant. ...I'm not sure "very pleasant" covers it all as there are clearly interludes where people talk about racism and issues of race, so I'm sure there's more serious contents in the lyrics but I didn't really take that all in on the first listen. The fact is, I am trying to catch up on two weeks of 1001 albums and I couldn't get through the industrial military-band Queen-covers of Laibach, nor the the pop crooning of Adele, so this was something of a balm and I enjoyed the whole album.
Really good.
A beautiful record. A little too rnb for me to give it 5 stars, but absolutely an amazing record
Very pleasantly surprised with this album. She is obviously not her sister, but I have always found Beyonce to be a little overrated. She's certainly talented, and has some very good songs but I have never quite understood the level of hype. But knowing that I was a little worried this would be in the same vein. I ended up really enjoying this album. It's very smooth, chill, and easy to listen to. It's got a bit of funk, and a bit of hip hop mixed in which is enough to keep my attention. Her voice is smoother and more gentle than her sister and I'll be honest, I might prefer it. I love the interludes as well, adds a personal touch. Definitely a great new find to go into my rotation.
glad the generator finally pushed me to listen to this album after years of it being on my “to listen” list. really enjoyed it! and Cranes in the Sky is easily one of the best songs of the 2010s, argue with a wall.
Pretty good. Seems like an album that would continue to be more rewarding with each listen.
I remember when this came out to pretty much universal acclaim, but that apparently wasn’t enough for me to check it out. Not sure why, I enjoyed Beyoncé and Janelle Monae. But yeah this is fantastic. I won’t be ignoring it anymore.
I can't help thinking that I should, at least, have heard of all the artists on a "must listen" list but Solange is completely new to me. That's not to say it's bad, quite the opposite. It is a bit overlong though. Some of the "interludes" could vanish without hurting it.
4/5
Reminds me more of stuff like Massive Attack than US R&B. I like it, but it seems longer than it is. Maybe because all the best songs are in the first half. Favorite song: Don't touch my hair.
Kinda like a Beyoncé record but way cooler and more interesting. Totally stacked credits on this!
I enjoyed this. So similar to some of Beyonces stuff. Wonder how that happened
Touchstone record of the 2010s, made a big splash on release and brought Solange out from her sister’s shadow. Understated, minimalist soul, reminds me of Badu’s Worldwide Underground or Goapele’s Even Closer.
I enjoyed it, calming influence
me surpreendi positivamente
Production on this album is so clean man sheesh. Powerful themes and lyrics to go along with that and we've got a pretty good modern RNB pop album. I think it got a bit samesy as we go, but I'm giving it the benefit of the doubt with a 4. Fav songs: - Cranes in the Sky - Mad - Don't Touch My Hair
OMG her voice is perf! faves are: cranes in the sky makes, mad (I wasn’t mad at the lol wayne feature either), don’t touch my hair (I LUV SAMPHA), F.U.B.U, borderline, Julie, scales Also loved the interludes The better Knowles sister soz Side note: adore this album cover
Very chill, good music to have on in the background as I work
Okay
Better than I expected.
I don't know how to start this review. It's getting hard to come up with unique ways to begin without feeling like the review just starts with no build up. Anyways, this album's good. Solange is an artist that doesn't get much discussion surrounding her. When it comes to musical members of the Knowles family, pop culture gravitates towards her older sister. What's her name again? Oh right, Beyoncé. So yeah, Solange was always going to have a hard time living up to her sister. But honestly, I think she succeeds with this album. I haven't really dived into her sister's work, but I can tell that this album is up there in quality with it. The themes and messaging of this album are quite great and very respectable. Everything feels connected without the album feeling repetitive. I like the singing. The instrumental sound has the modern soul feel that has proven to appeal to me with albums like Kiwanuka. The album has 21 songs, but a lot of them are short interludes, so it's really more like 12 songs. The album fortunately doesn't drag despite lasting for over 50 minutes. Overall, this is a great album that I can see having a positive, somewhat long-lasting legacy. Fantano gave this a light 8 and I kind of have to agree with him. That translates to a light 4/5.
Really lovely. Genuinely well done. Very pretty songs. Easy listening. Saved a bunch. Very impressive.
