Customer Reviews

Back To Me

5 star:		(83)
4 star:		(26)
3 star:		(9)
2 star:		(7)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

Fantasia's "Back to me" is easily the best R&B album of 2010. The songs are diverse with a familiar feel, as though listening to tested classics we already know, something R&B has been missing the last few years.

Opening is the midtempo piano-sprinkled "I'm doing me" (reminding me of Mary J Blige) on which she states "sometimes you have to put yourself first" as she gives her man the boot, might as well be her stand against the recent drama in her life. "Bittersweet" is a retro Soul ballad with a spoken section, soothing harmonies and gut wretching vocals. The Ne-Yo produced "Man of the house" is groovy with a more contemporary feel and Fantasia growling "if you gon' be the man, then be the man". "Who's been loving you" is skeletal with a lovely piano riff, while "Collard greens & cornbread" is another outstanding retro Soul ballad with awesome harmonies.

"Teach me" is guitar-laced Reggae/Soul which is heavily remniscent of the Lauryn Hill/Bob Marley duet "Turn your lights down low". The lovely "Move on me" features a triumphant horn section and busy percussion, while "Trust him" sounds almost Do Wop but with heavy Hip Hop beats and an insistent piano riff.

"The thrill is gone" is a haunting midtempo groove with a rap by Cee-Lo, while the lilting "Falling in love tonight" is a lovely ballad. "Even angels" is a contemporary sounding synth ballad, and closing is "I'm here" (from "The Color Purple" musical in which she starred for a year) a laid back theatrical piece that leaves ample room for her raspy soulful vocals to soar unencumbered by effects.

Definitely Fantasia's best effort yet, and yes, every bit as delicious as momma's collard greens and cornbread.

In my book Fantasia can do no wrong.

I agree with some other reviewers that some of the material on this album could be stronger.

But Fantasia's delivery is universally outstanding.

She is the living, breathing embodiment of pure soul.

It is a joy to hear her sing.

My own tastes run toward old school so the single "Bittersweet" is one of the most appealing songs on the album.

"Im here" is also a stand out. I was Blessed to hear Fantasia sing the song live in the "Color Purple" when the show played at Washington's Kennedy Center. Fantasia brought the house down - of course ! I look forward to her starring role in the upcoming film of the musical.

I also enjoy the very affirming "Man of the house" "Even angels" and "I'm doin' me" .

After Fantasia's recent difficulties I wish her only the very best. Several of the songs on her new album reflect a strong , self-respective woman. I pray that in her own life Fantasia is able to find that same sense of self worth and pride.

I believe Fantasia is a good caring person with a big heart. I know she is an amazing singer.

In future I would love to see her do a blues / soul album in the spirit of the late great Esther Phillips - of whom Fantasia has reminded me on several occasions.

I would also love to see her do an album recapturing her gospel roots.

In the meantime I wish her every Blessing.

Won't anyone step up and give this blissfully talented young woman some better songs to sing?

As with her self-titled 2006 effort, Fantasia's "Back to Me" is a collection of all right songs sung by a fiercely talented, effortlessly soulful vocalist who absolutely deserves far better material.

In short order - the writers behind these tunes are lucky Fantasia recorded them, not the other way around.

Fantasia has been taken for granted. A vocalist of raw, boundless soul and substance, she has been seen as secondary to the likes of Christina Aguilera, Kelly Clarkson and Beyonce - singers who hit the notes but will never possess an ounce of her searing bite and sincerity.

Of course, her relative obscurity can be partly attributed to her choosing to record albums that are authentic soul/R&B and do not bow down to the tastes of mainstream (read: white) audiences.

With natural talent Fantasia breathes life into anonymous songs such as the bouncy, handclap-filled "Falling in Love Tonight" and the cute but forgettable "Trust Him." Lead single "Bittersweet" is by far the most interesting, textured, catchy track in the bunch, with its hearty melody, thoughtful lyrics and well-structured production that show off Fantasia's instrument for all its worth. "Even Angels" also stands out due to a better-than-average hook and crisp, pillow-padded production from the Stereotypes. The urgent "The Thrill Is Gone" featuring Cee-Lo Green (not a cover of the B.B. King classic) also lights a fire.

The Ne-Yo-penned "Man of the House" is sleekly executed and Fantasia delivers the cheeky lyrics capably. She also moves with equal grace in out of the curves of the chilled retro-soul of "Collard Greens and Cornbread" as well as the more urgent duo of "Teach Me" and "Move on Me." With such a compelling vocalist, however, it's impossible not to wish for stronger songs - stronger melodies especially.

