Album: Taniq - The Life and Times of Love

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Taniq (Talent Unique) are a soulful husband and wife duo and here they bring forth their debut studio album The Life and Times of Love. The album is a self produced, written, arranged and composed collection exploring elements of Jazz, Funk, and Gospel. As the title states, The Life and Times of Love explores and takes the listener on a journey through all facets of a newly-wed relationship, accenting all the positives and the negatives in a meaningful yet light-hearted manner.

Their tracks feature 17 musicians as well as a choir, helping to generate emotions and feelings of yesteryear by bringing back old school instrumental sounds. The first track, Everything About You is performed in a classic duet style where Taniq express their admiration for each other. They sing lyrically back and forth almost in a conversational manner which straight away provides a smooth introduction and insight to the theme of the album.

The song Hands In My Pockets, is sure to be a crowd pleaser as it displays funky production, and thoughtful, genuine lyrics about the love that they share for one another. Carolyn's vocals are dynamic on this album as she headlines most tracks with her sweet, yet strong and soulful voice. Husband Miko also provides smooth vocals and lets his lyrical Hip Hop rhymes flow on the track Cupid Shot Me offering a light transition to the following tracks. A standout feature of Taniq’s style is that their songs are not only deeply rooted in soul but they also offer jazzy melodies with funk inspired horn arrangements, setting it apart from modern artists.

Other highlights here are Breakin’ The Rules, Scale of Sacrifice and Deja My Dear, which have strong messages based around love and issues couples deal with on an everyday basis. Each track is supported by infectious grooves provided by the rhythm section. Their lyrics are so clear and crisp that they transcend the listener on a journey towards feelings of gratitude, peace and tenderness.

Overall, I would recommend this album to anyone who appreciates neo-soul music reminiscent of old school sounds with a hint of jazz. It’s definitely one for mature listeners and those in love…

Available through Taniq Music