After an album as diverse, unique, and fun as 2010's The ArchAndroid, it's almost expected that the follow-up won't be able to achieve the greatness of its predecessor. I mean, how many ideas can one artist have?
I am excited to hear that this is not the case with The Electric Lady. Janelle sounds just as on top of her game as she did in 2010. The primary difference between that album and this is the lack of diversity. But what The Electric Lady lacks in rock or folk elements, it gains in a dedication to achieving a unique R&B sound.
Don't get the wrong idea that by focusing on one primary genre that this album feels stagnant. One second she's singing a smooth duet with Miguel, the next she's grooving to a guitar riff that could have been pulled straight out of a Funkadelic song. Stevie Wonderesque synths dance all over "Ghetto Woman", and Janelle sounds like the leader of a gospel choir in "Victorious".
Guests include Erykah Badu, Solange, and Prince, but they serve more importantly as inspirations for Janelle's funky sound than for their voices--this is without a doubt Janelle's show. Her vocal performances are really excellent, on "Look Into My Eyes", her voice is downright cinematic (the interlude into "Suite V Electric Overture" helps to lend the cinematic effect).
I love the sound Janelle has honed on this record! I am also really hoping her song with Miguel (below) gets some radio play. It's time for the world to know Janelle as more than a Target/Covergirl commercial star!
Totally agree. I love the woman. And I can only hope she sustains this level of creativity for more albums to come.
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