Album Review: Kindred The Family Soul's 'Legacy Of Love' Doesn't Disappoint

Album Review: Kindred The Family Soul's 'Legacy Of Love' Doesn't Disappoint
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Society has changed since Grammy-nominated adult contemporary R&B duo Kindred the Family Soul released their first single "Far Away" from the album Surrender to Love in 2003. 13 years ago the group sang about love and commitment for generations grounded in loyalty and dedication. Fast forward to 2016 and millennials are now the largest generation, a group desiring instant gratification and love on their own terms. Yet somehow Kindred the Family Soul's music stands the test of time and is honored by this generation as well. Their music- and their personal connection- prove some things are universal; people will always connect with love.

With their finest album to date, married vocal duo Fatin Dantzler and Aja Graydon of Kindred the Family Soul have transcended the stifling "neo soul" genre. Their 6th studio album Legacy of Love is mature R&B at its finest, filled with so much warmth, comfort and serenity it must be played while enjoying a chardonnay nightcap long after the kids are asleep. A new classic, the album occasionally flirts with both subtle, refreshing hints of Brazilian bossa nova and empowering, radical '70s soul.

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This latest album personifies the marriage of the duo; it's clear in interviews, concerts, even their social media accounts Dantzler and Graydon genuinely prioritize their romantic relationship over any external chaos surrounding them. From the moment "Love Is" and "Welcome to My World" is heard, it's clear they're offering the listener an invitation into their union. If the name of their group is a nod to their natural relationship with melody (kindred), then songs like the crown jewel "Legacy of Love" repeatedly demonstrate that organic connection.

Undoubtedly, with all the turmoil surrounding America in recent months, Legacy of Love has arrived just in time. Full of life, energy, motivating beats and inspiring anthems like "Get There" and "Never Scared", the album balances empathizing with the perils of the Black community with aspiring imagery and ambition. The first single from Legacy of Love, "All My People", optimistically paints the group's vision of equality while illustrating their desire to see us all come together to build for the future.

Legacy of Love is scheduled to be released August 30 but is now available for pre-order via iTunes.

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