Justin Timberlake - The 20/20 Experience Review
If I was forced to categorise The 20/20 Experience into one musical genre I would classify it as neo-soul with pop appeal. I agree with Rolling Stones assessment that this album has more in common with DAngelo and Maxwell than Usher or Bieber. The themes of the songs stay resolutely on the topic of romance, be it the sex-as-drug metaphors in "Pusher Love Girl," the sex-as-candy metaphors in "Strawberry Bubblegum" or the sex-as-interstellar-force metaphors in "Spaceship Coupe." "Everybody knows that you're from outer space," he sings as Timbaland's synths surf waves of reverb. "But honey, I just wanna turn out this space with you." LA Times Standout tracks include the addiction themed Pusher Love Girl, the mellow Strawberry Bubblegum, the big brass band tribute That Girl and single Suit And Tie. If you want to a full track-by-track review check out The Inquirer. What have the critics said about the The 20/20 Experience? Rolling Stone called it:
'The biggest pop event of 2013 so far.' - 4 out of 5 star ratingThe Telegraph:
'Feels at once sleek, spacious and expensive, but relaxed and intimate.' - 4 out of 5 star ratingHuffington Post:
'It's a brilliant piece of work that plays like a musical movement.'I have found it difficult to identify weaknesses or flaws in this album. I have listened to it countless times, I have read critic reviews and I honestly cant fault it. You can tell that a lot of thought and care has been put into the order of the playlist and that the tracks cohesively merge. When you combine a genius production team and great vocals, add time to the mix and a strong music reputation - you end up with a polished, genuine, classic body of work. Album's of this calibre don't come out very often and I am certain this is one of those LP's that future generations will bump and praise. The 20/20 Experience is a mature album and it speaks volumes of his recent marriage to actress Jessica Biel. If FutureSex/LoveSounds was the courtship then The 20/20 Experience is the marriage. It's grown, sexy and classy, what's not to love? This album has given us a satisfying taste - however, there is more musical magic to come from Mr. Timberlake. He has confirmed that there is a second studio album to be released to complement The 20/20 Experience later in the year. Release dates are yet to be confirmed, but one thing I know for sure is that if The 20/20 Experience is an indicator of the calibre of what the second album will bless us with, I will be first in line in my "Suit And Tie" to secure a copy. What do you think of The 20/20 Experience? Share your thoughts below.