It seems as the current recipe for outstanding critical acclaim among music artists simply boils down to a numerical title (see Adele and Beyoncé), and Brandy Norwood’s sixth studio album, “Two Eleven” is no exception. Why “Two Eleven,” though? These two numbers hold great significance in Norwood’s life, representing February 11, the date of her birth, as well as the passing of her mentor Whitney Houston.
“She was my idol. She meant everything to me,” Brandy told Entertainment Tonight. “The passing of her on my birthday just solidifies a bond between us that, first of all, would never be broken, but it’s just also I feel like I have a responsibility to her.”
M.I.A. for the past four years, the “Have You Ever” vocalist finally returned to the music scene after parting ways with former label Epic Records following the mediocre performance of her 2008 LP “Human.” Brandy is now back with a newfound confidence that both critics and fans can’t help but acknowledge.
On “Two Eleven,” Brandy ditches the heartache and coy ballads and instead embraces a more mature, and sensual tone; the album is ultimately is a celebration of love. Brandy incorporates that sweet, sincere R&B that she displayed when she was only a teenager, with some scorchers scattered here and there, bringing a whole new meaning to “sugar and spice” on her new project.
Boasting a variety of sounds, “Two Eleven” has something for everyone. Missing your boo during these cold winter nights? Brandy’s got you covered; the 90s-inspired power ballad “Without You,” and the mid-tempo second single “Wildest Dreams” should do the trick.
The Frank Ocean-penned “Scared of Beautiful” and the Mario Winans co-written “Wish Your Love Away” see Brandy’s rich vocals mix superbly with opulent harmonies that elevate the album’s artistic prowess.
Proving that Moesha is certainly a thing of the past, Brandy turns up the heat a few notches with the instructional sex jam “Paint This House” and head bopper “Can You Hear Me Now?” that cleverly showcases Brandy’s infamously perfect lower register.
From love-sick, to insecure lover, to sensual vixen, Brandy tops it all off with her fair share of up-tempo urban cuts. Following in the footsteps of the Chris Brown-assisted “Put It Down,” the 33-year-old gets slick with the groovy and slightly reggae-infused “Let Me Go” which samples Swedish pop-singer Lykke Li’s “Tonight.”
The laid back mellow ode “Music” even sees Brandy take on a relaxed Aaliyah-esque tone; “Rock the Boat” 2012, maybe? The minimalistic track sees Brandy ditch the vocal acrobatics in exchange for a clean, subtle vocal arrangement.
So, is Brandy’s tribute worthy of a two or an eleven? More importantly, is “Two Eleven” worthy of joining the ranks of the other number-titled projects of Brandy’s peers? Only time will tell, but it can confidently be said that, based on the risks taken with the raw yet “new” R&B approach that Brandy adopted, a good voice always prevails.
By Moriba Cummings
Staff Writer
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