The Bottom Line
If you lean more toward the mature side of the R&B spectrum, and/or appreciate such past and present artists as Anita Baker, Sade and Goapele, then Amel Larrieux's new single, "Weary," should definitely appeal to you. The mid-tempo track defies categorization by combining soft R&B with organic jazz and genuine soulfulness.
Pros
- Meaningful lyrics.
- Vocal passion.
- A deep, soulful vibe.
Cons
- Not commercial enough for mainstream success.
- Puts most other contemporary music to shame.
Description
- Smooth.
- Sophisticated.
- Defies categorization.
Guide Review - Song Review: Amel Larrieux - 'Weary'
It's a wonder why Amel Larrieux hasn't been a more of a commercial success in the United States. She's got all the tools needed for solo stardom - incredible beauty, undeniable charisma and most importantly, superb singing talent.
Larrieux, formerly one half of the duo Groove Theory, has been out of the public eye for a short while, but makes a very welcome return with "Weary," the first single from her upcoming third solo album, Morning.
On "Weary," she sings about longing for a lover, and how she's an independent woman weary of facing life's trials and tribulations alone. And any woman - or man, for that matter - who's ever longed for someone they can trust - and who trusts them, someone who'll kiss their forehead, someone who will never do them wrong, will absolutely relate to "Weary."
This is a song that has almost no weaknesses. Larrieux's voice is strong and emotive, but at the same time has an underlying tenderness that conveys more than a touch of sorrow.
The instrumentation is also top-notch: there's a relaxing, jazz-like feel created by the guitar and percussive rhythms, coupled with a sultry Neo-Soul feel in the singer's voice.
Also, the lyrics are sophisticated, but still accessible enough that listeners of all ages can appreciate them. Simply put, "Weary" is one of Larrieux's best songs yet, and is well-worth the purchase price.
Larrieux, formerly one half of the duo Groove Theory, has been out of the public eye for a short while, but makes a very welcome return with "Weary," the first single from her upcoming third solo album, Morning.
On "Weary," she sings about longing for a lover, and how she's an independent woman weary of facing life's trials and tribulations alone. And any woman - or man, for that matter - who's ever longed for someone they can trust - and who trusts them, someone who'll kiss their forehead, someone who will never do them wrong, will absolutely relate to "Weary."
This is a song that has almost no weaknesses. Larrieux's voice is strong and emotive, but at the same time has an underlying tenderness that conveys more than a touch of sorrow.
The instrumentation is also top-notch: there's a relaxing, jazz-like feel created by the guitar and percussive rhythms, coupled with a sultry Neo-Soul feel in the singer's voice.
Also, the lyrics are sophisticated, but still accessible enough that listeners of all ages can appreciate them. Simply put, "Weary" is one of Larrieux's best songs yet, and is well-worth the purchase price.