I'm not generally a fan of this type of R&B/Pop, but this is just really well written and produced. A shame that she's not a bigger deal than she is.
nice 4 stars
Highlights: Weary, Mad, Don't Touch My Hair. In a nutshell: an album dedicated to identity, soul searching and self-empowerment. I must give Solange praise for making a deeply personal album (pardon the cliche). The self-estrangement, connection and healing process that happens to all of us is unique, sacred and intrinsic. And beautiful. Go in with an open mind. Concentrate on the lyrics. Neo-soul and modern R&B may not be everyone's taste, but stay with it. Overall: 7/10
Very gorgeous and lush sounding R&B-soul album, sounds like it could have been made decades into the future. I'd love to come back to this one, the listening experience was very pleasant. Favorite song: Cranes in the Sky Least favorite song: Don't Wish Me Well
Very enjoyable
Came to it with reservations, but the album was surprisingly interesting. The songs had a great style and content together with the message. Found the interludes a little preachy, but not super distracting. Her voice is very soothing.
Amazing album. Heavenly voice. Godly transitions.
4.1 - This really won me round. Struggled to get into it to begin with but found there was a lot of depth to it. I think multiple listens would make it higher
Loved the vibe and the sparse arrangements. A good discovery. Has anyone else noticed she sounds like Siobhan Donaghy?
Beautiful voice and for once “interludes” in an album I could actually see the point of
Really loved this and will be listening again
One will take the hipster little sister over the Homecoming Queen any day. The spoken-word excerpts enhance the mood, and contrast intriguingly to the upper reaches of her voice. One digs the understatedness, sweetness and feeling throughout. Is it wrong to find the melancholy somewhat relaxing? Unique, artful and a pleasure to listen, too. Easy 4.
Did really enjoy this, feels quite unique and pleasent to listen to all the way through
Pretty nice surprise
Based on no knowledge whatsoever I always assumed Solange was the less talented younger sister of Beyonce and Nick, making a living off their reflected glory. This record proves I was massively uninformed and that Solange is a cool, interesting and talented artist in her own right. This is an excellent album. Effortlessly cool, indie infused songs with a clear political message. Rating: 4/5 Playlist track: Cranes in the Sky Date listened: 05/04/24
Beautiful. Cranes in the sky is a masterpiece.
Loved it 4.4
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
This will age amazing, does the interview thing like TPAB
Better than I’d expected. Really loved the layering of vocals.
Great album with a lot of passion strewn through. Fantastic!
It’s good, not my everyday music but nice for a slow day
I've likely missed the point entirely but nothing caught me aside from her obviously exceptional voice.
Lovely production and singing! A very nice album
The better Knowles sister, a very pleasant album.
Am yet to finish the whole album, but what a pleasant surprise. Took me a few tracks to get into it and realize what she was doing. But damn, her seat at the table is more than deserved.
Enjoyed this
Never in a hundred years would I have put this on of my own accord. Absolutely loved it. RnB delight
Bringing 60's sounds back to life. Subtle
I realllly enjoyed this, lyrically and musically. Nicely varied, well structured, well concepted. Sounded great.
8/10, she has a wonderful voice and great beats
A nice blending of different elements of R&B from different eras. Amazing production and a wonderful selection of features help a coherent theme that ties it all together.
I am a fan. Never heard of her before.
I found this unexpectedly good. The easy flow of the music, with the sometimes minimalistic sounds work incredibly well with the message.
This was an interesting listen with the interspersed spoken bits.
Cranes In The Sky // Mad // Don’t Touch My Hair // FUBU // Junie // 4.5/5
Smooth hip hop
Oh, I like it! And I will surely come back to it!
