Lisa Left Eye Lopes* - Supernova

The only solo LP from the tragic TLC star Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes, "Supernova" is a very special recording - of that there can be no doubt. After her sudden and tragic death, many people found the music of Lisa and found out, all too late, what a wonderfully talented individual she was and just how much the music industry lost on that fateful day of her passing. This LP is a perfect display of both her talent and also a precious glimpse into the world of a generation's hero and fallen soldier. The single from the release - "The Block Party" is an uplifting tribute to all of what is great and wonderful about life. With an unusual beat and oriental-vibe it's the kind of track that will secure a very warm place inside of your heart. It's also the perfect hot summers day soundtrack. Another stand out track is "Hot!" which has a more traditional Hip-Hop beat over which Lopes laces some of her finest rhymes ever recorded. This is a stunning track in every sense of the word. Continuing the uplifting mood set by a certain Block Party, "Life is a Park" is about the trials and tribulations everyone faces in life and invites the world to just get right back up again. May sound sickly sweet, but Lopes pulls it off. The song is almost Folk-like in it's sound and it's another truly original piece that you'll fall in love with.
But the album does have a darker side, which adds some depth to "Supernova". "Let Me Live" tells of the destructive side of the ruthless music industry. While "True Confessions" is a more personal account that details the much-publicised break-up of Lopes and her famous footballer-fiancee Andre Rison. Haunting in it's honesty is "A New Star is Born" is a literal audio-letter from Lisa to her Father who was shot and killed the same day she signed a contract with TLC. No detail is spared, however heart-wrenching. That same honesty is present throughout "Supernova" and it's that honesty that is it's biggest strength. It's interesting that the album is of two halves - one positive and uplifting, while the other sad and introspective - perhaps a testiment to the complicated and misunderstod personality that was Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes. Regardless, "Supernova" is a beautifully crafted album; It's a very special recording that believes music can be magical and glorious.