The album was preceded by the release of the singles "Old School Lovin'", "This Time", "Free/Sail On" and "I'm What You Need". The album gave Moore another US Top 20 R&B hit with the single "Old School Lovin'". A remake of the Alicia Myers hit "I Want to Thank You," appeared as well as a medley/mash-up of the Deniece Williams song "Free" and the Commodores song "Sail On".
Washington Post critic Richard Harrington called the album "a beautifully crafted song-cycle tracing the evolution of a romantic relationship from fantasy to fruition, with plenty of pit stops for doubt and misunderstanding. Given the number of producers involved – some 15 in all – it's remarkable that the album has thematic and sonic unity [...] While Moore is clearly capable of Minnie Ripperton-style heights into the stratosphere she communicates greater emotional presence by riding slow, deep grooves that allow her to sing with smoldering commitment."[5]
Sherrie Winston of the Sun Sentinel found that throughout A Love Supreme "Moore combines sultry vocals with lyrics of chivalry, romance and spirituality. The singer's range is phenomenal; her style undeniable." Winston further described the album as "a mellow listen that layers gritty island sounds with singing violins and harps. If the rap infusion has got you down, Moore offers a mellow, sexy and talented reprieve", delivering "its message with subtlety. The way it used to be."[6]
People calld A Love Supreme "a classic soul affair," comparing 'Moore's supple, relaxed singing style" to a "a young Diana Ross with more lung power." Further praising Moore's vocal performance, the magazine noted that "she builds up a romantic sweat while keeping her vocal cool on "My Special Perfect One" and "Mood," and wrings tears without becoming maudlin on "Am I Losing You."[7]AllMusic declared Moore "one of the leading new R&B divas" and praised her vocal performances, writing: "Her voice has a remarkable range, and an emotive quality rare in many new artists, [...] reminiscent of Diana Ross, but a full-throttle Ross. Her jazz inclinations and rich, lower register also remind the listener of Anita Baker and Toni Braxton."[4]
Chart performance
A Love Supreme debuted and peaked at number 64 on the US Billboard 200 in the week of March 12, 1994.[8] It also opened at number 11 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart.[9]
