Couldn’t Wait to Tell You - Liv.e REVIEW
“So, tell me, everybody has a love story, right?”
In order to love someone else, you must love yourself first. Dallas born Neo-soul artist Liv.e reminds us the importance of self-love on her debut album Couldn’t Wait To Tell You… At the age of 22, with a co-sign from Erykah Badu and collaborations with Earl Sweatshirt, Pink Siifu, Maxo, and Black Noise under her belt, Liv.e is finally ready to tell us “What’s the Real.”
Couldn’t Wait To Tell You… feels like a guided meditation led by Liv.e’s despotic voice along the plush Jazz-lofi production. Liv.e chooses her words wisely and allows herself the free range to stack vocals that reminds you of a Motown classic mixed with elements from the Soulquarians. The project feels loose and free spirited but the vibe is consistent. The vibe shifts from a sound bath to a poetry slam. Liv.e forces her listeners to be present while she embarks on her musical journey of reaching her higher self.
“I can’t keep breaking my focus”
On “To Unplug,” Liv.e sings about maintaining focus while balancing happiness. Liv.e wishes to disconnect from worldly things and questions her own wants and needs. With money being the focal point, Liv.e recognizes the detriment and benefits that come from the root of all evil.
“Is it all about money?”
We’re experiencing Liv.e falling in love with herself as she lets go of things that provide her no value. On “How She Stays Conflicted ….I Hope He Understands,” she talks about leaving a relationship for the benefit of herself.
”I’m making moves for myself “
The following track “You the One Fish in the Sea,” Liv.e demonstrates her Badu influences, while reminding us of what falling in love with someone should feel like.
What I appreciate about Liv.e’s sound is the atmosphere she creates with her vocal layering, choice of words and production. The production never becomes overbearing with Liv.e’s soulful tone. She allows simplicity between the beats and her lyrics to paint a watercolor based portrait rendering love and time.
While listening to this project, I recommend cloud gazing under a tree. Allow yourself to drift away from your current frustrations and engage with Liv.e’s guided journey to self-love.
