Let Love Rule, the debut album by Lenny Kravitz, is a powerful introduction to his unique blend of rock, funk, soul, and psychedelia. Released in 1989, the album showcases Kravitz's diverse musical influences and his ability to meld them into a cohesive sound that would define his career.
Recorded between 1988-89, one may suggest that Let Love Rule would have an 80s sheen to it, yet it is, arguably, completely void of the era’s sonic stylings for Kravitz created a timeless masterpiece. Perhaps it was the lack of external influences, during the recording process, for Kravitz was the sole producer, primary writer, and instrumentalist for the entire album. If nothing else, the album remains true to Kravitz's vision and he didn't compromise or limit himself by producing music to fit into the zeitgeist.
While Mama Said and Are You Gonna Go My Way would catapult Kravitz to levels of success only dreamed of, Let Love Rule wasn’t an immediate hit but did prove just how talented Kravitz is. While it could be suggested that the albums above deliver a more polished production, it’s the rawer production of Let Love Rule that is part of its appeal; one which provides an early blueprint that Kravitz would continue to refine throughout the years.
Speaking of production quality, the recording, mix, and mastering are superb. Again, it doesn’t fall into the sonic trap of many late 80s-era recordings but forges a path that has made Kravitz one of the most revered musicians of our time. As it pertains to the lossless Apple Music stream, one really couldn’t ask for anything more for it offers a beautiful reproduction that’s lovely to listen to. The smooth, warm, and full-bodied sound is so captivating that I don’t feel the need to seek the album out, on another format, for the stream is really that good.
Sitting On Top Of The World opens the album with a laid-back groovy vibe. Kravitz's smooth vocals and the jangly guitars create an eclectic, but appealing, composition that sets the tone for the music to come.
Let Love Rule, as an anthem of love and unity, is timeless. The chosen style for the song ensures that this is one song you’ll be seeking out, outside of the album’s structure, for it’s a captivating Kravitz performance. The blending of acoustic guitar, steady drums, and soulful organ, along with Karl Denson’s exceptional saxophone elements, results in one of the best songs from the album and is the quintessential title track.
Freedom Train picks up the pace with a funky rhythm that will get you head-bopping from the very first note. The powerful bassline and dynamic instrumentation contribute to the sonic bliss you’ll experience with Freedom Train. However, it’s the rawness of Kravitz’s vocals that creates an interesting contrast. In many respects, while it’s a multi-layered composition, there’s also a freestyle element to the song that will appeal to many.
My Precious Love is a beautiful soulful ballad that showcases Kravitz’s ability to convey emotion through his music. Sonically, My Precious Love is magnificent and has been recorded so well that you’ll sense Kravitz is in the room as you pump the volume on this exceptional tune.
I Build This Garden For Us is an absolute masterpiece featuring a lush and dreamy atmosphere that’s reminiscent of the intricate compositions on The Beatles’ Abbey Road. With that in mind, it’s so incredible that had it been written by Lennon-McCartney, nobody would have been surprised; it’s that good!
Fear delves into introspective territory, with haunting melodies and contemplative lyrics. It’s another incredible hidden gem, one that is only heightened by the song’s overall moody production.
Does Anybody Out There Even Care is a solid album-only tune. Sometimes that is all that’s needed for an album experience to be profound for each song need not be a hit, or even a hidden gem, in order to produce a thoroughly enjoyable record.
Mr. Cab Driver is one of the more politically charged songs on the album as it speaks to issues of racism and prejudice. Interestingly, the upbeat tempo and catchy chorus provide a stark contrast to the serious subject matter. The result is that Mr. Cab Driver isn’t overly confrontational, but is thought-provoking, while also being accessible.
Rosemary is a lovely song that delivers a slight change of pace with its acoustic, folk-inspired, sound. As the song progresses, Kravitz's emotive vocal performance, and delicate guitar work, take centre stage and form a thoroughly enjoyable and incredibly immersive presentation.
Be is simply magnificent. While its musical composition is held back, the low-end rhythm provides the ideal background for Kravitz’s incredible vocals to shine through, atop the musical bed. The result is that Be is not only one of the best songs from Let Love Rule, but it is among the greatest songs that Kravitz has ever recorded.
Blues For Sister Someone is raw, yet smooth, with a compelling gritty guitar riff set to a classic blues backdrop with a modern twist. What’s not to like?
Empty Hands is one of the three bonus tracks added to the CD releases (and now streaming editions) of Let Love Rule but it’s somewhat lacklustre. It isn’t fundamentally bad, but as is the case with bonus tracks, not all are exceptional and there is certainly a case to be made that Empty Hands should have been omitted from the album for it fails to enhance the record.
Flower Child closes the album with a free-spirited psychedelically-infused tune. As with Empty Hands, it isn’t the strongest song but it’s a solid closer that will compel you to listen to the record again and reflect on the music you’ve just heard.
Let Love Rule, despite not being an instant hit, is an exceptional debut that established Lenny Kravitz as not only an incredibly talented and multifaceted artist but one who possesses a unique and eclectic style that remains relevant and timeless. His ability to draw from various musical influences and create something fresh and authentic is evident throughout and results in a rich and rewarding experience for all music lovers.