★★★★★
Gwen Stefani looked like a star in the making when she released her debut solo studio album, “Love. Angel. Music. Baby,” in 2004. Two years later, Stefani comes out with her second studio album titled “Sweet Escape.” She seemed primed for fame as a single artist, but no one really knew what to expect from Gwen Stefani or when to expect it. It took the turmoil with her now ex-husband, Gavin Rossdale, in addition to her newfound love with fellow artist Blake Shelton, for the new studio album to move and it moved fast. The title, This is What the Truth Feels Like, is almost too perfect for what this album displays. It’s emotionally driven from the opening song to the last one. I found something drawing me to this album and I do not regret it one bit. The opening song is called “Misery” and practically dictates what the album will both be about and sound like. It is a strong song, setting the tone with the sound of a pop song partnered with detailed lyrics that describes how she felt being in that relationship. Stefani follows that with a slower track titled “You’re My Favorite”, that offers a bit more ambiguity in her lyrics, but is just as emotional and beautiful. Then comes one of my favorite songs in the entire album that is surely about her relationship with Blake Shelton and how he has helped her through this rough time. “Where would I be” is a masterful track, with a little bit of everything coming from Gwen. From her spectacular singing voice to her fun lyrical ability, this song is definitely one to repeat and have some fun too. “Make Me Like You”, the fourth track on the album and “Rare” the final song, both sound like tributes to her new found love, but is more on the worried, paranoid side, but all the same offer a great sound and rhythm. “Truth” is yet another love song about her new relationship and how much more filled with honest it is. It can almost be the best song on the album due to the emotion behind the lyrics that can almost bring you to tears. Another two of my favorite songs come back-to-back, titled “Red Flag” and “Asking 4 it” which features Fetty Wap. Both songs offer a almost hip-hop feel with the verses focused on strong lyrical messages and little singing although it definitely is not absent. The combination of “Naughty” and “Used to Love You” both call out her now ex-husband and she doesn’t hold back at all. Gwen Stefani used this platform to express her emotions and didn’t let them consumer her. The amount of passion, energy and emotion that went into this album is clear and greatly appreciated. This is What the Truth Feels Like is an amazing listen and I wont be surprised if it wins an award or two later this year.