4. Justin Timberlake: The 20/20 Experience
JTs third solo album has not only surpassed the expectations of many music lovers and music critics alikeit has also become one of the fastest selling albums in the last five years. Impressively, we are talking about real physical hard copy sales, and not solely digital sales. His long awaited return to music was badly needed and, certainly, something that pop music has been demanding. There is something unquestionably extraordinary about this album, and while in the past I really had to grow to appreciate Suit and Tie featuring Jay-Z, it was only after I actually listened to all the other tracks that I realized how well crafted this album really is. In fact, almost all the other tracks are worthy of being treated as a single and not mere fillers. Mirrors is a fantastic track, but there are at least four tracks to choose from. As pressing as it is a impressive, Don't Hold the Wall finds a heated Timberlake prowling the club, whispering sensational nothings to a resilient female. "Well, how'd you like it?" asks one, while the other replies, "you shouldn't have to ask me that question. Even more brazen is Let the Groove Get In
a salsa-driven feast with a chanted chorus whose arrangements are transcendent. On these long songs, the infamous Timberlake seems to have revved up his mojo to a different level. Synth strings sweep away on Tunnel Vision, while on Pusher Love Girl, the listener is treated to dovetailing warmth mixed with pure obsession. JT's semi-rapped list of intoxicants is rather enticing: from plum wine to nicotine via "hydroponic candy jelly beans". With some songs weighing in at the seven-minute mark, this Timberlake record may not possess as many rocket-fuelled singles as before, but it finds the man doing what he does best, Amen to that.