Review
Ella Mai's voice, a smooth concoction of silk and honey, weaves through the intricate tapestry of "Heart on My Sleeve," an album that's as much a soulful diary entry as it is a musical journey through love's battles and breathtaking highs. Released into the world on May 6, 2022, this collection of songs doesn't just play; it unfolds, revealing layers of heartache and hope as Mai, under the masterful executive production of Mustard and Meko Yohannes, collaborates with a constellation of stars including Latto, Roddy Ricch, and Lucky Daye. Each track, from the yearning of "Not Another Love Song" to the spirit-stirring "DFMU," is a brushstroke on the canvas of romance, painting the raw emotions that come with giving your all to love.
The polish of the production fuses with the rawness of Mai's lyrics, creating a space where songs like "Break My Heart" and "Fallen Angel" — the latter elevated by the vocal prowess of Kirk Franklin's choir — exist as anthems for the emotionally brave. "Heart on My Sleeve" is a testament to the resilience of the heart, with "Pieces" and "A Mess" capturing the beautiful chaos of loving deeply, while tracks like "How" and "Sink or Swim" offer a nod to the wisdom of guarding one's heart without closing it off entirely. With Mary J. Blige's sage voice note gracing the album, Ella Mai not only delivers a cohesive narrative but also secures her place as a vanguard of modern R&B, crafting a body of work that resonates with the vulnerability and strength of love itself. "Heart on My Sleeve" is a soul-stirring addition to Mai's repertoire, essential listening for anyone who's ever loved, lost, or dared to love again. - Draya
