Corrine Bailey Rae resurfaces back on to the music scene with “The Sea”, whose calming waves bring to the surface Rae’s emotion driven album that showcases a growth in both her songwriting and vocal prowess after turbulent times.  Bailey Rae who co-produced the album has brought together a new batch of musicians that create a brighter and more expressive sound for the soul instrument that is Bailey Rae’s voice. Her expression and dynamic storytelling give “The Sea” a moving tribute to the matters of the heart and the process of love and loss giving it depth and consistency. Although loss and grief are recurring themes, Bailey Rae balances the shadows with light with beauty and wonder.  The second release from the song stress was worth the wait.

Corrine showcases her range altering from deep, breathy vocals with a sultry femininity to a childlike whisper, which can be heard on the album’s first track “ Are You Here”.

“ Are You Here”, reveals that childlike, babyish side to her vocals. A relaxed mix of R&B and Jazz, you can just envision yourself in the Deep South sitting on the sun porch with a glass of sweet tea. The only drawback to the song is that her voice is not present enough in its dynamics and sound at times Rae’s voice still sounds muted. Overall however, it shows growth for Rae as a singer and songwriter. The refreshingly simple arrangements combined with complex jazz inspired chord progressions give the album with it’s largely organic, acoustic feel style and grace.  Songs like “ The Blackest Lily” and “ Love’s On It’s Way” show a darker side of the song stress, and the sense of loss or control we sometimes feel over ourselves, others and life in general.

“ The Blackest Lily” has a sexy rock vibe with a disco feel that exudes soul, style and substance making it one of the strongest and most distinctive tracks on the album.

“ Love’s On It’s Way” is similar to “ The Blackest Lily” in that they share a dark undertone but differ greatly in their arrangement and composition.

With “ Love’s On It’s Way” Rae takes a bare bones approach using piano and minor chords, which produce a dark, melancholy and beautifully haunting portrayal of what it feels like to lose it all. Full of emotion and sadness, it encompasses what the message and emotion of what the albums about.

Bailey Rae proves herself with this her follow up to her debut and will have critics and fans alike praising her efforts while enjoying them.

Tags: Corrine Bailey Rae, The Sea

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