After a wait of several years, Sade is back, offering hope to the romantics of the world. However, the title of her new album, Soldier of Love, is not fitting for most of its tracks.
The title track is upbeat and one of the most optimistic songs on the album. But it is in the minority. The rest tell of sorrow and woe - quite a contrast from her last, far more upbeat album in 2002.
This doesn't mean the other songs are in any way traditional, or boring, love songs. Sade has not lost her ability to lull listeners into a mellow state. Though a few songs border on the clich?d, those like Bring Me Home more than compensate, with their intricate weaving of subtle notes beneath the beat.
It's doubtful the fire of Sade's words will spark a big reaction among younger listeners. Lyrics such as those in Skin demand a knowledge of love won and lost - although the beautiful melodies will appeal to anyone in love.
Sade has far from lost her X factor. Her haunting voice still reigns supreme, and although Soldier of Love struggles to find a place among the other albums, it will no doubt attract a younger audience and perhaps encourage them to check out her earlier work.