Raven-Symoné Album Review

Raven's new self-titled album leaked this weekend. I'm not ashamed to say I'm a huge Raven fan. I loved her on The Cosby Show, loved-loved her on That's So Raven, and generally think she's super talented. Most people, though, aren't as eager to give her so much credit. Either way, after listening to the album, my thoughts on her as an artist are reaffirmed.

Raven-Symoné reminds me at times of a Brandy album, maybe Never Say Never or Full Moon. Though Raven and Brandy sound nothing alike (I think Raven is more vocally able), some of the songs have that same vibe. At other times, the album sounds like no one else but Raven, possessor of her own brand of funk that works for her because it sounds genuine. And throughout the album, the lyrics are inspired and the songs polished. Her sound is mature and though nothing is inappropriate, there's nothing Disney about this album.

Raven-Symoné is one of those albums that you have to urge people to give a listen, and I'm not really interested in doing that. If you can go in with an open mind about the music, then I think you'll enjoy what you hear. Love Me or Leave Me is currently on repeat, In The Pictures is a nice grower, and her cover of Double Dutch Bus is hot if you're a fan of the original. Anti-Love Song may be the standout track on the album; Raven shines at mid-tempo and the production, courtesy of Knightwritaz, is on point.

I don't think the album sounds like conventional R&B; it has a face and Raven's fingerprints are all over it. Some vibes may overlap, but I couldn't see another artist putting out this album. Or pulling it off. It probably won't get the attention it deserves with next to no promotion, but it's definitely a solid effort that shows growth from Raven's last album, 2004's This Is My Time.