Two Eleven (Deluxe Version)

It's been a long wait for this album, this time Brandy has decided to ditch her normal method of working with one producer for the entire project and instead has teamed up with numerous producers ranging from Rico Love, Bangladesh, Sean Garrett and Danja. The result is Brandy's finest work since 'Full Moon' back in 2002.

This album is a mixture of upbeat tracks 'Let Me Go' 'Slower' 'Put It Down' to more laid back tracks 'Without You' 'Wish Your Love Away' All of which feature Brandy's signature layered vocals (it's almost like there is a 5 piece girl band singing)

I'm so pleased with this album and that Brandy looks to be back on track to receive the praise in the industry she deserves!

Top track 'What You Need' the bass is ridiculous on this song!

After nearly 20 years in the music industry, Brandy proves once again that she is one of the more consistent R&B singers of her generation with the release of her sixth studio album "Two Eleven". She is always effective in blending what is current with her own unique style and this collection of new songs is no exception. The production is spot on, the vocal harmonies are cleverly arranged and the songs are very well crafted.

"Wildest Dreams" is an effective mid-tempo track with a heavy beat and sweet layered vocal arrangements which are very typical of Brandy. "So Sick" is a very clever song with a deliberately slowed down excentric verse whichs adds to the slick chorus' intensity. "Slower" is a pleasant mellow R&B track and is followed by a lovely ballad "No Such Thing As Too Late" which has a sweet chorus that reaches its crescendo towards to end of the song. "Let Me Go" is a very addictive commercial effort with beats, sounds and vocals cascading together to create an interesting yet pleasantly eratic vibe. "Without You" is a plaintive yet punchy piano led ballad with strong vocals from Brandy. The lead single "Put It Down" features Chris Brown on Rap and is very hip with a fantastic melody and exciting arrangements. "Hardly Breathing" is an infectious ballad with some lovely vocal harmonies that flow through the sweet melody. "Do You Know What You Have" is an atmospheric R&B joint with a sensual quality to it whilst "Scared Of Beautiful" is a passionate yet dramatic ballad with an edge and "Wish Your Love Away" a soulful ballad. "Paint This House" is a dreamy song with sweet vocals and suave melody. "Can You Hear Me Now" is very cool, laid back and stylish with a heavy bass, hypnotic arrangements and a catchy melody. "Music" is a soft and repetitive Neo Soul track with some House music elements. The final song "What You Need" is another hip creation with a sexy vibe and vocals combined with interesting arrangements.

"Two Eleven" is Brandy at her best with superb vocal harmonies and infectious melodies. She manages to retain her unique R&B flavour on this release whilst coming across as very relevant, credible and original. She has not missed a beat since 1994 (back when she released her debut album at the tender age of 15) and continues to impress in 2012.

I must admit that after listening to the album the first time, I wasn't sure how I felt. However, I gave it a chance and after multiple listens I can honestly say that it is a grower. Her beautiful vocals, the quality production and most importantly that classic RnB feel she brings to her music - although the album is definitely futuristic and emulates Afrodisiac in that sense. What you get from Brandy is a sexy, sultry, at times vulberable offering so there's plenty for everyone to suit different moods. I especially love 'Hardly Breathing' because it is haunting and visceral. All in all, I would really recommend this album not only because Brandy is very talented and underrated, but also because it manages to recreate some magic in the genre of RnB. Leave all preconceptions and expectations at the door, spend time listening to the album and you will love it. Five stars from me.