August 30, 2008

On her sophomore set, Solange not only takes on a sound that differs from her pop-driven 2002 debut, but demonstrates that unlike her sister Beyoncé—who she vehemently refutes comparisons to on "God Given Name"—she has no reservations about sharing personal experiences. The breakup song "Valentine's Day," on which she gloomily sings, "I sure wish we made it till Valentine's Day"; the regretful "T.O.N.Y.," about a one-night stand; and the SoulShock & Karlin-produced "SandCastle Disco," which finds her lightheartedly warning her Casanova not to break her heart, all demonstrate Solange's frank approach. Elsewhere, the Bilal-penned, electronica-inspired "Cosmic Journey" and the '70s-drenched, Pharrell-produced lead single "I Decided" further support the eclectic sound. —Mariel Concepcion

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