Ro James, Too Much | Track Review 🎵

In advance of his long-awaited sophomore album, MANTIC, R&B singer Ro James releases his fourth single, “Too Much,” featuring Miguel.

“Is it too much? / Wonder how much more of this can I take.” Hmm, sounds like Ro James is being pushed to the limit on “Too Much.” “Too Much” arrives as the fourth single from his sophomore album, MANTIC.  Mantic arrives four years after his debut, Eldorado, which was noted for the hit, “Permission.”  On “Too Much,” James is assisted by Grammy-winning R&B artist Miguel, though Miguel plays more of a background role.

As expected from a contemporary R&B cut, the production is lush, the vibe is more chill and relaxed, while the tempo relies on fewer BPMs.  Jeff “Gitty” Gitelman and Caston Grigsby give Ro James a backdrop that’s soulful with throwback sensibilities, yet also feels at home in 2020.  As far as vocals, James shows us a number of ‘identities’ you might say. We get some overt, powered vocals, some sweet falsetto, as well as vocals altered by effects.  All in all, it makes for a colorful, intriguing performance, if nothing else.

So, where does the ‘too much’ come into play? Love, of course – would you expected anything different from a R&B cut? “I’ve been searchin’ for too long to let it go / You were my prescription to my antidote,” Ro James sings on the first verse.  On the pre-chorus, he makes it clear that neither him or his bae “Ain’t shit,” yet, “There’s no one that I trust like you,” and “Ooh, you know we can’t quit, you know it.” The second verse perfectly captures the tumultuous nature of the relationship, where James suggest they build the chaos and dysfunction into, say, “A relationship like Bey and Jay.”

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, with “Too Much,” Ro James sets up MANTIC for success.  This is an enjoyable contemporary R&B single that dabbles in everyone’s favorite topic – love.  Miguel, who appears only on the chorus, does a nice job assisting James, though, wouldn’t it have been nice to hear a verse or bridge from him – just saying! All in all, I’m onboard.

Ro James • MANTIC • ByStorm Entertaniment / RCA • Release: 5.29.20

Photo Credits: ByStorm Entertaniment / RCA