Album Review: Janiva Magness 'Love Wins Again'

Courtesy: Conqueroo

“Love is a bigger power than hate and darkness,” Janiva Magness explains. “It’s easy to forget that when we’re struggling or when the world often seems frightening and out of control. But love can transcend barriers between people and cultures, and bring us closer in ways we might not have imagined. Love can also be frightening. It requires opening yourself up and taking risks, but in the end, love will always win.”

Janiva Magness celebrates happiness on her twelfth album Love Wins Again which was released April 8th via Fathead/Blue Elan Records. As she writes in the liner notes, “Happy has never been my nature. Funny thing is these days I have actual consecutive days and nights of happy.” That happiness and contentment swell through the majority of the eleven tracks, five of which Magness co-wrote. The award-winning songstress’ graceful vocal range and sincerity take center stage on each song beginning with the danceable title track in which she declares “sorrows all the way over” to the thoughtful closer, “Who Will Come For Me.” In between Magness brings in the sexy on the bluesy “Real Slow,” the romantic on the slow jam “When You Hold Me” and a burst of pure joy on “Say You Will.” Recalling James Brown, the funky “Your House Is Burnin’” is full of attitude while “Moth To A Flame” features a slinky and sensual melody. Things slow down on the roots leaning “Doorway” on which she offers assistance and hope to a friend and the emotional ballad “Just Another Lesson.”

Love Wins Again leaves you feeling, and sharing in, Magness’ happiness. If you’re in a happy relationship this album can be your soundtrack; if you’re not quite there yet, the album is a gentle reminder of all of the things can love can do: conquer negativity, bring comfort and make you feel content. Reach for love and indeed, you will win.

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