On their hit reality show ‘Braxton Family Values’, Toni’s sisters Trina, Towanda and Tamar are depicted as the Party Girl, the Responsible One and the Diva respectively. Well, this week’s From The Vault will showcases the trio as members of underrated R&B group, The Braxtons. Lifted from their 1997 second album, ‘So Many Ways’, ‘Slow Flow’ is yet another example of the talent with which has blessed the Braxton family.
The laid-back groove is evocative of the R&B scene during the mid-nineties: New-Jack beat: check, DJ-scratches: check, melancholic synth-line: check, great vocals: check.
Moreover, each member is apportioned ample light to flaunt what they’re working with. From Trina’s deep, mature vocal, to Towanda’s soulful tone (one we must add lends itself well to Gospel music), and of course Tamar – whose voice proves just as big her personality. Indeed, any such doubt of her ability is dispelled when she takes charge and treats us to a melisma-heavy final chorus.
Hopefully at some point, the show, without losing its comical and inspirational appeal, will provide more music-related storylines for the ladies. As, like this song and numerous others attest, they are worth so much more than the ‘roles’ they’ve been assigned. Of course, seeing Tamar act like Tamar is great – however, it’d be hot.com if we’d see more of such antics in a recording studio.
Bring On that reunion album!