Anniversaries: Friends & Lovers by Marsha Ambrosius

We’re celebrating the tenth anniversary of Marsha Ambroisus’ ‘Friends & Lovers.’

Courtesy of RCA Records.

Marsha Ambrosius’ sophomore album, Friends & Lovers, showcases her growth as an artist, building on the success of her debut, Late Nights & Early Mornings. The new release brims with sultry, sometimes explicit, slow jams highlighting Ambrosius’ talent as a singer, songwriter, and producer.

The album’s opening features several euphoric ballads, including collaborations with Da Internz and the J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League. These songs set the tone for a collection that primarily explores themes of vulnerability and assertive sensuality. Tracks like “So Good,” “Night Time,” and “69” subtly insinuate themselves into the listener’s consciousness, proving as memorable as Ambrosius’ earlier work.

While Friends & Lovers shines in many aspects, it has flaws. At an hour long, the album includes a few less engaging tracks, such as a duet with Charlie Wilson. These moments pale in comparison to standout songs like “Cupid (Shot Me Straight Through My Heart)” and “La La La La La.” The former evokes Michael Jackson’s most romantic stylings, while the latter pays homage to Teena Marie’s sound despite quoting Minnie Riperton.

An attempt to reimagine Sade’s “Love Is Stronger Than Pride” falls short, muddied by an array of references from Jeru the Damaja to Marcellus Wallace. Similarly, Dr. Dre’s guest verse, laden with allusions, pales in comparison.

Despite these minor setbacks, Friends & Lovers is a worthy follow-up to Ambrosius’ debut. Upon its 2011 release, the album nearly topped the Billboard 200, second only to Adele’s 21. Its longevity was bolstered by the single “Far Away,” which garnered two Grammy nominations.

In the interim between albums, Ambrosius occasionally appeared, notably on Robert Glasper Experiment’s “Trust” and Daley’s “Alone Together.” The time invested in crafting Friends & Lovers is evident in its polished production and emotional depth, resulting in a collection that rivals the heat of her debut.