Hometown: West London Age: 30 Musical Influences: Stevie Wonder, Motown, Frank Ocean, Spice Girls
Dare I say this album and the gems received throughout gives me The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill vibes. And lucky for us, the project is not only flawless, but right on time. Rose in the Dark is sensual, smooth, sexy, and inspirational. You can tell this body of art was made with intent. So let's dig in, shall we?
Rose in the Dark reflects on the process of accepting, forgiving, and falling in love with who you are in this very moment. Each song is a message to her younger self— some of which I still live by today. “Do you know that things get better”? Those hard lessons life presents will have you seeing nothing but darkness at the end of the tunnel. Fortunately, it is all temporary. Hell, it’s the only way we grow. Pressure makes diamonds right?
Once you start the journey of loving yourself, room is made to accept love from others. Stand-out track When I’m in your Arms bleeds Marvin Gaye from the long, groovy intro to the simplicity of the lyrics. Learning to love yourself, brings out a different level of vulnerability and openness to expose to others. It also encourages others to do the same. I believe here is a turning point of the album where she allows herself to love and be loved.
Another one of my favorite ballads from this project is Sure of Myself where Cleo is realizing her power by challenging her thoughts and actions while growing in love with a significant other.
“But I want you all the time Even if we have to fight It never matters who was right Because we’re trying to build”
Loving is fearless. I say that because when you find your person, it’s like having a mirror up at all times. Not only do you see yourself in your rawest form, but someone else does too. Allowing every part of you to be seen can be risky. It can make or break you if not handled carefully. But when the love is real, there’s nothing to hide.
Rose in the Dark has easily become one of my favorite R&B releases this year. There are no skips. Each track is purposeful and sonically pleasing. I look forward to hearing more from Cleo Sol.