For me this is what this challenge is about. Never would have heard or or listened to this album otherwise. Great production 👍🏻
Album a Day Tandon Scale Rating: 4.75 Standouts: Cranes in the Sky, Mad, Don’t You Wait, where do we go, Junie Foot Notes: 1 I was really hoping for an era change from the past few suggestions so this was a nice surprise 2 Sometimes I was unsure if I wasn’t listening to Beyoncé or not her vocals are incredible 3 is that WAYNE??? 4 albums need more Interlude Would I Listen Again: yes it was a very pleasant album Album Cover Rating: (1-5) 3 Album Name Rating: (1-5) 3
errr, 7.7/10
Being the younger sister of (arguably) the biggest superstar on the planet must be a real double edged sword. On one hand, imagine how many doors are opened through nepotism. On the other, you will inevitably always be in their very large shadow. Thankfully Solange took a different path than trying to imitate her sister's success. Instead she's made much more interesting music that defies categorization. It's somewhere between R&B and Boards of Canada, with a healthy amount of political statements. I'd like to imagine that it speaks to many lonelier thinkers and dreamers who don't quite fit in with their peers but nevertheless have a lot to say.
Neo soul. Está bien. Un 4.
If Beyoncé was more like this, I’d be a bigger Beyoncé fan.
I quite liked this.
It seems to check a lot of the boxes I've set out for soul I don't like but - I like it. It's super cool album and one I'll continue to enjoy.
Voiceover well done and related Solid r&b
Goeie
Sometimes I feel like me and some other people on here are listening to completely different albums, what's with all the Beyonce comparisons simply because they're sisters. This sounds nothing like her, it's also head and shoulders above anything Beyonce has ever released. R&B isn't a genre I get into very much, but this is an exception for sure. Lovely vocals, meaningful lyrics and messages, backed up with super high quality production. 50 minutes goes by barely noticing.
Pretty chill and has some cool musical stuff
I liked this a lot
Kivat äänimaailmat
Un album sympathique dans lequel Solange va proposer à Sampha de prendre place à sa table. Celui-ci s'y installera sans encombre. Pour rappel, sa sœur Beyoncé lui avait fait la même proposition mais avait retiré la chaise au dernier moment, ce qui l'avait fait tomber à la renverse et l'avait traumatisé pendant un certain temps.
Love the organic, minimalist atmosphere. A very pleasant, fresh album. Will need to be revisit to see how much content the album actually has though, because it may be hiding how much it has to say under its minimalist agenda.
Solid R&B album, very soulful. Solange is an underrated artist
I really like this album. Very cool vibe, easy to listen to but deep. A new one to me, but a solid album. It took me two listens to fully appreciate it and it is great.
Such a nice vibe.
Cranes In The Sky kills. Damn, Lil Wayne with the introspective bars! and Solange has this effortless upper register. The harmony work is great. Junie is funky and fun. Don't Wish Me Well is moving. What a fine album.
A snapshot in time.
If your album has a song like "Cranes In the Sky" on it, it probably doesn't matter what the rest of it sounds like.
I really liked this album. I had never heard of this artist tunitl now and this specific album is pretty powerful and at the time in 2016 was probably pretty cutting edge. I liked the narrative pieces in the middle of the album, set up some great songs.
Verrassend genoeg heb ik enorm van deze plaat genoten. Ik had iets melig, poppy verwacht, maar het was een sterke sound met interessante lyrics
this used to be one of my favortie albums, so I think it deserves to be on this list - but looking back it's quite one-note and only really has the beautiful vocals going for it (and prod obv)
BEST SONGS: -Mad -Where Do We Go -Borderline
Rating: 8/10 Best songs: Rise, Cranes in the sky. Don’t you wait
A collection of seemingly dreamy modern R&B songs interspersed with interview like interludes. There isn’t one aspect of this album that doesn’t work. The features are solid. The writing goes hard, especially contrasted with the airy quality of her singing, which is also solid. I have no complaints with the production, structure, or instrumentation. Melodies are original and intriguing. The only aspect that could have been improved on is that there isn’t quite enough excitement going on to hold my interest. Every now and then I’ll get pulled back, but it’s a little too low key and easy to tune out. For the most part, very enjoyable. 4/5
Truly impressive presence of consistency and cohesiveness, but the interlude heaviness was a little distracting at points.
I don’t belong at the table, but I’ll gladly play the part of enthralled fly on the wall.
Powerful messaging, beautiful voice. The music didn't quite do this justice, she could have used a little help there.
Favourite song: Where Do We Go
I always found it odd that people hailed this very good album as a masterpiece then had nothing to say about When I Get Home, an utter masterpiece. Anyway, this *is* a very good one. Solange deserves more.
Really chilled vibes, not the same screeching that you get from her sister. Wouldn't have ever considered this before but would listen to this one again.
