You Gotta Hear This!
Intro to Algebra
by Tanisia Morris
Issue date: 11/5/07 Section: Arts & Entertainment
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Several years ago, the Atlanta native was signed to award-winning music producer Dallas Austin's Rowdy Records while still attending high school. Algebra then began her journey in the music industry as a back-up singer for notable acts like Monica and Bilal. She would meet Kedar Massenburg, who held a six-year position at the legendary Motown Records in the late '90s. A few years earlier, Massenberg had formed the indie-label Kedar Entertainment Group. Massenberg is responsible for leading Erkyah Badu and D' Angelo to neo-soul stardom and now Algebra is his latest muse.
On "Nothing to Prove" Algebra channels R&B singer India.Arie's "Video" song, which encourages listeners to accept themselves for who they are. On "Nothing to Prove," Algebra introduces herself to listeners and asks them to accept her for who she is. She sings: "I ain't got long hair unless I want it/ I don't pretend but I own it/I'm the one you see with the gray sweats, fresh tennis shoes and clean white t's/ Maybe I'm not the normal girl you are used to/but I am the next best thing."
Her smooth and effortless delivery is matched with relatable lyrics that make her seem like the girl next door. However, it is not to say that she is average. Her well-controlled voice is a powerful asset. She can belt out thunderous soulful tunes if she wants to, but opts to play it cool.
On "Some Kind of Wonderful," Algebra praises her beau for all the things he has done for her. The smooth steadfast acoustic guitar rhythm and the velvety R&B beat coalesce to form a contagious chorus that brings back a wistful feeling of summer-love. "You Do It for Me" has Algebra singing harmoniously behind a staggering and addictive hip-hop beat. In the song, Algebra sings about of falling in love, a subject that never goes out of style, but can easily become humdrum. Her buttery vocal delivery is mesmerizing.
While considerably earthy and bewailing, "Come Back" is peppered with pain. However, the song remains elevating even during the most poignant moments. On the schmaltzy "Happy After," Algebra sings about a girl in the hood who wants to be rescued by prince charming. Algebra's heartfelt and thoughtful lyrics make the song gratifying. It is the definitive anthem for those who have kissed one too many frogs in their quest for Mr. Right.
Algebra's album is currently unavailable in stores, but listeners can buy digital downloads of Algebra's songs at: www.kedar.com/algebra/
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