Monae Marleau: Where's The Fire?

Album Review: "Where's The Fire?" by Monae Marleau

Monae Marleau, a dynamic artist hailing from Tampa, Florida, brings a refreshing and authentic voice to the music scene with her new album, "Where's The Fire?" Her southern roots deeply influence her musical style, weaving together rich narratives that reflect her upbringing and identity.

Musical Style and Influences

Growing up in Tampa, Monae was immersed in a blend of R&B and hip-hop, which naturally shaped her unique sound. Her music effortlessly bridges these genres, creating a vibrant and soulful listening experience. "Where's The Fire?" is a testament to her ability to meld smooth R&B melodies with the raw energy of hip-hop, a skill she honed from early exposure to both genres.

Album/Creative Process

"Where's The Fire?" is a deeply personal project, exploring themes of identity, relationships, and Monae's journey in music. Tracks like "Favs," "Upper Room," "Hood Baby," "I Told U So," "Sunday's Best," and "Dedman Dedman Dedman" showcase her storytelling prowess and authentic self-expression. Monae's ability to communicate her values and thoughts through her music makes the album a genuine reflection of who she is.

Upper Room

One standout track, "Upper Room," has been on repeat for many listeners. The song’s portrayal of relationships is relatable and empowering, steering clear of a victim narrative. For Monae, music serves as a therapeutic outlet, allowing her to channel her emotions and experiences into her art.

Fuck the Game

In "Fuck the Game," Monae reflects on her journey in music with lines like "bout time I gave my ass some kisses." Her path has been marked by confidence and self-assurance, yet she remains appreciative and grounded. Despite her immense talent, Monae is still surprised by some aspects of her journey, embodying the sentiment that her success was destined, as Nas might say.

Hood Baby

"Hood Baby" features an incredibly catchy hook, "I love you like your mama’s greens, you ain’t perfect you right for me," and showcases Monae's songwriting brilliance. The music video adds a visual layer to the song’s narrative. Monae's seamless blend of singing and rapping is a testament to her versatility as an artist. Her creative process often starts with a spark—whether it's a melody, a lyric, or a specific emotion she wants to convey.

I Told U So

This track delves into the complexities of love, capturing emotions of guilt and accountability. Monae's reflective tone invites listeners to connect with their own experiences, hoping her songs resonate on an emotional level and provide solace or insight.

Sunday's Best

"Sunday's Best" highlights the importance of genuine support in overcoming self-doubt and challenges. For Monae, having a solid support system has been crucial in her journey, helping her navigate obstacles and stay focused on her goals.

Dedman Dedman Dedman

Breaking free from toxicity is a central theme in "Dedman Dedman Dedman," where Monae sings about the impact on her mind and money. The process of self-discovery during these challenges has contributed to her personal growth and resilience, reinforcing the importance of staying focused on what truly matters.

Album Sound

"Where's The Fire?" boasts a diverse soundscape, featuring powerhouse tracks, melodic tunes, and skillful sample use. Monae aimed to create a rich auditory experience, offering a variety of sounds that keep listeners engaged and intrigued.

Underground Scene

Monae Marleau is a breath of fresh air in the underground music scene, filling gaps with her unique sound and perspective. Navigating the underground scene, especially as an artist from Tampa, Florida, adds a distinct flavor to her identity. Being an underground artist means staying true to herself and her roots while pushing the boundaries of her craft.

"Where's The Fire?" is an exceptional album that showcases Monae Marleau's talent, authenticity, and southern identity. As listeners delve into her music, they are invited to understand her world, values, and experiences. Monae's contribution to the underground scene is invaluable, and her future in music looks incredibly promising.