Solange: 'True'

It’s difficult to mention Solange without mentioning her much more famous and talented sister, Beyoncé. It may even be easier to compare the two and immediately discredit any shred of artistic voice Solange may possess. With producer Devonté Hynes of Blood Orange, Solange dons her best ’80s pop sequins with her latest release, True. This dorm room dance album bounces with countless a catchy tune. The radio friendly “Losing You” harmonizes in an impossibly sweet drone over giggling teens and dream beats. “Locked in Closets” is the private room of the club, where disco balls shine on the drowsy remnants of once vibrant patrons as the final night hours slip by. True is a hip, fresh rehash of decades-forgotten style. There are times, however, when you are left waiting for Solange’s true vocal power to pour through the speakers. She keeps a generally tame lyrical prowess that is sure to please listeners but also leaves room for wanting. The album is more a fully fleshed EP than a half-filled LP, an album that has little trace of any filler. The tactical ploy is just another testament to Solange the artist, not the sister.

★★★ (out of 5 stars)