3.5
Listened to this a couple of times. I like it.
this album just purely vibes. her voice is immaculate and the production is incredible. float along with the music kinda album that i can get behind
Dug this quite a bit. Wasn't quite sure what to expect, honestly. The processing of vocals was not overdone (thank god) and the interludes were more transitional bits rather than sketches. F.U.B.U. was a bit... jarring. But still has a definite groove to it. Probably my favorite track was "Don't You Wait". That could have been done a whole bunch of different ways, I liked how she sang the chorus. Some of the tracks I imagine coming back to at some point, so it's a pretty positive album for me.
Wowza. The better Knowles sister. To think she was at one point just a back up dancer for Destiny’s Child. ROFFLLLLL Very nearly gave this a 5. May change at some point in the future, who Knowles?
If it wasn't for this 1001 album club I would never of listened to Beyonce's sister but Solange, you stand alone my mate. Well played. Boss album. Is it missing a get up and fucking have it Beyonce type song? Maybe but it's not needed. You do you amirite? I can't give it a 5 however, because I still have to compare and it is not as good as Beyonce's best albums. Solid 4
7/10 I liked this a lot but I feel like it had potential to be better. Like the themes didn’t really come together or build over the course of the album
Decent album, the instrumentals were a little sparse for my taste. In terms of women-led R&B from the 2010s I might have preferred Sza, Hiatus Kaiyote, or Noname. 7/10
My first run-in with Solange was on SNL, where she performed "Cranes in the Sky" and "Don't Touch My Hair." She impressed the hell out of me, and "Cranes in the Sky" will forever be in my regular rotation. I'm pleased to see that I enjoyed this album as much as her SNL appearance. It's clear that she's not just Beyoncé's sister, but an artist in her own right.
Thank God she's not another Beyonce
Very excellent record. I probably need more time with it to fully take in the themes of prejudice and blackness, but this record just sounds so good. Solange has an excellent voice that is highlighted so well in the context of timeless funk and soul music. It's an almost psychedelic soul record and it's an excellent record.
Respect. This was a great r&b album and really surprising.
There has been much talk in recent weeks of the privilege of so-called "nepo babies" in Hollywood, building careers off the connections of their actor and director parents. While nepotism usually is cross-generational, Solange's famous older sister surely had an impact on her record deal and collaborators. But if someone is deserving, there is no shame in leaning on your connections to benefit your talent. And Solange clearly is not lacking for talent. R&B is not my genre. But "A Seat at the Table" is wonderful. Even a brief Lil Wayne appearance didn't deter my head nodding while I enjoyed the chill vibe. "F.U.B.U." almost lost me, but overall it was consistent and enjoyable, and fresh and different from a lot of churchy bombastic R&B I'm used to. In the end, whether or not her familial connections helped launch Solange's career, she is now boosting others around her with an album regarded by numerous industry publications as one of the top albums of the year.
Lovely album. The cover picture is a perfect match to the music.
Ethereal, anthemic. Production is gorgeous on this. Favorite tracks: "Don't You Wait", "Don't Wish Me Well"
Absolutely loved this!!! It made lovely running music today. Chilled beats and vocals, amazing lyrics/poetry, beautiful words and more. I love the old-school hip hop style chatty interlude skits. Great variety. I even helped me find a newer Solange song which was used in my barre classes and I'm obsessed with it but could never find which song it was. Will listen to more Solange music after this for sure.
I thought this was excellent. Cool smooth beats with funky tones. Interesting story telling. Varied album. Glad I've heard this
Groovy R&B. I enjoyed the listen
This is more like what I want from modern music on this list. It's not super pop-y, and I really enjoy that. Plus, I love the electronic and soul influences. I wish the songs differed a little more, but this was still a cool listen. The interludes were interesting. I may be learning that I like interludes in albums. My favourite song was Where Do We Go.
Best Song: Mad. Solange's vocals absolutely stand up on their own, but Lil Wayne adds something special to this. Worst Song: Borderline. Q-Tip didn't really add anything, and the backing trip beats detracted (and contrasted) with the rest of what's on offer. Overall: Refreshing, solid modern soul, without any real slow points on the whole album. Can't definitely see myself returning to this. Candlelit dinner music.
