Letoya Luckett slammed naysayers when she released her debut breakout single, “Torn”, in 2006. She rode the wave of that success with her debut album, LeToya. Her sophomore effort, Lady Love, followed in fairly quick succession. However, it took 8 years for her to release her latest album, Back 2 Life. The former Destiny’s Child songstress focused more on acting during her musical hiatus. However, an 8 year gap in between albums is an eternity in today’s music industry. Few artists can pick up where they left off after such a lengthy break.

Back 2 Life defies any doubt that LeToya can still deliver solid music. The title track and lead single, “Back 2 Life”, showcases her more mature side. She sounds sexier, more confident and composed than ever before. The song’s slick mini movie style music video continues on the sassy second single “Used To”. There’s a common thread that’s quickly detected on her latest release. Although love may have scorned her, she won’t let it get her down.

In fact, she shines brightest when she grabs love by the reigns and calls her own shots. Songs like the seductively suggestive “Weekend” and “Higher” highlight her sensual side. Ludacris serves as the sole featured artist on the call him to the carpet love song “Grey”. She calls out a lover here that can’t make up his mind to commit. Back 2 Life was primarily produced by Joseph “Jo Blaq” Macklin, which was a smart move. The album has a very cohesive, current, yet original sound. This is extremely evident on standout tracks like the catchy, unforgettable, “Middle”.

Back 2 Life is a coming of age tale from a woman who knows what she wants and needs. The album has already seen quick success with being the #1 R&B album on the iTunes charts. LeToya may have been gone from music for years. She was definitely not forgotten though. Back 2 Life is a steamy, sultry pot of audible soup that deserves to be consumed.