The most engrossing moment, unsurprisingly, is the bonus track "I'm Here" from the musical version of "The Color Purple." Sung from the perspective of the character of Celie, whom Fantasia portrayed both on Broadway and on tour, the song is an emotionally wrenching, overwhelming ode to overcoming obstacles, picking up the pieces and recovering self-worth.

With Fantasia's delivery it doesn't feel like acting or even singing. It feels natural, honest and from the heart.

October 7th, 2010

Fantasia, from the third season of American Idol is back with a set of half poppy and half soulful efforts. Was it worth the wait? My answer is yes.

Not only is this her best effort to date, but the songs this time around are pretty fun to listen to. I think I can serve you right by telling you the songs that are my favorites and the songs that stuck out, but in not so good a way.

"I'm Doin' Me" is one of the funnest cuts on the album and also serves as the opener. I love the way Tasia speaks in it when she's not singing...with so much command. Like you have to listen to her or else. Great opener, somewhat poppy, yet not the best track.

"Bittersweet" the first single also serves as the second track. Another standout, this track gives R&B a little soul.

"Man Of The House" was penned by Ne-Yo (and company) and produced by Rykeys (whoever that is). This track has attitude and has very synthesized production but to me is far from a standout. Actually, it may be my least favorite track on the album.

"Who's Been Loving You" is the next track and it is solid but not a standout either. The verses are alright, the best being the 2nd one, but the chorus needs a little work. It is almost a forgettable track, but it's light and fun enough with a nice, repetitive piano riff.

"Collard Greens & Cornbread" up next, however, is another standout. The verses are fine but what really stands out is the soul that Fantasia displays in her pipes during the chorus which goes by all too quick. She really should have let loose on this one, but doesn't. Still, one of the better tracks here.

"Teach Me" is mesmerizing with the "la la la's" in the background. It's more on the soulful R&B side than pop which is nice (although there is a time for both in my opinion). Very cute track that sounds like an old 70's song or something.

Like "Teach Me", the next track "Move On Me" is a track that our Tasia co-wrote. Finally, she's writing! Anyway, I really like the urgency in the chorus of this track. To some, this one might be filler, but for me, although not the best track either, it's in my top 6 definitely. In this song, she simply wants a guy to make a move on her.

"Trust Him" is likable enough. A track with simple piano keys and nice vocals. It's just another cute track. Not much else to say.

"The Thrill Is Gone" is another soulful track, but it's not up there with my favorites. For one, I don't think Cee-Lo added much to the song. Yes, it's better than track three and maybe even track four, but I guess that's not saying that much. Vocally, it's one of the better songs. There, I complimented it!

"Falling In Love Tonight" is the last of the cutesy and average-ish songs. It's really lovey dovey and if you are in love or crushing on someone, then this song may mean that much more to you. To me? It's better than average because it's catchy.

"Even Angels" is up next and is probably my favorite track on the album. It's very poppy for the most part but there is something about it. The lyrics, the way she sings it and the part that goes "even angels learn how to fly! fly! fly! fly!" is amazing. It's sort of an upbeat piano ballad about how living on your own (after a failed relationship) finally can be a good thing.

"I'm Here" is not only one of the best songs here but the perfect way to end a decent album. The vocals are OUTSTANDING and the lyrics are great. She finally lets loose on her pipes in certain moments of the track, but is it too late? Maybe.

The last track is flat out inspiring but she doesn't really have anymore uplifting moments like this on the CD. It's almost like the record label made her hold back just a bit, vocally, on this album. But is it worth owning? YOU BETCHA.

4 stars or an 8/10.

DOWNLOAD:
"Even Angels"
"I'm Here"
"Collard Greens & Cornbread" &
"Teach Me"

If you found this review helpful, don't forget to rate. We, as serious reviewers really appreciate it! I also hope that I helped you make a decision on whether to get this or not, or which tracks to download and what not.

I have listened to this album and read some of the reviews. I think this album is great. Her voice is unique and exudes SOUL which is lacking with most artists topping the charts. I think we all have to judge this album on its own merits. This is NOT her debut album. This is NOT her sophomore album. This IS her third album, and it is unique in its own right. It does not sound like the other stuff we hear on the radio and I appreciate that. Fantasia sings from the soul and she has the skills to make every song good (despite the production and writing). She's young and she's making the music that fits her age and her time. She's growing with music. Let's grow with her. This is good stuff.

