What makes Silky Soul by Maze notable?

Silky Soul received critical acclaim, further establishing Maze as a key player in the R&B scene. The album features standout tracks that maintained commercial success and contributed to the band's enduring influence on subsequent R&B artists. Released in 1989, Silky Soul marked Maze's return after a four-year hiatus following their previous album, Can't Stop the Love. At this point in their career, Maze was solidifying their legacy in the R&B genre while adapting to the evolving musical landscape of the late '80s.

How many songs are on Silky Soul?

Silky Soul has 10 tracks, running approximately 58 minutes.

Silky Soul

Maze · 1989

58 min · 10 tracks · rhythm and blues

A smooth blend of sophisticated rhythms and heartfelt melodies, embodying the essence of late '80s R&B.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Silky Soul — The title track encapsulates the album's smooth sound and lyrical depth, showcasing intricate musicianship paired with romantic themes.
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Can’t Get Over You — This song combines catchy hooks with emotional lyrics, demonstrating Maze's ability to blend upbeat rhythms with poignant storytelling.
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Midnight — With its sultry vibe and rich instrumentation, this track exemplifies the lush soundscape that defines the album while highlighting lead vocalist Frankie Beverly's signature style.
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Mandela — A tribute to Nelson Mandela, this track reflects social consciousness within the album, blending uplifting melodies with powerful messages of hope and resilience.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

Silky Soul blends smooth grooves with heartfelt melodies, maintaining a cohesive sound while exploring various themes.

What we noticed

The last three tracks shift to more introspective themes and slower tempos, creating a reflective conclusion to the album.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Can’t Get Over You

The bridge shifts from reminiscence to a direct plea for reconnection, emphasizing vulnerability amid a rhythmic backdrop.

This structural pivot underscores emotional stakes, transitioning from reflective nostalgia to urgent desire, enhancing the song's impact.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Silky Soul 6:45
2 Can’t Get Over You 5:23
3 Just Us 7:39
4 Somebody Else’s Arms 5:53
5 Midnight 6:32
6 Love’s on the Run 5:34
7 Change Our Ways 5:15
8 Songs of Love 6:14
9 Mandela 6:37
10 Africa 2:11

What to play next

Listen next

Back to Basics

1993

Go back to

Can't Stop the Love

1985

Full Maze discography Artists like Maze

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata