Nothing But Love In Terra Renae's "All I Have"

It’s no exaggeration: “All I Have” explores the impact of love in a personal sense through seven tracks. Unconstricted and empowering, these songs go over the theme of love uniquely, whether it would be to the self, or to another, or even life.

Terra Renae’s style and energy embodies the typical hit pop song in the scene, starting off with mellow instrumentals, building up to accompany powerful and firm vocals that hit those notes just right. “Lights Down Low” is a perfect start, being a track filled with love and reassurance but at the same time a dash of suggestiveness, encompassing that ‘nothing matters but you’ vibe.

Meaningful, yet something you could dance in a club to. “Over and Over Again” has that energy completely; the bass really accompanies the boldness of this song. This one talks about something or someone that’s apparently forbidden or wrong – a guilty pleasure. It goes on to recognize how bad the situation is, but reasons out with “but my heart’s been shot by cupid”. It’s fun, not to mention relatable.

“In My Dreams” comes next, having that slight melancholic edge of longing. “Pain has started / Heavy hearted / Whirlwind of emotions / Like a tornado blowing through her wind”. It involves metaphors that encapsulate emotions greatly; the emotional distress, and seeking comfort of what she sees in her dreams, the world of fantasy. Amazingly enough, the tune remains to have a catchy, danceable beat despite this sad perspective.

The title track of “All I Have” is something else — it’s an anthem, a fight song, narrating the resistance to back down and pouring out everything into the song or in this album as music is presented as the ultimate medium and outlet of expression. The vocals, strong and unwavering, does the lines justice: “Let me grow or let me go”, and the bridge containing repetitions of “These songs of freedom” — which, where is the lie in that? So far, listeners are submerged in a set of authentic tunes about feeling emotions freely, which checks out.

When it comes to having the people and things you deserve, “Stick Around” is the song to go. It’s about how love has helped her reach new heights, becoming a sense of safety – having that love and pursuing dreams at the same time, travelling places, and such. Who could ask for more? There’s something refreshing about the line “Love’s no good alone”, maybe it’s because it’s true. Interestingly enough, it offers an ample amount of reassurance again, which is very constant in this record. This song shows that sense of content, happiness of doing what she loves, and having her love with her through it all.

“Safety Net”, the next song, somewhat balances it out, acting like clarification. Firstly, it sounds and looks personal, with the direct quote of “Don’t end up like me / pick the safest path / and find stability” from Renae’s mother, but then claiming that she’s her own safest bet later on, instilling that trust within rather than playing safe inside a net: “I’m burning that safety net”.

It is honestly a strong track to put out, as it’s very moving and empowering. As always, the vocals always pull through, always filled with fire and passion. With the last song, “Party In The Sunshine” being a feel-good song, it’s only right for it to have lines that will make you feel safe and secure, the constant “everything gon’ be alright”’s helping with just that. It’s carefree, yet genuine at the same time, deeming it a great song to send off Terra Renae’s debut album.

Overall, it’s a great album to listen to. Renae’s voice is a force to be reckoned with, and the songs she puts out are about important things to be influenced by. It’s all about good times, but it doesn’t stray away from the things that need to be said. It’s bold, it’s personal, and it definitely deserves your time.