Paul Simon, James Taylor and Cat Stevens were all meant to be sensitive rockers. But when using that term, Lenny Kravitz does not come to mind.
But with his new album, It's Time for a Love Revolution, it seems he's trying to get in touch with his soft side. He talks about feelings instead of sex drives, and Jesus instead of getting high. Did anyone ever anticipate Kravitz singing about his love for rain? Let's hope not.
Even the album title is a reminder of peaceful Rasta man Bob Marley and his Wailers, as are the two distinctly reggae tracks on this album.
Kravitz's latest is focused more on the lyrics than his power as a guitarist. Songs about a neglectful father, war and marriage are backed by repetitive guitar and drums for the most part. In the first few tracks, Kravitz still issues his intense vocals, but after about four tracks his voice softens to a high whisper.
It's Time for a Love Revolution is more similar to his most mainstream album, 2001's Lenny, than any of his other works. It is in sharp contrast to his most virtuosic work, Baptism. He should try to regain the passion from that album.
There is nothing particularly intricate about this album. Simple rhythms follow simple guitar lines, both basically there to augment the singing. It's hard to imagine Kravitz as merely a vocalist, straying from the guitar and instruments he plays so proficiently.
Ballads dominate this album, with a lot of obvious 60s and 70s influences. If You Want It could easily fit into a Rolling Stones' album and Back in Vietnam is very similar stylistically to The Beatles' Back in the U.S.S.R
but without the heavy lead vocals.
This soft-spoken Lenny is very disconcerting. The aggressive, sexual rocker from years past is barely seen. Loyal fans can take comfort in This Moment is All There Is and Love Revolution the only two tracks that truly display the Lenny known and loved.
Many artists take their music in a different direction so they don't get pigeonholed in one genre. A lot of times it's a refreshing change from what is expected. This time, unfortunately, listeners know the power Kravitz's music can possess, so this album takes a step back and does not satisfy. Sorry Lenny, it's not time for your revolution.Artist: Lenny KravitzTitle: It's Time for a Love RevolutionLabel: VirginStars : 3/5
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Susan Tebben
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