Fischerspooner
Sir
(Ultra Music)
We’ve been waiting nine years for new electro-pop music from Fischerspooner, and it was well worth it. Co-written by Michael Stipe of R.E.M., the album uses silent moments in interesting ways. In the middle of some melodies, a beat of silence adds a certain dramatic edge. One can almost hear a note in the silent spot because of the way they framed the beat. It’s particularly noticeable in “Try Again” and “TopBrazil.” And “TopBrazil” also has a particularly saucy music video. If you’re feeling a little thirsty, it’s a must-watch because it’s essentially an orgy of about 20 men. I loved the artistic use of lighting, but that isn’t the reason to watch it. My favorite songs are “I Need Love” and “Strut.”
Janelle Monae
“Django Jane” and “Make Me Feel” Singles
(Wondaland/Bad Boy/Epic/Sony)
I loved “Make Me Feel,” and its video is a must-watch for lady lovers. I’ve never seen Janelle Monae more sexy or more bisexual than this. However, I could not get enough of its sister single, “Django Jane.” This is the track that many of us have been waiting for from Monae. She didn’t owe it to us, but it feels so amazing to hear this song from the hometown star. She’s from Wyandotte and she didn’t seem ashamed about it, but she rarely acknowledged it as part of her persona. Her past experimental story-driven albums supported a futuristic style. She still talks about aliens and autoboots, but this is a serious rap song unlike any we have seen so far from her. I love hearing this bold move of hers. Plus, we all love a good positive mention of Kansas City in the lyrics. I won’t point out when – just listen for yourself.
Justin Timberlake
Man of the Woods
(RCA)
This album should have been called Sexy Back From the Dead. It’s definitely an homage to his album FutureSex/Lovesounds, which featured such hits as “Sexy Back” and “LoveStoned.” Although nothing will ever compare to my favorite song of Justin Timberlake’s, “What Goes Around … Comes Around,” I still think this album might be his best work. The title song isn’t my favorite, I have to say, but the middle bridge is the exception. The part
Logic
“44 More” Single
(Def Jam/UMG)
When rap doesn’t concentrate on melody, I get angry. Logic, however, seems to always insure that a melody is at the forefront, along with the rap vocals. I love this song’s haunting backbone and its unexpected change in pace in the last half. Logic is now known mostly for creating “1-800-273-8255” a song on his Everybody album about helping to prevent suicide, and I love hearing a good, hard rap from him as well. He has a range to be admired. Logic reminds me of how I felt about Kanye West in his early years. He is a smart man with a basement filled with life experience. He is rubbing the magic lamp the right way. Logic is going to be known as one of the best rappers of this generation.