Pop and RnB mainstay Brandy has dropped her first studio album in eight years, and it is her most personal and reflective offering to date. Her seventh release, the aptly titled “B7,” tackles some very real and deep issues. The singer has spoken of the album being cathartic, and almost a form of therapy for her own mental health challenges.

Every track feels like a peek into her soul. Brandy’s beautiful mezzo-soprano voice is not only ideally suited for her musical style, it carries a depth of warmth and emotion to it which offers even greater meaning into her songs. Nowhere is that more evident than on “B7.” With such deeply personal lyrics, Brandy’s lovely vocals convey such honest and thought-provoking messages perfectly.

“B7” has already netted the acclaim of fans and critics alike, cementing its place within her discography as one of her most poignant and incredible albums. In an interview with “theGrio” yesterday, she spoke of Whitney Houston being her most profound musical influence, and her way of this release being a tribute to her.

Brandy also confirmed that she has experienced her own battles with depression and PTSD, and that “B7” was a way of working through that pain. Heartbreak and failed relationships are also on the agenda for this one, with the entire album feeling like a much-needed outpouring or emotion.

But underpinning what can at first feel like a whole bunch of negativity and sadness, is a lingering message of hope. Brandy does not want us to pity her. She wants us to hear her message and grow stronger because of it, just as she did. “B7” is the singer telling us we can overcome, and become more resilient, as long as we do not give up.

The album may have come at a particular turning point for Brandy personally, but it could not have been released at a better time for the world as a whole. Her power, grace and refusal to allow her demons to defeat her is an example to everyone. If you haven’t checked out “B7” yet, do yourself a favour and get onto it. Not only is it Brandy’s finest work to date, it will motivate and inspire you in ways you will find truly surprising.

 pop       R&B 

Author: Harley Houghton

Harley Houghton is a writer and blogger, based in Melbourne, Australia. Her passions include music, especially metal, gaming and comics. Check out her blog www.harleysmadhouse.com and follow her on Twitter.