It’s been years since we were first introduced to the kid singing the Coco-Cola jingle on the bus. Since then, that boy has become a model, notable singer, and box office hit. Tyrese now delivers his fans what he’s said to be his final solo album, “Black Rose.”
Tyrese’s approach to the project is genius. In the day where real R&B music isn’t being made anymore, he stuck to the essence of it. The album’s first single “Dumb S**T” is the only song that features a rapper. His pal Snoop Dogg appears on the radio friendly track, along with his rap alter ego Black Ty. Other mid-tempo tracks surrounding the opening of the album are “Picture Perfect” and “Addict.” You’re able to hear the influence of R&B greats on tracks “Waiting on You” which is reminiscent of Al Green & Teddy Pendergrass. “Prior to You” has assistance from his TGT band mate Tank who lends his voice to the background vocals and chorus. The song showcases Tyrese’s vocals front and center, but Tank’s help merely adds to the track instead of overshadowing it.
The albums best moment is its second single “Shame.” It’s bluesy with a throwback sound that speaks of the woes of an unfaithful partner.
“I need your forgiveness and your mercy too, I must be all kind of crazy for what I’ve done to you, …mistakes I’ve made em, but I’m making change for you”
The LP also provides the hypnotizing “Leave” and directly after is the theatrical heartbroken lovesick song “Without My Heart.”
“I gave you life support in your time of need, so how could you turn around and pull the plug on me, you’re the only thing I’ve ever knew about love, two fingers on my neck tryna find my pulse, and now I’m struggling to breath cuz the pain done collapsed my lungs”
Sadly, the album loses its momentum after that track and slightly takes a dive, before being saved by the duet “Rest of Our Lives” with Brandy. The song has a 90’s R&B vibe and is the perfect song for the first dance at a wedding.
“Black Rose” sounds more like a beautiful exit, and less like a grand finale. It’s personal, vulnerable, and sensitive, but its material is full of apologies for his infidelities. Yes, its genuine R&B accompanied by live instruments and traditional R&B topics, but it’s missing memorable moments after it’s first leg. Tyrese has resurrected the R&B genre with “Black Rose,” but it appears the relationship he was trying to salvage couldn’t be saved.