I have been a Fantasia fan since she sang Summertime on AI, so it was with great anticipation (and a little frustration at the release date being pushed back, so much for pre-ordering!)that I purchased the CD. I'm thankful to Mr Cook because the songs have taken on an entirely new meaning for Ms Barrino so I know I will be getting more than my money's worth once she goes on tour to perform them. Her vocals are tight, no doubt strengthened by her stints in The Color Purple. The music is great. I'm no production expert, so I won't comment on that, but I like what I hear. There aren't too many CDs out nowadays, that you can put in and press play, but this is one of them. My personal favorite is Collard Greens & Cornbread, for it speaks to the love of/in my life right now. Looking forward to the live performance. Great Job Fantasia! Keep ya head up and a humble knee bowed and you will be fine! Many Blessings!

I have been a fan of Fantasia's since American Idol and loved her 1st cd and still play it today. I was not a fan of the 2nd cd but this cd did not disappoint at all. I love it from beginning to end. I don't think I have skipped a song. She is truly talented and if the media and the haters would get out of her personal life, she would truly be more of a classic artist. Her personal life has nothing to do with this songbird's gift!!! This is the best R&B cd of the year so far. Most R&B artist have a few songs on their cds but Fantasia's cd can be played all the way through.

Fantasia's album 'Back To Me' shows her growth in the music industry. With the lead single 'Bittersweet' she woos listeners into her world to prove that she is a woman who is getting back to what she loves, true singing, or shall I say SANGIN'! The CD has some great songs. My favorites include:

Who's Been Lovin' You
Teach Me (Bob Marley Inspired)
Collard Greens & Cornbread (Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell Your Precious Love Sample)
Move On Me
Bittersweet
The Thrill Is Gone feat. Cee-Lo Green
Even Angels
I'm Here (Powerful Rendition will have you in tears)
Falling In Love Tonight

This album was worth the wait. Despite all of the controversy you may be going through right now, this album is smoothly polished. Fantasia is definitely one of my favorite R & B singers alongside the lovely Monica! I'm waiting on the two of these sisters to do a duet! They did a mixed single called 'No Stopping' some years back which was hot, but Monica and Fantasia need to collaborate on an official single. Note to Fantasia: Life's challenges can only make us stronger. Remember Fantasia, we can't always change our situation but we can change how we are affected by it! KEEP GIVING US GREAT MUSIC BECAUSE YOU ARE THE BEST AMERICAN IDOL! YOU ARE 'OUR' AMERICAN IDOL! WE LOVE YOU! KEEP YOUR HEAD UP!

It is rare that I like an album on first listen, but "Back To Me" is the rare exception. This CD flows from beginning to end. Ms. Barrino has truly come into her own as an artist. She knows what works for her (lush strings, heart-felt lyrics, live instrumentation), and what does not (synthetic beats and Missy Elliott). This is the CD I have been waiting for from her since 2004.

The standout tracks are the southern soul-tinged "Collard Greens and Cornbread), and the 70's cool "The Thrill Is Gone" featuring Cee-Lo Green. Cee-Lo is the only guest on this album and this is great. Ms. Barrino can truly carry her own product.

This album is a must for the serious soul music fan.

Five EXCELLENT Stars! Fantasia (Barrino), the season 3 American Idol winner, Broadway star, actress (the award-winning cable TV movie of her life story was one of the highest rated cable TV movies to date), and R&B, soul, hip-hop recording star is back and doing it her way. I'm sure there are some fans who wanted her to continue on from her last CD or sing the expansive songs from her American Idol days like "Summertime", but this time she's doing it her way: all the way. From the emotional excellence of the 2011 Grammy-winning R&B song "Bittersweet" to the Marvin Gaye/Tammi Terrell-like rhythms of the beautiful "Collard Greens & Cornbread" (which went straight to my iPod) to "I'm Here" from her Broadway musical "The Color Purple" role to the soaring "Even Angels" to the very hip "The Thrill is Gone" with guest Cee-Lo Green, she is uniformly excellent throughout the CD, giving us exactly what she wants us to hear. When she sings about the pain of heartbreak, based on recent personal events, we know it's true. Love this honest, heartfelt CD from start to finish! Highly Recommended. Five COOL Stars. (This review is based on an Amazon.com MP3 download: 12 tracks, with full color digital booklet, which is in the downloaded Amazon.com music folder: find it, drop it on your desktop, & open it. Enjoy!)