ATHENA review - Goddess of the Arts

(Reviewed by Melody Werner)

Athena is a 2019 R&B album by Sudan Archives (Brittney Denise Parks). Released by Stones Throw Records, it's her 14 track debut album, which has been met with critical acclaim for its unconventional take on R&B--melding Brittney's skills with the violin and electro R&B. As per usual, I found out about Sudan Archives via theneedledrop--specifically through a song review of Athena single, Glorious, which piqued my interest. Fast forward a month, and I am utterly entranced by this album.

You might not expect the violin to make for some incredible R&B tunes, but as far as why it works so perfectly on Athena goes--I'd chalk that up to BDP's inimitable talent. Not only does she play the violin with such startling proficiency, but the electronic aspects further the album's sound (particularly on Green Eyes). For the most part, that is. There are some moments (e.g., on Black Vivaldi Sonata) where it's more annoying and jarring than it ought to be imo. But the violin playing is so wistful and gorgeous, every time I'm mildly annoyed, I'm won back over soon after.

To call Brittney's voice angelic feels like a gross understatement. It's magnificent, radiant, grand, brilliant, astounding. Think of a compliment and there's a good chance it applies. R&B singers are supposed to have pretty voices, of course, but she definitely brings something special. There are some bangers on here (Glorious, Down on Me) and you might see that and go, "How would such soothing vocals work on more fast-paced, bombastic songs?" A good question; ask Parks. So yeah, she's also a natural with singing too. Because Brittney has evidently lucked out on a lot of things, or become a master of all trades through sheer force of will.

So with all that said, let's talk about the lyrics. They're excellent. Kinda creepy sometimes, but in a way that just draws me helplessly in more and more. And when they're not creepy, they're cutting as hell. Like on Glorious. Oof. Speaking of Glorious, that is the only song on the album with a prominent feature--namely Goldie. He sells his verse great, but doesn't overshadow Brittney. That's what you'd want with a feature, after all. As far as my favorite tracks on the album go, they're definitely Down on Me, Confessions, Glorious, Did You Know?, and Coming Up. But the whole album is tight as fuck.

Athena is a fitting title for this album. Brittney is, after all, a goddess of the arts. It's chill and intoxicating, yeah, but also has some great versatility to it. Despite a scant, minor annoyance here or there, Athena is an extraordinarily impressive and bold debut album. Go ahead and give it a listen. Athena gets a 10/10.

Masterful

Summary:

A one of a kind R&B experience and a definite AOTY candidate.