Meshell Ndegeocello enlists friends for new covers
Meshell Ndegeocello has always approached music as an act of profound transformation, and her latest project, Synonym, is a testament to that philosophy. Arriving at a time of reflection, the album builds on the emotional weight of her earlier work, offering a vibrant collection that feels less like a collection of covers and more like an expression of queer liberation.
This new record dives deep into the concept of alchemy, brilliantly blending diverse musical histories into a cohesive, exhilarating whole. Ndegeocello masterfully weaves together songs from artists ranging from Bob Dylan and Jennifer Lopez to Barbra Streisand, collaborating with a stellar cast of co-vocalists including Cynthia Erivo, Cat Power, and Chaka Khan. The result is a sonic tapestry that effortlessly shifts between genres—rock, jazz, soul, and R&B—giving listeners a thrilling ride through the spectrum of modern music.
The album Synonym is rich with narrative depth. While some tracks unfold with smooth, digestible elegance, showcasing Ndegeocello’s signature vocal grace, others push the boundaries, exploring the raw energy of new wave and grunge classics. The album’s core message—a synonym for liberation of all kinds—is powerfully delivered through these unexpected musical pairings.
The creative choices on Synonym are anything but random. Ndegeocello uses these covers not merely for homage, but as springboards for new meaning. For instance, a track might take a familiar melody and redefine it, transforming lyrical themes through new vocal interpretations. This approach is evident in how she reimagines iconic songs, giving them fresh, visceral energy.
The journey through the album has a distinct arc. It starts with a hypnotic smoothness, drawing the listener in with familiar sounds, before culminating in tracks that serve as a powerful wake-up call. The final songs introduce a dynamic shift, moving from mellow melodies to a cacophony of rattling percussion and distorted guitar, reflecting the full, passionate spectrum of Ndegeocello’s artistic voice.
Though some might weigh Synonym against her monumental work, No More Water: The Gospel of James Baldwin, the new collection stands firmly as a brilliant expression of Ndegeocello’s enduring passion. The performances are undeniably strong, infusing the record with the same emotional intensity that has cemented her place as a beloved artist across more than three decades.
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