I love this album. Every song has so much emotion behind it all and so much power that instead of embracing it, you get embraced by the album. It's right there in your face and it won't let go until the last track has passed.
I understand your score, but personally I would give it an enthusiastic 9.
I don't know how I'm just discovering this review now, but I loved it. One tiny thing, though, Janelle isn't on P.Didddy's record label. She has her own label, The Wondaland Arts Society. Diddy coproduced the album with her.
OMG!! I thought i was the only one that cause the Willy Wonka pure imagination. I also thought i could catch someting from the Secret Garden. This album is so magical! :)
It's ambitious like you said, and it's so focussed and well-thought out. You can feel how everyone that was involved on this record really believed in what they were doing and everything on this album truly transcends and reaches into higher realms. Even when she talks about the record, there is something that travels to the listener and really moves them. This album isn't perfect, but it's intention is powerful and penetrating.
This was the best R&B record of 2010.... She deserves more attention, but then you can't sell music that engages the mind as quickly as music that only appeals to your lower nature.
Shes got talent, she can sing on some levels, and she can dance. The real question is can she maintain the character she created for her self. Musical talent alone will not sell her. Personally I love her music, shes just not marketable yet.
I truly like this album. I recently saw her in KC, MO on Memorial Day Weekend. Janelle's music is refreshingly different. I've mentioned before that she's an Oxymoron...and I mean this in a good way. She appears to be so simple, yet her music is incredibly complex. I like it. I hope she keeps getting bigger and bigger.
I don't know why people give you shit for your reviews. It's not like you enforcing your opinions on others, you're just giving your thoughts. Sure, I may not see eye to eye with a few, but I honestly appreciate your takes. I also have to thank you for The Weeknd. I know you didn't love it, but GOD!!! WHAT A RECORD!!! I LOVE IT!! Keep doing your thing.
Thanks for supporting such a talented woman. P diddy wanted to expose her to a wider audience not to interfere creatively. Like you were saying your here for the music all the hype about her being commercial has nothing to do with the fact she is a creative, talented artist with the goods to back it up.Her music is real and positive and is worth my precious time to listen to it.
@jdarkangel11 Yeah, I played the clarinet in a concert band for 3 years and it gave me a very rich love for music and all it's intricacies And this album is very intricate and intentional and finessed and gorgeous and rich!
You are very appealing. You have a great head, attractive face and shoulders and your just very cute. Good for you. Anyway, I do believe you about Janelle's work she even looks inventive and non-mainstream. Great review. Unfortunately, a lot of the Talented artist are kept hidden and the untalented ones are all in our face... It makes no sense and I don't like it.
the biggest thing for me about this album was the length. I never got bored and it's a really long. 70 minutes i think. So, that was a huge surprise and a big plus
Love this and also got Metropolis - the style of music was not album was not repetitive and predictable - the lyrics thoughtful - this kept me captivated til' the end.
Enjoyed your articulate and in-depth review. I only started listening to Janelle Monae in the last month or so, and am ever in awe of this very talented young woman and her fun, surprising and very enjoyable music. Thanks again for posting this!
its a shame that she hasn't had all the success she deserves in terms of record sales although she is critically acclaimed (I haven't seen one bad review of this album seriously) and Grammy nominations she isn't as well known as she should be. She has a message in her music and is an inspiring figure to young girls but too many people are caught up with the mainstream and do not seem to want anything with meaning in their music.
Dude u totally nailed this review !!!! Love it btw the album IS incredible it's 1 of the best productions I've heard in a long while !!!! Not to mention she's phenomenal !!! As an artist!! Great review !
good review. Had this album for months and kept bypassing after one listen. I think I fell into what he was talking about. You have to actually SIT AND LISTEN (As a music enthusiast) and you will be completely BLOWN AWAY by this shit. Just did a slow jog listening to it and revisited it for the first time in months last week while in the gym. She's got me that's for damn sure.
Does anyone else notice the irony that Janelle plays the character of a cyborg in these suites, yet she displays more human emotion than almost any other pop act out there? It would be redundant to talk about how great she is musically, but what I also appreciate is, listening to songs like Locked Inside and Cold War, she has a deeper message with her music. I feel that her using the Metropolis theme is brilliant...it draws such a parallel with what's really going on in the world
Hype is a spit in the face...respecting you for comparing its conceptual and complex nature comparable to Indie music. Thanks for your YouTube posts...this is what I posted previously. God Bless_Diversity is wisdom, you either have it or you don't-simply stated! You can't find soul and prosperity in a business venture with factors included, nor can you create and express in art without being just that-a part of you that is committed and feeling.
