Tyrese - Open Invitation
Rating: 4.5/5
The chill of Fall has finally crept into the South, and along with those crackling fires, we have Open Invitation to warm us. Talk about a stellar re-introduction. With his latest, Tyrese reminds us that he is a R&B mainstay, no questions asked. While the album is a play-straight-through, there are a few favorites I’m itching to chat about.
In I’m Home, Tyrese eases us into his world—feeling his own swag but giving tribute to his fans for still believing in his music. With Stay (my favorite so far), let’s say there’s a reason it was a single. We R&B addicts are taken back to those college loves, those good ole, finger-snapping (and hip-rocking) times. There’s nothing like a man who begs you back with a good song. My favorite line: “I’ll go that extra mile to make you smile…” In relationships, no one is perfect, but top-notch apologies inch you closer.
The beautiful Best of Me catches you with this one line: “I feel like I can conquer the world with you by my side.” It’ll have your heart swooning. I see perfect wedding music with this one.
Every woman should listen to Takeover. Sometimes we can be so quick to move on to the next and not wait to heal from the first. In this song, a woman who catches Tyrese’s eye stands her ground after a recent break-up (Who cares if the new man is Tyrese, right?). The message: Exert that power, ladies. Have him wait and profess his intentions, but only if you first give him permission. The power line: “I can take control, as long as you say so.”
I Miss That Girl gives us that old-school, cruising on a Sunday feel. He misses his old girl, who’s really still there, but a bit changed by life and their rocky relationship. But he still loves her, especially with this line: “Girl, you gave the birds a new song to sing.” Another insightful message.
Angel, with its melodic intro, made me want to dive into a manly bear hug. A sweet duet that’s a lover’s tune. What woman doesn’t like to be compared to an angel? Clever words. One of the reason’s it’s in my top three.
After listening to the music, your “feel good” is capped off with a poem of gratitude from Tyrese. He shares his presumably most intimate thoughts on his plan for success, his adoration for God’s will, and respect for himself as an agent of change. Pin back your ears and sink into his words of wisdom on being who you are despite what others say. When you finally accept and honor yourself, you’ll finally be open to receiving what’s only for you. The truth: “If I make you uncomfortable with my bottom line, then don’t cross it.” Quite the way to end an awe-inspiring album.