Love the album. Also liked the interludes in between, album flowed seamlessly. Fav tracks: mad, don’t touch my hair, borderline, junie
This album is excellent, the production is perfect on every track, Solange's voice is beautiful, Q-Tip feature, great emotional lyrics, Q-Tip feature, Q-Tip feature, Q-Tip feature, Q-Tip feature, Q-Tip feature, Q-Tip feature, Q-Tip feature, Q-Tip feature, Q-Tip feature, Q-Tip feature, Q-Tip feature, Q-Tip feature, Q-Tip feature, Q-Tip feature, Q-Tip feature, Q-Tip feature, Q-Tip feature, Q-Tip feature, Q-Tip feature, Q-Tip feature, Q-Tip feature, Q-Tip feature, Q-Tip feature, Q-Tip feature, Q-Tip feature, Q-Tip feature, Q-Tip feature, Q-Tip feature Overall this is a great album with a great feature and great production from Q-Tip. My rating: 8.5/10 Need to be on this list: 7/10
Feels like a classic, politically charged with deep soulful feeling. Liked it.
Tosi magee ja tyylikäs! Edelleen freesi soul-setti. Ei edes kalpene siskonsa parhaille levyille.
Perfect album for a chill morning, really got me in the right mindset to get some work done. Listened through twice!
Not too bad. Would listen to again.
Neo soul. Está bien. Un 4.
interessante devo dire. Non male, non un capolavoro, ma 4 stelle le merita.
A very cohesive album, definitely worth a listen.
I enjoyed this — dug the positive, provocative, no apologies nature of the material. The cameos and interstitials created a narrative feel to the album — this seems designed to be listened to as a whole. It's an album that will require more listens to fully appreciate, and I'll circle back to Solange. This was my introduction. Thanks Merryanne's Sound Machine!
I was turned on to this album right after it came out. She played at BAM where my Beyonce-loving buddy worked and he dared utter the words, "I think she's better than Beyonce." Now I'm not going to challenge or agree with that statement. But I'll say that this album immediately enticed me; whereas when another good friend (Michaela!) said she couldn't stop playing Lemonade (which came out the same year as this album), I simply couldn't even get it started. Not the case with Solange's A Seat at the Table. Cranes in the Sky hooked me in real quick. The interludes are great vignettes of African-American culture. The cover--she's Gorgeous!
A smooth subtle and subtle album with interludes that integrate rather than irritate. Good to chill out to. This all makes for a pleasant cruise down the runway, but somehow it never quite takes off...
Kinda R&B/Alicia Keys/India Arie type of a sound. Don't hear this type of music much these days (sounded more like late 1990s), so it was a refreshing change from the typical alternative tunes these days.
10/24/22 Enjoyed this a lot more this time around than in 2016. I like how softly and carefully she sings. Great lil Wayne verse too.
Nice. A bit overstated but a great album
Brilliant listen, very strong middle section too. Fav track: Mad
Cool chill mellow I like
Prima, jazzy, gevarieerd
This is a wonderful example of an album I wouldn't have listened to if it weren't for this project, and one I feel enriched for hearing. It was personal and interesting. I liked Solange's voice (in both meanings) and hearing the stories from her parents. Absolute appreciation. It's not the only soul-baring-over-slow-beats album we've listened to, but it's one I enjoyed more than others (even if it's still not going to be a "go to" record or genre for me). And wow, what a cover picture! Amazing.
Good R&B album. Very easily listenable
The songs and the interludes are very effective storytelling
Never heard this artist before. Delicate, enchanting, soulful and heartfelt. Love the groove running all the way through this album. Solange has a beautiful voice... crystalline, it gets better with every track.
I really enjoyed this album, though it did grow a bit stale. 4/5
I remember liking this
I liked the interludes throughout Cool lofi, R+B vibes Nothing wrong with this album but I'm confident I'll forget about it Great background vibes
excellent
god it’s good 8.5/10
La sis est douée
j'aime le rnb
Wish there were more female artists on this list. Solange is such a stunning singer. Tina's interlude! Preach! Beautiful vibe
I have never really gave Solange a listen before, and definitely this album because of its release year. I regret not hearing this before. Such a chill album and a great artist, must be in the bloodline.