I have not been excited about mainstream releases in years. This girl and her band are a revelation. Then I found out she is from Kansas City ,(my home town) and that was frosting on the cake. Two thumbs up and a perfect ten in my book.
dude the last track(Babopbye Ya) also has Night in Tanshia in the background and so much more..SHE IS AMAZING. She also knows her music history because she put so many things like this track and in the other ones..
really good review of the album, exactly what i was thinking! i love the first half of the album so much, i listen to it nearly every morning because of its happy, kinda feel good tracks like faster. i like the fact there's all hints of the main genres like rap, rock, pop and jazz. she should do a james bond sound track because Babobbye ya is so extravagant and amazing! definitely artist of the future! love love love her!
I give it a ten because it really gripped me emotionally and intellectually. It took my emotions that I've experienced and formed them into music. I can't wait for the 4th suite.
Its the best pop album of the year. The music is so exciting!
You forgot to mention HER VOICE!
Man! Her voice is amazing. But in the way she uses it. Her voice is the protagonist of this story, but its never above the music, it blends into every style she does. Not with equal success, but surprisingly well on each track. She's not afraid of distorting it, but mainly pure and clear.
Thank you Janelle, you restored my faith in quality pop music, and we need that. :)
@pokabeb just because your on P. Diddy's label doesn't mean you're overrated. her Music doesn't get the credit it deserves. Unlike the crap on the radio, her music is creative... She puts a great amount of work and effort into her sound for years...and it was good enough to get attention of diddy...and the Big Boi thing..pst janelle has been involved with numerous projects with outkast when she just started...
I think that despite being a solid ten on every musical level that I can think of, the must moving thing about this album for me is that she presents herself as a true artist. She isn't hyper-sexed, and she is a true and brilliant positive inspiration for many many young girls and women out there. All of this in a popular music landscape that absolutely suppresses such positivity and human-ness.
Dude - I just saw her live. If you love the album you would be completely blown away by her live performance. I don't think anyone can compare right now.
More like a strong 10 - seriously. Even though 2010 have had some great releases, like Suburbs, Broken Bells, Queen of Denmark etc, no one or nothing comes close to this lady. What she is doing is bending the rules of music, and to me, the Archandroid represents the best example of "the good old classic sound" meets the future. I can die smiling now...
Best thing I bought in 2010. Her album sounded more like a movie score than most movies movie scores. I also have the first EP. She is just unbelievable and her voice is amazing.
i totally agree that make the bus was out of place, but this album is great, and if anything, her talent is just so out of control that it's worth hearing in so many ways
Man, Anthony Fantano your reviews are very thorough and highly descriptive. Its nice to see there are still people on the planet, with all the frivolous content quality in music these day, who recognize and fathom true art
I might listen to it now I saw her on jools holland albeit she had a sore throat but she was a little erratic I thought it was all hype to be honest she seems contrived- channelling david bowie methinks but i'll give it a go. Maybe it will surprise me I need it after the let down of suburbs.
I Love Your Review! But I Feel That You Forced On The part That She's Under P.Diddy Label "Bad Boy" A Little To Much. You Failed To Speak About How She's In A Partner Ship With His Label. Her Label Is Titled "The Wondaland Arts Society" And The Only Big Name That's Featured On The Album Is "Big Boi" But I Do Agree With You When You Say She's Not A "Pop" Artist I Feel That This Album Is Out Before It's Time.But Besides That I Love Your Review......
that was a great review!! I like her in fact i am going to see with her with of montreal this weekend. When I listen to her I feel almost as good as when I listen to Bjork and that is a huge compliment towards janelle.
I only just got into this album. I don't really enjoy R&B normally but this is amazing. ANd hell I totally agree with the Make the Bus track, the only one I do not enjoy
Okay, I gave this a thumbs up before I heard the whole review because overall, I do think you got it right. I've never seen any of your other reviews to know if you've already reviewed her (Chase suite) Metropolis album. Hey...there's Fritz Lang again. It's fair 2 call me a HUGE fan. I've bought and gifted this album several times starting May 18th. I take it 'commercial', is not your thing, nor R&B, so what YOU call weird and ambitious (in a negative way) I call interesting & artful.
It's definitely the best album of 2010. I really like conceptual album though I don't think they always work. This one does. And it's 100% cohesive. The way they repeat some melodies and lyrics in different songs is brilliant. This whole album is brilliant.
@thiagofreitas89 Not only does she rework lyrics & melodies in different songs, but she's also keeping a through line from album to album! Has anyone else noticed the fact that Neon Gumbo is basically a psychotropic rehashing of Many Moons from her first EP, Metropolis? Especially the last 30 seconds where the funky organ rhythm comes back all discombobulated...
@tfpp1 Hey I loved ur comment. I just went back and listened to many moons and neon gumbo. I didn't even realize how similar they are. neon gumbo sounds like many moons backwards. that's just one of the many things I love about her music. You can find new things each time you listen to. Its just a trip from start to finish. And the way the story has developed from metropolis through to the archandrioid I can't wait to hear the next suites. I recently saw her live too and she just blew me away.
