Tank is turning good girls into bad girls on ‘Savage,’ the title track from his eighth studio album (arriving September 29).

Despite the coolness of R&B, singer/songwriter Durrell Babbs, better known as Tank, continues to be prolific.  Despite being incredibly underrated, he’s written and recorded some great music during his career. His 2016 album, Sex Love & Pain II was personally a bit disappointing.  While it had its moments, at times, it suffered from trying too hard to assimilate and conform with the new brand of urban contemporary.  All indications suggest that Tank will remain “Savage” on his upcoming album, fittingly entitled, Savage.

“Savage” keeps things short and sweet, just hitting the three-minute mark. The production work is slick AF, featuring trap-oriented drums, looped synths, and set in a minor key.  Naturally, given the title and minor key, “Savage” is ‘sketchy-sounding.’  It’s clear that sex is on Tank’s mind – rather, he’s thinking with his pants.  This is nothing new – a cliché within urban-pop or any number of styles really.  He amplifies his lust with profanity and talking mad game.  If nothing else, Tank captures the savagery throughout the course of “Savage.”

Cons? Again, “Savage” is built upon a cliché topic.  Tank plans to turn good girls into bad girls.  What’s new? This isn’t transcendent stuff.  He does it well overall, but “Savage” by no means wows personally as ‘the song to beat.’

Final Thoughts

All in all, “Savage” is good, particularly as the opener for the album of the same title. Even so, this isn’t transcendent in the least.  Vocally, Tank shines as always, showcasing his beautiful, distinct pipes. The material is relatable – ‘tried and true’ – but not ‘thrilling’ per se.

Tank • Savage • Atlantic • Release: 9.29.17

Photo Credit: Atlantic