супер приятный альбом, под который классно немного подэнсить а еще интермедии меня очень порадовали, люблю такое
A delightful and soulful record. I can see myself putting this on in the background for numerous occasions.
A Seat at the Table arrived at a neverending turning point in the discussion of what it means to be Black in America, especially a Black woman. Featuring poignant stories told by relatives and out of the box narrators (No Limit's Master P), A Seat at the Table serves as Solange's long overdue coming out party as an artist whose merits and credentials are worthy of appraisal, appreciation and anticipation for what comes next. Favorites: Rise, Weary, Cranes in the Sky, Don't You Wait, Interlude: Tina Taught Me, Don't Touch My Hair, F.U.B.U., Junie, Don't Wish Me Hair, Scales.
Went downhill from 5☆ to 3☆
Not sure what to call this. At times it reminds me of some of Joni Mitchell's work, but at other times it is too pop for this. While I understand the feeling behind the the protest element, this is a little overdone and causes a disonance that could have been avoided without weakening the message.
Funky, got a groove. Throwback feel, but with a modern flair.
Lovely vibes, chilled. Great album.
Would listen again
Typical problem here of critiquing something that is clearly (and very explicitly)made to celebrate and uplift a culture I’m not a member of. I liked it, anyway, and appreciated the artistry, though at times it seemed more like extended meditations than songs. Maybe by design, what do I know.
Nothing happens. Very low energy. Brilliant record!
What a delightfully smooth listen. I didn't really know what to expect but I enjoyed the ride. Cranes in the Sky is great, I love the way Don't Touch My Hair flows into Where Do We Go via the Interlude. The album overall has a good flow.
This was a real smooth listen. A more consistent atmosphere than Beyoncé's self titled album which I got on here recently and can't help but compare it with. It could definitely benefit from more than two play throughs... I liked the interludes a lot - gave the whole thing a kinda documentary air... Fave track - "F.U.B.U.", maybe? Or "Cranes in the Sky"? I need more listens for a proper standout to stand out...
4/5
pretty rnb
first listen a good cultural exchange
Eto me nazad i bas mi je drago jer ovaj album je takvo vajbanje!! Šetnja po suncu i solange, jako opuštajuća kombinacija
Heard it already. Solid album
Not what I expected, soul with a hip-hop edge. Much more subdued and subtle than her sister's more bombastic work.
4.2 + A mature and almost methodical exploration of the black experience that still feels deeply introspective and personal. I love the hushed beauty on tracks like "Rise" and "Don't Touch My Hair." There are some remarkable collaborations here, notably with Lil Wayne and Sampha. Solange sounds in full command, and punches with emotional clarity and intellectual heft.
As someone who doesn't really like R&B that much, and generally dislikes Beyonce whole cloth, this album is EXCELLENT. The songs and interludes fit together really well, and the entire thing has a lovely melodic cohesiveness. It is passionate while still being smooth and laid back.
groovy goopy r&b pop and heartfelt emotions around race relations
R&B was such a big genre in the 2000's with acts such as Ne-Yo, Chris Brown, Rihanna, Usher, and of course Destiny's Child dominating the music scene. But as the 2010's began, EDM stormed the scene and swayed some R&B artists away. But of course, a genre doesn't just die, it evolves no matter the circumstances. And sure enough, a different form of R&B emerged. Because aside from EDM, another separate element is currently storming the scene: minimalism. These are just my observations though, and it's certainly evident in the 2016 R&B album, "A Seat at the Table" by Solange, the younger sister of pop star and former member of Destiny's Child Beyoncé. Just like most R&B songs, it tackles themes such as anger, injustice, violence, alcoholism, etc. but it sounds chill, too chill even. Like... sitting at a seat on the table. Perhaps that is what this is all about: "let's sit at a table together and talk about some issues" instead of "I'M GONNA SCREAM ALL OF THE INJUSTICES AT THE TOP OF MY LUNGS BECAUSE I'M ONE OF THOSE PEOPLE WHOSE VOICES ARE SUBDUED!". Also notable is its minimalist yet slick and passionate sound. Solange's voice is so beautiful and the production and instrumentals are all fascinating. These elements saved the album from being an elevator music-like mess like Thundercat's "Drunk". But still, it's hard to stay engaged with such music. I find the latter half boring, but perhaps because I've been sitting on that seat at the table for too long at that point. But at least, it ENGAGED me. And it impressed me as well.
