Teedra Moses's debut has an undeniably winning charm in its subtle, after-hours ambience. Steering well clear of the vocal gymnastics of many of her peers, Moses instead relies on the natural pleading quality that's inherent in her voice. The production, courtesy of Roots producer Paul Poli, never overwhelms, allowing Moses to float enigmatically through a set of songs that range from the relaxed, world-wise "No More Tears" to the poppy title track. The singer performs the seductive boudoir symphony of "Rescue Me," and then conjures Alicia Keys amidst the luxuriant string arrangement of "Take Me," a duet with Raphael Saadiq. Moses is capable of stronger stuff, too--"Outta My Head" is a bass-heavy dance-floor stomper that references the 1960s hit of the same name, while "Caution" proves that she knows both how to evoke '80s soul and make it her own.
Professional Reviews
Rolling Stone (p.108) - 3 1/2 stars out of 5 - "Moses has a cheery, twee voice, and on her debut she uses it to sass the men in her life."
