As the title suggests, Things Are Getting Better marks a more optimistic turn for Jimetta Rose and her choir, the Voices of Creation. This second album contrasts with their debut, How Good It Is, which, while positive, was tinged with grief due to Rose’s personal losses in early 2020. The debut’s reference to sunshine felt like a cautious optimism, but on *Things Are Getting Better*, the opening track “Portals” propels listeners into the light, with a chorus about “Stepping into portals chasin’ sunshine.”
A notable difference between this album and the first lies in the rhythms. While *How Good It Is* featured organic production by Mario and Samantha Caldato with Allakoi Peete as the sole percussionist, *Things Are Getting Better* was guided by Rose, Peete, and musical director/keyboardist Jack Maeby. Peete is now one of five credited with drum production. “Everyday Blessings” starts like a mid-’80s slow jam with a simple yet effective drum machine intro. Lead vocalist Khalila Gardner Adelabu’s praise transforms the song into funky gospel-house, complete with boogieing synthesizer bass and hard-hitting drums. “Everywhere I Look (Love Is Everywhere)” captures a joyous chaos reminiscent of Pharoah Sanders’ spiritual jazz, brimming with saxophones, a heavy drum break, and turntable accents that enhance rather than obscure the vocals. “To Each a Zone” is a buoyant self-focus mantra, referencing Faith, Hope & Charity’s early-’70s hit “To Each His Own,” a staple in Erykah Badu’s setlists for years. Rose and her choir deliver words of affirmation, wisdom, and self-love with conviction and power, making them feel genuine rather than trite, even amidst global unrest. The harmonies throughout the album are consistently heavenly, reinforcing the uplifting message. *Things Are Getting Better* is a testament to resilience and positivity, beautifully brought to life by Rose and the Voices of Creation.
English