R&B artist Tank brings the ‘bedroom action’ on the sensually-charged “When We,” the second promo single from ‘Savage’ (September 29).

Despite the coolness of R&B, 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 disappointing, however.  It suffered from trying too hard to assimilate and conform with modern urban contemporary.  All indications suggest that Tank will remain “Savage” on his upcoming album, fittingly entitled, Savage. Single “When We” showcases the savagery of the R&B singer/songwriter.

“When We” features lush, sensual production work.  This is a selling point by all means.  The standout backdrop includes slick hip-hop driven drums, clearly part of the contemporary script. Tank delivers a superb performance, characterized by smooth vocals. Like the production, Tank’s vocals exemplify sex. His tone is amazing.  This has been consistent throughout his career, regardless what he sings. Notably, he matches the swagger of his contemporaries here.

“When We” has its fair share of pros.  It also has its cons.  As well-produced and well-sung “When We” is, it’s shallow to the nth degree.  This is best demonstrated by the pre-chorus, as well as the simple, savage, explicit chorus.

“Who came to make sweet love? Not me / Who came to kiss and hug? Not Me / Who came to beat it up? Rocky / And I’mma use those hands to put up that gate and stop me // When we f*ck / When we f*ck…/ I could be aggressive / I can be a savage / I just need your blessin’ / Say that I can have it, yeah / When we f*ck / When we f*ck.”

The chorus is catchy, but arguably, shameful.  Throughout “When We,” Tank plays on sexual clichés, using “Face down, ass up” on the bridge. Yeah, we ‘been there, done that.’ At over five minutes, the record is too long.  There’s really no need for this, as the last minute finds him indulging in the pleasure, sans lyrics.

Final Thoughts

All in all, “When We” is a solid single from Tank.  He sings well, the chorus is catchy if dumb, and the production on-point.  The biggest rub is the overabundance of explicit sexual references, or perhaps, it’s the fact that Tank has become considerably more explicit as he ages. 41 isn’t old by any means, and he’s definitely not new the parental advisory label, but, couldn’t he be equally effective without being so blunt?

Tank • Savage • Atlantic • Release: 9.29.17 

Photo Credit: Atlantic