Production on this is stellar. Maybe the gold standard for modern r&b/neo-soul.
Solange is good. Always impressed with the pipes.
I didn't know such powerful albums existed in the decade. Simple album with great lyricism Never heard of Solange before but now i do and will start following her work.
102. A Seat at the Table - Solange 21 tracks. Knew nothing about her, but this is good. Her vocals really marry up well with the music. Chilled funky soul is just what I needed on this sunny Sunday afternoon. Clapping hands sign Will listen to more of her. Thumbs up 4/5
Smooth, emotional, and creative. I love it, I just love it!
I love this album. I love the sound of it, I love the tunes, the choices are just top notch. She had to have written some of Beyonce's Lemonade, right? And for that matter - where is Lemonade on this list? Offspring was on this list and we haven't hit Lemonade yet? Psssshhhhhh.
6th December 2021 Started on the 6th but finished on the 7th on the living room speaker while putting the weekly briefing together. Really pleasantly surprised by this - more soulful than I expected and has a timeless quality to it, Solange has taken her lead from greats.
Starts off dreamy and complex. Drones a bit towards the end. Terrific R&B album.
211125 18:34 3.5
Some really good tunes. I find the monologues a bit "heard it before". Voice sounds very derivative
Good stuff - my style
Great vocals and love the beats. Some really fantastic song writing to bring it all together.
good vibes, good voice, all chill.
Smooth, soulful album with thoughtful interludes.
damn du god girl
Løkker nutidig rnb, lidt funk/soul præget, vild vokal, god sangskrivning, masser af interludes
Interesting mix of music. Not particularly my tastes but nice, car radio is getting worse and worse… ;(
For some reason I listened when this came out and not since. Not sure why as I played this twice through today and it’s brilliant. Will be playing regularly from here.
1 Song gehört, Zeit für ein Fazit: es ist nicht alles verloren im Musikbusiness des 21. Jahrhunderts. Das Album ist ein bisschen zu lang geraten und das übermäßige Gequatsche nervt. Ein hochmusikalisches Album, dem meiner Ansicht nach ein echter Hit fehlt. Zu gut für 3 ⭐️.
Splendid
Definitely a deserved classic of the 2010s. Powerful and catchy album with an absolutely STACKED set of collaborators.
intro to songs is annoying, but some really great R&B bangers in the mix.
This is a modern masterpiece and it deserves much more of my attention.
Que descoberta interessante. Ótima opção de soul para noite.
One of the best of the past few years, hard to believe it's Beyonce's sister. Cranes in the Sky probably my favourite
You can glean so much insight about others from an album like that. Some good music also
very good - shame about most of the interludes. 4
Weirdly I really liked the interludes on this. I guess they'd get old on repeated listens but normally the interludes on these albums are annoying from the get go. Music was alright too.
I wish I would’ve listened to this sooner. Chill as hell.
I like this album a lot. Really glad it’s on the list.
Layered, built on so many that have come before and original
‘Don’t You Wait’ is a gem. This album is in the same arena as D’Angelo’s ‘Voodoo’ for me. Understated but powerful R&B and a celebration of Black culture.
Definitely a repeat listen
Album art:3
Only made it halfway through (busy day) but what I heard was stellar. Giving a higher rating based on what I heard and will definitely go back to finish. Very fun R&B sound, real laid back but gets its message across loud and clear. Lots of power here!
Yesss please
Very nice and melancholic moods this album put me in. Didn't know about any of the songs but ill listen to it much much more in the near future.
Really great album! I usually don't love interludes but it seems they were very intentionally placed here. I can't believe I've never listened to Solange before- she has a lovely voice!
Første album av en artist jeg ikke en gang har hørt om, og for en positiv overraskelse! Sterk rød tråd om rasisme og afroamerikansk kultur, over en smakfull blanding av soul, RnB og hip-hop. Denne glir rett inn på lesesalsrotasjonen min. Beste låter: F.U.B.U., Weary, Mad (på tross av lil wayne)
Erykah Badu vibes. SOulful and chill. Will listen to more of her material.
