Just when many were counting Ashanti out, she drops what could only be considered a gem at the very least. From start to finish, vocals and production are top notch, with a backdrop being provided by such ground-breaking producers as LT Hutton, Kevin Randolph, DJ Clue, Warren Campbell, and newcomer Mansur Zafr.
While many were looking for Ashanti to pack the same punch as her debut, she has surpassed that in terms of fluidity and cohesiveness alone. Not often do you find an album that beats from start to finish. From the soul baring “Intro-Braveheart”, to tracks like “She Can’t”, “Never Should Have”, “Perfect So Far”, “Scars”, or “Runaway”, the album is sure to be on constant rotation. French Montana chimes in on “Early In The Morning” while Rick Ross drops in on “I Got It”. Other guests in the house include Beenie Man in “First Real Love” and Jeremih on “Love Games”.
Ashanti’s music is highly relatable to fans, as she’s baring her struggles and heartaches throughout her career. Sure, her work and lifestyle may differ greatly, yet her pains hold a strong resemblance in the lives of listeners. With this album, she’s saying we’re all one in the same. She’s proven that even when resources waned and those backing her seemingly vanished one by one over the years, she was smart enough to figure it out on her own and release a powerful LP.
Perseverance to the fullest is what she’s preaching, and the congregation is listening. Nothing says that more than “Bonafide Survivor”, which features production from Warryn Campbell!
Braveheart serves as the first INDEPENDENT release through her own imprint, Written Entertainment. This truly puts Ashanti in a great position. It goes without saying that as a woman, she’s breaking down more barriers than even she knows. Women have undoubtedly come a long way in regards to what roles they play, and the level of respect they get. Yet and still, there’s still a long road to travel. Ashanti has taken a giant leap down that road with “Braveheart”, and it will pay off exponentially for her moving forward.
The reality is there’s a ton of people and labels who can do it all for you, but there’s also nothing like having your own. Ashanti has learned that first hand!
Album Review
www.urbangrandstand.com
Review by James G. Johnson II
22