Album Review: Mary J. Blige – Strength Of A Woman
2 min read
Mary J. Blige wears her red and bloodied ripped out heart on her sleeve in the impassioned release of music that is Strength Of A Woman. It is no doubt reflects upon her divorce from her husband and manager Martin Isaacs after 13 years of marriage – interesting that this is also her thirteenth studio album. However, it is in no way a typical sad break up album, instead she takes her experience and creates and open journal full of life advice to the colorful palate of rhythm, warm instrumentation, gospel and soul.
Love Yourself featuring Kanye West, drives an important message about self-esteem home. Mary J. Blige reaches deep into core human emotions an extracts gold. Indestructible is particularly poignant and talks to the point of feeling vulnerable in a bad relationship. The track Strength Of A Woman takes a more empowered approach using a commanding bass line.
Quavo, DJ Khaled and Missy Elliot create hip hop magic in the angsty Glow Up, which is seamlessly followed by the quintessential R&B sound Mary J. Blige delivers on U+Me (Love Lesson). Kaytranada and BADBADNOTGOOD lend their smooth vibes to Telling The Truth. When listening to the ballad Smile featuring Prince Charlez, the soulful sound will give you butterflies in your stomach.
Strength Of A Woman makes you feel uplifted and empowered. The variety in musicality, featured talents and lyrics keeps you engaged throughout. In the wise sentiment of the late Carey Fisher, Mary J. Blige took her broken heart and made art.