Richtig guter rnb.
Laaverly
R&B sofisticado y moderno, voz melosa sin dejar de ser poderosa. A ratos funky, a ratos triphopero. Gran disco.
Very nice
Enjoyed this. Its like an Autobiography. the sons are intensely personal. delivered in a funky style of later Prince (especially on "junie". It has moments of intensity "Weary" and also vulnerability on "where do we go". Its a great album. Just a little sad as its mostly about being black in america. 4/5
Welch Talent, gepaart mit göttlicher Stimme, variantenreichem Instrumentengerüst, das sicher live auch sehr gut diese in Schönheit verwandelte Wut und Trauer wiedergeben vermag. Bei ihr könnte ich Björk‘hafte Genie Verehrung verstehen; ihre Kunst ist nicht einfach eine Demonstration ihres Könnens, sondern zudem embracing & heartwarming gestaltet, dass ich als seltener Tourist dieses R&B Genres mich gern länger in ihrer Nähe aufhalten möchte. Angenehme 4.1
Musik passt sehr gut zum Cover: klar, rein, bisschen edgy aber nicht so dass es das Pop-Publikum verstören würde. Hab ich mal auf großer Bühne live gesehen und wie empfand das alles wie gleichzeitig kaltes klares, aber auch warmes und wohltuendes Wasser. Pastellig aber crisp. Gefällt mir gut und bekommt 3,6 Punkte.
Pretty great blend of r&b, soul, and jazz. Definitely would listen again, and am interested in their other work as well. I'm not sure I can punch it through to 5 stars, but it's a high 4 for sure.
2016: Cranes in the Sky, F.U.B.U, Mad
Good. I have heard of this artist and I have seen this album cover around. Glad I got to listen to it because I enjoyed it and it was good. The features were all good, along with the songs.
This is clearly a great album. Soulful and full of groove!
Is something that gets better the more you listen to it just conditioning yourself to like bad music? Not sure. Either way, this got better with the second listen.
Only found out afterwards that’s she’s Beyoncé’s sister! That’s cool! There a part of me which can hear that in the music, but just as much of me likes how it has huge style difference whilst being in adjacent genres. It really gives indie for some reason??? It did drag in bits, I do feel like these sorta albums work at 40mins a lot more then 55mins
Look, it’s a powerful album that represents being proud of their blackness, which is powerful and it is evident in its how it is produced and the energy it gives off. Other than that, it’s a more modern R&B album that is just a decent pleasant listen. I just learnt that she is Beyoncé’s sister, didn’t expect that.
7/10 - Its really beautiful at points Fav Tracks: Cranes in the Sky, Mad Heard before? ---–- ✅ Saved a Song? ----- ✅ Saved Album? --–-- ❌ Will Listen Again? -- ❌
I liked this!
Not bad for Beyonce's sister
It was alright I guess
It was fine, nothing more
Indie girl R&B that is very enjoyable
A five-star album that just isn't my thing.
I've liked Solange before, but this kind of came and went for me. Weirdly, the interstitials stuck were more memorable than the music. None of it is bad—it just didn't hook me. Imagine being a singer and having a sister who's a generational talent and icon. Kudos to Solange for having the guts to do her own thing.
bbb
Wonderful artist. The lyrics are incredibly empowering and meaningful.
A good album that could be improved by cutting 2/3rds of the interludes. I'd love if we just cut the 47 sec-1min tracks into one song.
Was not what I was expecting from the album cover but actually quite enjoyed it. There were some really interesting beats and melodies with a black power theme
Voice 10/10 Music 5/10 Lyrics 3/10 Lots of collaborators. Lots of spoken word bits. The singing is very good her voice soars effortlessly but to me everything else is just meh.
I won't remember any of this, but I quite enjoyed the listen
A solid album, although, in my opinion, not really too worthy to be on this list... 😀
I absolutely appreciate the message, but I didn't find the music compelling.
Not awful; a decent range of sounds. Def sounds like Beyoncé at times. Could absolutley do without all the “interludes” - just don’t ‘get’ those, on any album.
Nice and chilled and worth a second listen