@thiagofreitas89 ...And I applaud her for knowing not just her contemporary music history, but classical as well - she quotes Debussy's "Clare de Lune" on Say You'll Go. She is simply amazing and I am a true fan.
Fair review i think.not sure what you would consider a 10. I think we are witnessing another rare bird in janelle Monae. The songs are hot, cold war and tightrope are great. Have not listlen to the whole cd. I will do my concept listening this weekend. My daughter once said...dad, i know you enjoy Radio music but Jazz is your serious music......well this album will be my serious music and like jazz i will enjoy it immensely.
In a world of dumbed down and formulaic simpletonism in the music industry and it's impact on society's listening ears,this album seems to come from another realm or dimension. R&B and Hip Hop in particular have taken an extreme path of monotony and laziness. This album shows an artist who is REALLY AN ARTIST above all else,leading herself. I GIVE THIS ALBUM A 10 because of it's stand alone power. IF this were the 70's or there were others out there just as good,I'd give the album an 8.
Make the Bus was the only song on the record I disliked, but then again, most of my favorite albums have that one song that I can't quite get into. I bought ArchAndroid when it came out and have been preaching the JM gospel since. Great review, probably the only review that comes closest to how I personally felt about the album.
I love you review. I pretty much agree with you at most of your points. but there is one thing I don't agree with. the final mark you gave it. it's totally 10/10 material for me. out of this world. fantastic. Janelle is something I've been waiting for for ages. but great review anyway! thx for posting
It is a excellent album. As a Libra, I am very into fantasy, imagination, and visualization. This literally opened my eyes to creativity that almost overloaded my brain. I was and still I'm in awe in the beautiful styles of Janelle Monae. It was like taking the happiest time in your life and the saddest time in your life and mixing them to make a strong sensation of emotion that emerges from your body. This album makes me happy and want to cry at the same time. 10/10 but thats my opinion. <3
this is one of the best albums ive heard in a "very" long time! the whole ablum is like a musical masterpiece, full of concept, and the surreal concepts of her songs, bobapbyeya, mushrooms and roses, say you'll go and locked inside. album is soo eccentric and abstract- not your typical album- definitely go buy it! it beats listening all the mainstream bullshit of today!
GREAT AND VERY INTELLIGENT REVIEW!! I LOVE THE ALBUM BECAUSE, IT'S THE R&B ALBUM I'VE BEEN WAITING FOR FOR YEARS, IT'S FUNN PLAYFUL, BOUNCY, ECLECTIC AND MOST OF ALL BRILLIANT, GROOVY, FUNKY AND COOL...AND IT'S HEADED BY SOMEONE VERY UNIQUE, INDIVIDUAL TALENTED, AND BEAUTIFUL...IT'Z PRETTY MUCH ALL THAT I COULD ASK FOR AS FAR AS MUSIC IS CONCERNED...NOW IF SHE WAS A CLASSICALLY TRAINED PIANIST, SHE BE PERFECT, LOL
This album is the most brilliant I've ever bought. Mainstream music is everywhere, its simple minded and encourages bad things. Like infidelity and money obsessed lifestyles. ArchAndroid isn't doing that. And that's why I resort to my iPod and keep off MTV. Her music has meaning and is clean, but since some don't understand that, they ignore it and make people like Drake famous. "I wish I could f--k every girl in the world."... Really? Over "Oh, Maker" and "Cold War" ... im done with televison.
That was one of the best cd reviews I have ever heard..you really payed attention to the music..I have been following Janelle for a long time..and I loved that she didn't change her style because she's kinda gettin big..more ppl should give her a chance..
That was an amazing review. I love Monae's new album. It is full of surprises. Interesting enough to keep my ADHD focusig on the music, and musical enough to make me want to sing it in the shower.
That was an amazing review. I love Monae's new album. It is full of surprises. Interesting enough to keep my ADHD focusig on the music, and musical enough to make me want to sing it in the shower.
Hey dude great review, I know popular music ain't really your thing but could you review Brandon Flowers 'Flamingo' when it comes out, I just really would like to see that.
You hit the nail on the head about her style. One of the reasons I like Janelle Monae is that she's "all over the place"; she's classical, r&b, jazz, rock, you name it. I love the album. Great review.
Great review! I loved the album. I listened to snippets and did not care for it, but got hooked after seeing the "Tightrope" video. So familiar, yet new. So diverse, but it flows.
on the Of Montreal track. i mean i don't think there's anythign wrong with the song, other then the fact that it jets out of the album like a compound fracture.
i didn't realize i was so late on this album, but thanks for bringing it to my attention via that awesome review!
now that i've spent almost 2 days in monae's version of metropolis, i have to say your review was bang on. i only wish you actually did delve into the conceptual and thematic aspects of this project. I think you're absolutely right that it is definitely more personal, and subjective, and up for interpretation, but it's so fascinating (equally as fascinating as the music itself, maybe) that I'm very curious about your interpretation of what archandroid MEANS as a whol.
