Jill Scott Album Review

-Posted with permission from Laura Wilkinson, Editor-in-Chief of The Technician

A Sultry Progression

September, 8 2004

 

The intricate and soulful flows of Jill Scott waft through the speakers once more with her new album Beautifully Human: Words and Sounds, Vol. 2. The music remains laced with spirituality and optimism. Her trademark falsetto and almost tangible lyrics appear to complete Scott's previous album Who is Jill Scott? Words and Sounds, Vol. 1.

There is a real sense of longing that comes from the track "Bedda At Home," and is later confirmed on "Rasool." Scott's flirtation with higher octaves is compelling and haunting, leaving the listener to reflect on what she means by this or that, what the entirety of the album might suggest. While still hopeful, this album delves into some negative truths very organic to the communities Scott hails from. “…how the shots rang in the streets, hittin’ everybody in the surrounding vicinity.”

Scott's first album was introspective, considering much of what plagued her emotionally, but this new album seems to focus on the external conflicts of life--violence: "Rasool," defiance: "I Keep Still Here," and most importantly, fish & grits: "Whatever."

“Do ya’ want some fish and grits? I’ll hurry and go get it.”

"I’m Not Afraid," though not terribly original in theme, is no less powerful. “I am not afraid to be your lady. I am not afraid to be your whore.”

Some may argue that “Beautifully Human” is less impressive than “Who Is Jill Scott?” but there seems only to have been an evolution. The inquiry into Scott's sense of self having been concluded, she has found inspiration elsewhere; soul intact.

Scott’s new album compliments her previous disc, but is strong enough to stand alone. Though different, “Beautifully Human” echoes a true progression from conflict to acceptance.

-Posted with permission from Laura Wilkinson, Editor-in-Chief of The Technician