Album: Lyfe Jennings – Lyfe Change

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Lyfe Change is the title of singer/song writer/producer Chester ‘Lyfe’ Jennings’ third studio album and what a refreshing change it is. A soul revolution, it is gritty, unique and honest. The record debuted at number four on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart, selling about 80,000 copies in its first week.

Notable tracks roll out one after the other and the skip button would barely need to be used. The theme of change is apparent throughout the record. Lyfe explores the realities we all have to acknowledge and face. An example is how men treat women as we see in Never Never Land, a song about growing up and the importance of love, and putting the playa days behind you. On Warriors, Lyfe addresses the struggle of overcoming hardships and rising up. It’s Real is about the AIDS epidemic and the need for it to be acknowledged.

Singles so far include the upbeat Cops Up and the melodious Never Never Land which is creeping its way up the US charts. Collaborators on the album include Wyclef Jean, T.I. and Snoop. Lyfe Jennings is undeniably talented, constantly attempting different styles and always coming out on top. His music is original, poignant and most importantly believable. He has had a hard life, losing his father at an early age and then spending ten years in prison at only 14-years-old on charges of arson. He doesn’t shy away from this but uses it as fuel to create his music.

Stylistically Lyfe is a cross between the huskiness and rawness of Wyclef and the soul and depth of D’Angelo, with an old school feel throughout. It’s difficult to pick stand out tracks from Lyfe Change because the whole thing is so extraordinary, but give an extra listen to the honest and heartfelt Warriors, which is beautifully sad but empowering. Also look out for Lyfe’s favourite, Will I Ever, which is a live band song that showcases his impressive vocal range.

When people claim that urban music is not what it used to be they need to give albums like this one a listen. There’s no denying that old school R&B is untouchable. But don’t give up on change.

Available through Columbia Records