Fantasia | The Definition Of…

Fantasia | The Definition Of… RCA by Brent Faulkner

Look up “the definition of” underrated or underappreciated in the dictionary, and a photo of R&B diva Fantasia will be found. The best way to characterize her is as a fiery, passionate soul vocalist with an anointed, distinct set of pipes. Simply stated, Fantasia can “flat out sang.” Despite a career spanning more than a decade, save for a much-deserved, if low-key Grammy Win (“Bittersweet”), Fantasia has never attained the recognition a talent of her caliber deserves. Nonetheless, she keeps on grinding in the commercially cooling R&B game, once more showcasing her instrument capably on fifth studio album, The Definition Of… Ron Fair executive produces album number five.

The crowning achievement of The Definition Of… is “Sleeping With the One I Love.” Written and produced by R. Kelly, “Sleeping With the One I Love” finds Fantasia at her best. Vocally, she delivers a nuanced vocal performance showcasing both impressive vocal control and at other times, sheer grit. The reason it’s a massive success is because it suits her personality. That personality translates through the listening experience. It doesn’t hurt that the record is retro, fusing classic soul, blues, and jazz masterfully. Nothing supplants “Sleeping,” but there are contenders. On contender is “I’m So Blue,” which benefits from its old school sensibilities, particularly the infusion of funk. Fantasia’s vocals shine like a beacon, as does the backdrop. “I’m So Blue” is easily the closest competition to the R. Kelly-penned tour de force.

Adult contemporary R&B “Time For It” received so-so reception when released as a promo single earlier in the year, but definitely “feels good” on the project. “Ugly,” another pre-release single, initially suffered from sounding off-putting. The country-soul-adult contemporary amalgam endears itself after a while. Other moments contribute to the pleasantness and soundness of the LP, including the quirky, but alluring “Roller Coasters” bringing in pop-soul standout Aloe Blacc. Vocally, Fantasia nails ballad “When I Met You,” particularly when ascending into her piercing upper register. A smidge low-key, the empowering, feel-good “Stay Up” – featuring another underrated R&B standout, Stacy Barthe – shouldn’t be written off by any means.

All in all, The Definition Of… has terrific moments though none eclipse “Sleeping With the One I Love.” That said, The Definition Of…is imperfect as well. Opener “Crazy” has great intentions, but is a stretch to the ears, even after multiple listens. Penultimate number “Lonely Legend” has potential, but doesn’t quite meet the mark. Closer “I Made It” is energetic and triumphant. While Fantasia respectably affirms her faith with the help of spiritual fireball Tye Tribbett, a more traditional gospel record may have been just as effective. Regardless, passionate Fantasia fans who still cry recollecting her win on the American Idol stage back in 2004, The Definition Of… is another welcome addition to her collection. The voice is untouchable – that’s consistent throughout the course of The Definition Of…

Brent Faulkner
The Urban Music Scene