Music Review: Erykah Badu - New Amerykah Part Two: Return of the Ankh

Critics are hailing Erykah Badu's latest CD, New Amerykah Part Two: Return of the Ankh, as a return to Baduizm form; in other words, the songs lean more toward jazz and old-school R&B than some of her recent efforts. Certainly, in comparison with New Amerykah Part One (Fourth World War), this album does reflect her neo-soul roots. But Badu's vision of "Amerykah" is no Baduizm clone; instead, it smoothly melds her original sound with her current psychedelic, almost outer-space brand of soul.

Part One leaned more toward funk and contained overtly political lyrics. Conversely, Part Two addresses relationships and personal growth. Tracks such as "You Loving Me" features Badu engaging in lyrical improv, but unlike on looser albums such as 2003's Worldwide Underground, most of the tracks have a polished sheen. The majority of the album's material resembles the smoother sound of the first single, "Window Seat," which contains some jazz chord changes tinged with a classic slow-jam vibe. It's one of her most accessible singles in years, despite its controversial video. When Badu sings, "I just want a ticket outta town," the listener wants to come along for the laid-back ride.

She also makes creative use of samples, such as on "Gone Baby, Don't Be Long," which uses the drum beat and bass riff from Paul McCartney and Wings' 1979 cut "Arrow Through Me." The sample simply enhances the mellow, '70s soul-kissed flavor of the track. The sunny funk of "Turn Me Away (Get Munny)" also appeals, with its retro, popping bass and steady beat.

Fans of Baduizm, Mama's Gun, and her excellent live album should most enjoy "Umm Hmm," which prominently features Badu's Billie Holiday-tinged vocals and a jazz-soul sound. On Erykah Badu: Live, she demonstrated her love of '70s and early '80s soul stars Chaka Khan and Roy Ayres, and this track fully reflects those influences. "Fall in Love (Your Funeral)" turns the tables on the battle of the sexes; unlike her classic "Tyrone," this time it's the female narrator warning the man that he serves as only a time passer for her: "You ain't the worses one I have done/But you'll do/Till he come," she sneers, adding that, "You don't wanna fall in love with me." With this track, Badu plays with gender stereotypes and typical "he done me wrong" song cliches.

Article Author: Kit O'Toole

Kit O'Toole is a lifelong music enthusiast who maintains a music blog, Listen to the Band. In addition, she is the internet columnist and a contributing editor for Beatlefan magazine. She also holds an Ed.D. in Instructional Technology.

Visit Kit O'Toole's author page — Kit O'Toole's Blog