After an exciting album release party and a single review to show off one of her new tracks, Sammy Rae is back with her full album, Sugar. The album is a jazzy mix of smooth instrumentals and sexy lyrics that help Sammy Rae stand out in an EDM world.
“Dirty Brother” is a strong start, truly setting the tone for the album. With lyrics like “something in your Cheshire smile” and “I cut the string that’s holding up my virtue off the floor,” Sammy Rae is clearly a sultry lyricist to be reckoned with. I love the subtle jabs of the beat and how it adds to the song’s meaning.
“Million Dollars” follows up with more of an old school feel, with a solid rock undertone in the music. The melody is slow, but you can see Sammy Rae rocking it at a sort of underground club.
Next comes “Stop Time,” which I still can’t stop jamming to, and then “Shine,” another softer, slower song. This track feels a little more sentimental, and explores Sammy Rae’s high range, backed up by a lovely piano. It may be the most uplifting song on the album, and I almost feel that if you only listen to one song, it might just have to be “Shine.”
“Do Me No Favors” is another slow one that, honestly, gets a little a lost. On its own I can definitely appreciate the staccato lyrics, and at points it reminds me of some Frank Sinatra. It also has some power behind Sammy Rae’s voice, but isn’t my first choice.
Next up is “No One Else Was Alive,” and I immediately love the piano intro. There’s a purity in Sammy Rae’s voice that comes through even more in the lyrics, making it similar in composition and meaning to “Shine.” “No One Else Was Alive” is more romantic, however, with a nostalgia that is almost palpable. “Roof & Walls” continues this theme, both musically and lyrically. Rae’s soft voice captivates here, soothing like a romantic lullaby.
“Something” kicks the beat back up on the album, and also ups the ante on all the exes out there. Sammy Rae takes “throwing shade” to a classy level, and it’s absolutely perfect, with do0-wops and all.
“Let Me Down Easy” keeps up the tempo even if the message is a little more unfortunate, at least compared to “Something.” There’s a fun twang to the backing guitar, and the steady drum beat is a good constant to keep you crooning along.
The album closes with “Ashes,” which can only be compared to an ascension. Sammy Rae is sweet and angelic, accompanied by her piano yet again. She packs the emotion into this track and it’s almost like a beautiful goodbye for us listeners.
Sammy Rae is such a refreshing sound in our crazy world. She is grounded in her work, and what seem like simple, everyday occurrences and emotions, she captures with a beauty and talent that is little known in her genre today. I look forward to what becomes of Sammy Rae’s career, and wish nothing but the best for Sugar’s success. Go check it out today!
Rating: 4/5
Recommended Tracks:
“Something”
“Roof & Walls”
“Ashes”
Filed under: Reviews Tagged: album review, music creates us, new music, sammy rae, sugar
