It would be next to impossible to discuss “Soldier of Love,” the Sade’s first album in a decade, without two important words: smooth and sensual. Sade’s music has always been built for slow dancing, and “Soldier of Love” fits right into the sexy, slinky slow jams that she and her band has become known for.
Recorded at Peter Gabriel’s Real World Studio, the album debuted at the top of Billboard’s Top 200 and sticks close to the blueprint used on her 1984 debut “Diamond Life” and multi-platinum sellers like “Love Deluxe” or “Lovers Rock.” Each of Sade’s albums has become a staple in smooth jazz circles thanks to the shimmering music and simmering low-boil vocals.
The overall vibe of the album is as expected — low-key and melancholy. After reuniting with the original musicians from “Diamond Life,” and with Sade Adu’s silky vocals still at the forefront, one might expect more of the same, but that’s where “Soldier” separates itself from the rest of her catalog. The arrangements on previous recordings were lush and fully orchestrated, but the focus this time around is understated and at times skeletal. “The Safest Place” and “Be That Easy” are perfect in their simplicity but still retain that exotic, seductive quality.
In another surprising twist, Sade relies more heavily on modern rhythms this time around. “Bring Me Home” and “Skin” have both feet planted firmly in r&b territory, but there’s also a hip-hop undercurrent flowing beneath each song. “Babyfather” is the most radio-friendly track Sade has recorded and wastes no time in pushing the beat way out front. Even if the song is out of character and may disappoint some longtime fans, it certainly adds some variation to the CD.
In perhaps the most unusual track in Sade’s repertoire, the title song features military percussion and a staccato rhythm over the evocative lyrics that compare love to a battleground. The subject of “Soldier of Love” may be familiar turf, but the delivery is way out in leftfield for this artist.
Don’t come to the party expecting another take on “Smooth Operator” or “The Sweetest Taboo.” With “Soldier of Love,” Sade has apparently found a less complicated but still effective way to deliver her soul/jazz siren themes, and it’s well worth checking out.
Rating: W W W 1/2
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