TheAlexandrite

Love Deluxe is a fascinating twist on the sophisti-pop of Sade's prior releases, leaning instead into electronic rhythms and heavenly atmospheres. Live drums are hardly found throughout the songs, instead replaced by thumping, gentle loops. There's still keys, but they often take the shape of swirling pads or echoing piano. Despite all these changes, Love Deluxe forms into a truly breathtaking experience, with each track being among the best in the group's repertoire. From the ... read more

While it is a bit of a step down from Promise, Stronger Than Pride is far from a stagnation in sound from Sade. Taking a more ambient and spaced-out approach to some of the tracks, it really does feel like a vastly different listening experience. There is still plenty of groove, though, this time a little more mechanical and controlled. Songs like Paradise, Nothing Can Come Between Us, and Keep Looking are by far the best on the album, but the shimmery ballads also have their place. All in all, ... read more

Promise takes the sound and vibe of Diamond Life and just goes so much deeper. Every instrumental is so lush and full while still being smooth and sophisticated. The songwriting is also a huge step up for the most part; the melodies and lyrics soar above or settle into the underlying groove, never overpowering or overpowered. Is It a Crime is a truly breathtaking and powerful piece of music, while The Sweetest Taboo perfectly counterbalances it with its chilled atmosphere and sensual ... read more

I recently hit an insane Sade groove that left me itching to review their albums. I swear they became one of my favorite bands completely overnight. That said, Diamond Life is a wonderful introduction to their classy blend of soul, jazz, and 80s pop goodness. Obviously, Smooth Operator takes the cake with its seriously flawless composition and performance, but the rest of the tracks hardly live in its shadow. Your Love Is King is a wonderful, lighthearted companion to it that sets the tone for ... read more