So ok I admit I was never a huge Tamia fan, maybe it's because she seemed a little too "popish" for me or maybe it's because I'm a guy. Whatever the reason was the only song I can remember ever being able to listen to was “Stranger In My House”, so when I started to listen to Between Friends I really didn't expect much, but what I got was way more than I could have possibly ever imagined her being capable of. Yes we all know that she can sing, but so can a lot of other artists, so that definitely doesn't mean that she can automatically produce a quality album. The circumstances surrounding Between Friends however has led to a free, more artistic, expressive side of her.

Earlier this year she was dropped by her label Elektra, and decided to continue her music career as an independent artist collaborating with real life friends Shep Crawford and Rodney Jerkins, who just happen to be incredibly talented writers/producers. Free of the constraints and requirements of a major label, the end result is a soulful, heartfelt, realistic mix of up-tempo songs and beautiful, heart wrenching ballads. Even the interludes are real and actually involve her real life, ie. conversations with her daughter and husband Grant Hill.

While the album doesn't exactly fall into the "Neo Soul" (I never understood why the neo was added) category, which is usually what I mostly dig, it has cross genre appeal, with soulsters like me digging the raw power and emotion in her voice and the R&B/Pop folks digging the Rodney Jerkins tracks and lyrics that some can relate to. “Too Grown For That” is the best example of it and my least favorite song on the album. (Sorry I'm a guy and I really can relate to being harassed at the club).

Ok now for my personal favorites in no particular order, (once again I'm a guy so I'm picking these based on vocals and lyrics)

“Love and I”, probably the best song on the album, light accompaniment and strong vocals, you really get to hear what she can do vocally and the lyrics are beautiful.

“Day Dreaming”, classic song that she lends her own personal touch to, works well for her.

“Sittin' On The Job”, very simple, stripped down song, once again showcases her incredible vocals.

“Me”, incredible vocals and a cute concept and lyrics.

“Last First Kiss”, (even as a guy I can understand this) touching lyrics and silky vocals.

Plenty of good songs on here, solid but not overpowering production and great song selection. Kind of makes you wonder what the music scene would be like if more artists weren't afraid to do their own thing and be themselves.