It’s difficult to attribute anyone as being the “first” to have ever done something musically— and when that artist and that genre lives outside of the sphere of popular consumer music, that hardship increases tenfold.

 

With that introduction, take it with exceptional praise on behalf of front woman Latasha Lee and her band the BlackTies when I say that jointly, these musicians have crafted an album that currently has absolutely no musical counterpart in the United States of America. It would be erroneous to leave that statement out of proper context so an analytical and in-depth look into American soul music in light of Latasha Lee & the BlackTies is needed now. Look at it this way. Putting the afore-statement into context, Latasha Lee’s eponymous album is characterized by three things: a. Her sound’s influences from mid-20th century soul music b. Her lyrics that matches her music’s updated sound and c. The urban twist that she puts on soul music, the Motown Sound specifically. Those three things, well rather any combination of those three things ordinarily leaves an artist with a solid album in the genre and tapping into any one of those characteristics ‘a, b, or c’ has the potential to catalyst a respectable artist. 

 

The album is a charming collection of love songs. It’s simply one of a kind; placing additional stress on Lee’s unpolished-ness, girly-sass and charm, also her amazing voice stunningly distinctive for its rich raspy timbre. Latasha Lee’s rendition of soul is innovative, and if the singer could get some much deserved recognition, iconic.