Revisiting Traces of My Lipstick: Xscape's Swansong and Their Best Effort

You heard that right: Traces of My Lipstick is still Xscape's best album.

A quarter of a century ago, precisely on the twelfth day of May 1998, an album that resonates with soulful vibrations even today emerged. Etching their name into the bedrock of R&B's rich tapestry, Xscape, an ensemble of four vocal virtuosos hailing from Atlanta, unveiled their ultimate musical offering, Traces of My Lipstick. This magnum opus, far from being a harbinger of novelty, stands as an eloquent tribute to the group's passionate vocal execution and their knack for distilling the quintessence of their genre.

The album, Traces of My Lipstick, signified an evolution and a divergence for Xscape. Their earlier orchestrations were deeply entrenched in the New Jack Swing vein that was the hallmark of the 90s. This album, contrarily, veered towards the smoother, more sensual spectrum of R&B while exuding a refined production quality. It was a gamble indeed, but the quartet emerged victorious.

The singles from Traces of My Lipstick have perpetually been lauded, basking in the limelight of adulation. Melodies like "The Arms of the One Who Loves You" and "My Little Secret" are strikingly captivating, showcasing the group's soulful harmonies and the intimate, romantic themes emblematic of 90s R&B. However, these memorable, chart-scaling hits merely skim the surface of the profound depth this album encapsulates.

The authentic potency of Traces of My Lipstick is embedded in its lesser-lauded tracks – the album cuts that forge the structural backbone of the album. Often eclipsed by the singles, these tunes serve as the album's ligaments, steering the listener through an odyssey of love, heartbreak, and self-revelation.

One such track, "Softest Place on Earth," mirrors the group's artistic metamorphosis, a feat attributed to Joe. This melody affirms their vocal maturation, with each member shimmering in their respective roles, weaving a flawless tapestry of harmonies that beautifully escort the sensual lyrics. The production, understated yet potent, allows their voices to reign supreme. Similarly, "All About Me" is an unpolished diamond. Its medium-paced rhythm and infectious chorus underscore Xscape's prowess in infusing its music with a dash of fun while maintaining its soulful underpinnings.

Tunes such as "Your Eyes" and "The Runaround" embody the album's allure. These tracks aren't tailored for commercial triumph but to foster a profound, personal bond between the artist and the listener. They offer an unfiltered, vibrant depiction of love and heartache that reverberates long after the last note has dwindled.

An additional facet of the album's charm is its remarkable consistency. From the initial strains of "All About Me" to the concluding notes of "Hold On," a palpable sense of unity sustains the momentum, crafting a gratifying aural journey. Each track seems indispensable, contributing to a grander narrative that ensnares the listener's attention.

At the time of Traces of My Lipstick's release, Xscape had already carved out their niche in the R&B realm, courtesy of their previous hits and affiliation with Jermaine Dupri's So So Def label. Yet, this album marked a significant juncture in their careers. It was their final collective endeavor before they branched out into individual ventures and creative explorations.

In retrospect, the allure of Traces of My Lipstick is not confined to its unforgettable hook or the silky smooth production, but rather, it lies in the wellspring of heart and soul that Xscape channeled into the record. The project opened the floodgates for them to harness their vocal talents, tinker with their sound, and offer their listeners an intimate glimpse into their artistic trajectory.

The track "Am I Dreamin'," a rendition of Atlantic Starr's 80s hit featuring Ol’ Skool and Keith Sweat, is a fine example. It allowed Xscape to doff their caps to the generation of R&B virtuosos that shaped them while simultaneously showcasing their flair for imprinting a song with their unique touch. Their harmonious execution, infused with passion and soul, conveyed the quartet's reverence for the past and their blueprint for the future.

Despite its RIAA-certified platinum status, Traces of My Lipstick is seldom perched on the pedestal of R&B classics. It's impossible to ignore the album's pivotal role in Xscape's repertoire and the broader panorama of R&B. The record captured a crucial moment in the group's journey and offered listeners an authentic, riveting peek into their musical evolution.

The album also signaled the end of an epoch, as Xscape would dissolve their union shortly after its release (although they reunited many times and still, drama happened). Despite the rocky terrain they traversed and the eventual split, Traces of My Lipstick persists as a tribute to their talent and imprint on 90s R&B. It serves as a beacon of the potency of harmonious vocals, sincere lyrics, and soulful production – the bedrock of Xscape's sound.

In hindsight, it's crystal clear that Traces of My Lipstick was not merely an assortment of songs but the zenith of Xscape's journey as a group. The album put the spotlight on the quartet's vocal prowess, their capacity to evoke emotions through their music, and their readiness to evolve and dare to take risks. These attributes made Traces of My Lipstick their most accomplished work, a fitting farewell to their fans, and a valuable addition to the rich tapestry of R&B music.

So, as we mark the silver jubilee of its release, let's revisit Traces of My Lipstick, not just for its memorable singles but for actual deep cuts that narrate the real tale. This final curtain call by Xscape is a powerful echo of their skill, passion, and undeniable sway over the sphere of R&B music.