Lyfe Change

Lyfe Jennings isn't only a talented singer-songwriter, he is also a guitarist, pianist, and bassist. Lyfe branched out and worked with various different producers to help make a fresh new sound for this album, and it worked out well. The album includes collaborations with Snoop Dogg, Wyclef Jean and T.I. The standout among these collaborations is "You Think You've Got It Bad," the Wyclef collaboration. The song has a Caribbean vibe, making it great chill music with lyrics that can make you think. Lyfe and Wyclef sound great singing together on this track. Other highlights on the album are "Midnight Train," and the second single, "Never Never Land." The latter is a soulful track, in which Lyfe sings "they will never understand what it is to be a man." The former, "Midnight Train," is a guitar driven track that is musically similar to something John Mayer would do. Of course, Lyfe's unique voice makes this track very soulful. The song makes reference to the Gladys Knight and the Pips classic, "Midnight Train to Georgia." It seems Lyfe has an affinity for interpolating classics, as he does it again "Brand New," which features T.I. On this song, he samples Johnny Nash's "I Can See Clearly Now." On another standout, "Wild, Wild, Wild," Lyfe keeps it real, discussing all the novelties and gimmicks that make some people stars in this industry. Though it's title may be simple, "Hmmm" is the album's finest moment. On this track, rock and soulful R&B blend together with Lyfe's honest lyrics to create a stellar track. The natural soulful quality of his voice and his music, and his many throwback moments gives the album a nostalgic feel that reminds the listener of the goodness of classic soul music. Definitely pick this one up if you're looking for a laid back, soulful R&B album.