Album Info
| Artist: | Sade |
| Album: | Promise |
| Gatefold: | Yes |
| Released: | UK, 21 Jun 2024 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Is It A Crime | 6:18 |
| A2 | The Sweetest Taboo | 4:35 |
| A3 | War Of The Hearts | 6:47 |
| A4 | Jezebel | 5:30 |
| B1 | Mr Wrong | 2:50 |
| B2 | Never As Good As The First Time | 5:01 |
| Producer - Ben Rogan, Mike Pela, Sade | ||
| Vocals - Jake Jacas | ||
| B3 | Fear | 4:05 |
| Arranged By [Strings] - Nick Ingman | ||
| Guitar - Carlos Bonell | ||
| B4 | Tar Baby | 3:58 |
| Arranged By [Strings] - Nick Ingman | ||
| B5 | Maureen | 4:22 |
| Mixed By - Mike Pela | ||
| Producer - Ben Rogan, Sade | ||
| Vocals - Jake Jacas |
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Description
Sade's sophomore album, "Promise," released in 1985, is a masterful blend of soul, jazz, and pop that solidified the band's place in music history. Following the success of their debut album, "Diamond Life," Sade Adu and her bandmates—Stuart Matthewman, Paul Denman, and Andrew Hale—delivered a collection of songs that are both timeless and evocative.
"Promise" opens with "Is It a Crime," a track that showcases Sade's sultry voice and the band's ability to create a lush, atmospheric sound. The song's slow build and emotional intensity set the tone for the rest of the album. The lead single, "The Sweetest Taboo," became one of Sade's most recognizable hits, with its smooth groove and catchy chorus. The song's success helped the album reach number one on the US Billboard 200 chart, a testament to its widespread appeal.
One of the standout tracks on the album is "Jezebel," a haunting ballad that tells the story of a woman seeking love and redemption. Sade's vocal delivery is both tender and powerful, perfectly capturing the song's emotional depth. Another highlight is "Never as Good as the First Time," which combines a playful melody with introspective lyrics about nostalgia and the passage of time.
"Promise" was well-received by critics, who praised its sophisticated production and Sade's distinctive voice. The album's seamless blend of different musical styles was seen as a continuation of the band's innovative approach to music. The production, handled by Robin Millar and the band, is polished yet organic, allowing each instrument to shine while supporting Sade's vocals.
The album's title, "Promise," is a nod to a promise Sade made to her father to return to Nigeria, her birthplace. This personal connection adds another layer of meaning to the album, reflecting themes of identity and belonging. The cultural significance of "Promise" is also notable, as it contributed to the growing popularity of the "quiet storm" genre, characterized by its smooth, mellow sound.
In terms of accolades, "Promise" was nominated for several awards and won the Grammy Award for Best New Artist in 1986, further cementing Sade's status as a major force in the music industry. The album's influence can be seen in the work of many contemporary artists who cite Sade as an inspiration.
Overall, "Promise" is a testament to Sade's artistry and the band's ability to create music that resonates with listeners across generations. Its blend of emotional depth, musical sophistication, and cultural significance make it a standout album in Sade's discography and a classic in the world of music.
