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Soul singer/songwriter Lianne La Havas released her sophomore album on July 31st, called Blood. Her debut album Is Your Love Big Enough? was released in 2012. The producers credited on the album are; Stephen McGregor, Matt Hales, Mark Batson, and others.
The first song off of the album is “Unstoppable”. The bass line was real thick in texture, there’s a lot musically happening in this song with a hip hop styled accent on the drums. “Green & Gold” is the second song on the album. It’s biographical, she’s speaking on her childhood and realizing who she is in the second verse because of her roots. “ancient stone, green and gold.” representing her Greek roots. “What You Don’t Do” has a very vintage soul melody. The lyrics are saying you don’t have to say the words “I love you” because she knows through actions. “Tokyo” has a great bass line, the lyrics are talking metaphorically speaking about the distance from love they’re experiencing. “Wonderful” has a nice soft ballad with fine piano playing. The harmonies really bring out the beauty in the lyrics. “Midnight” has nice instrumentation, and the musical change-up at the bridge was moving. “Grow” has a rock vibe, but yet soulful with her vocals. Singing in a high register, highlighting her range as a singer perfectly. The lyrics are saying they have to turn the love up in order to grow in love. “Ghost” is an acoustic ballad, the song is talking about past resentments making it difficult for closure to happen. “Never Get Enough” has a rock/soul driven melody, the last song on the album is “Good Goodbye”. A very elegant, acoustic ballad.
Blood seemed to be about growth musically and personally for Lianne La Havas. This album is very refined, lively, and also calming-peaceful vibe to it as well. It’s pretty amazing how she made the guitar the center-piece on most of this album. Leaving room for the melody to grow throughout each song. The instrumentation not alone brought out the strength and finesse of her voice, also highlighting her sharp skills as a songwriter. You can definitely tell her finding her roots was the inspiration behind this album.
Blood is available in stores now; Also, available for (digital) purchase via iTunes and Amazon Music.