Love this album! And I see what you're saying with the Pure Imagination thing, though did you catch the sort of candyman song in Mushrooms and Roses as well?.....weird.....
i LOVE the songs "Oh Maker" and "Say You'll Go". You are sooo right, it is a colorful album. This song reminds me of a "Movie Soundtrack". Very good car driving music.
I love this album, and I like "Locked Inside" and "Oh, Maker" the most because of the arrangement of the vocals. Good message, but did not sound familiar. Her sound was really close to the Neptunes, but not so much that I would have thought they did it.
Like you said- "Thrilling!" This is the first work of music that I had friends over to do nothing but sit and listen w/ the knowledge I was turning people I cared about to something amazing- fresh- smart-and gotta "shake my thang" good time ps & BTW in this magic world of old skool and new kewl~ Miss Monae's recording studio is inda basement
This album is awesome. This guy is really annoying. I've known a lot of music critics and most of them are just normal, well-spoken individuals. This guy thinks he knows what he's talking about but he's a total annoying wank who gives critics a bad name. Stop already dude.
I've been a fan of Janelle since her first EP, and I'm so proud of her for making such a bold and fantastic album. Your review was spot on, and I'm happy that more people are beginning to appreciate her artistry and style. Great video...I give your review of this album a strong 10.
I love this album. Every song has so much emotion behind it all and so much power that instead of embracing it, you get embraced by the album. It's right there in your face and it won't let go until the last track has passed.
I understand your score, but personally I would give it an enthusiastic 9.
Daandude1 2 weeks ago
Love it bought this album for £5 and its one of the best albums from 2010
PearMagners 1 month ago
Light 9?
This album is one of the FEW albums of the '00's I can listen to straight through.
This album deserves a DIME!
Moog168 1 month ago
Oh snap. I didn't know you reviewed this.
ImperviousMason 1 month ago
I don't know how I'm just discovering this review now, but I loved it. One tiny thing, though, Janelle isn't on P.Didddy's record label. She has her own label, The Wondaland Arts Society. Diddy coproduced the album with her.
babsjootsgene 1 month ago
i can't take it, so many of these new pop groups have an annoying show tune aspect that just makes it unlistenable
yup7861 2 months ago
Absolutely one of the best albums EVA!
TheDabest93 2 months ago
Has this guy ever given a 10? Just wondering
Ayplus 3 months ago
@Ayplus The Wire - Pink Flag
crocz 2 months ago
Why isnt this on the lp's ahead of its time list. . this album was made in 2050
Ayplus 3 months ago
OMG!! I thought i was the only one that cause the Willy Wonka pure imagination. I also thought i could catch someting from the Secret Garden. This album is so magical! :)
nikamarie 3 months ago
It's ambitious like you said, and it's so focussed and well-thought out. You can feel how everyone that was involved on this record really believed in what they were doing and everything on this album truly transcends and reaches into higher realms. Even when she talks about the record, there is something that travels to the listener and really moves them. This album isn't perfect, but it's intention is powerful and penetrating.
QUEHST 3 months ago
Her talent, songwriting, and artistic approach just kind of blows me away. If I could sum up this album in one word it would be Ambexcellence.
whathefarmersaw 4 months ago 2
Bababya(sp?) Is one of the bext tracks on the album. The layers is nuts!
MysticDiamond 4 months ago
5:07 "... which is full of Jazzy improvisation and 007 orchestration"
IT RHYMES!!!
MazterChief1992 4 months ago
HANDS DOWN A 10!
marqik 4 months ago
"She goes all Dragon Ball Z and wallops it with the force of a thousand super saiyans." LOL that made my fucking day awesome DBZ reference.
ariel12955 5 months ago
This was the best R&B record of 2010.... She deserves more attention, but then you can't sell music that engages the mind as quickly as music that only appeals to your lower nature.
sblove99 5 months ago
Got The Whole Album....you really dont know when a song begins or ends its a good album
tolutokoya 6 months ago
Shes got talent, she can sing on some levels, and she can dance. The real question is can she maintain the character she created for her self. Musical talent alone will not sell her. Personally I love her music, shes just not marketable yet.
aky19832001 6 months ago
Thanks man. I think you were spot on abt the arch. Its definitely an excellent ride! And she is awesome.
cj10109 6 months ago
needle, thank you so much for doing a review on this artist and many more!
great work man, you're an objective reviewer and i appreciate and respect that!
keebmarketing 6 months ago
Part 4 is due out this year or early next year. I really can't wait anymore.
DulBeat 7 months ago 2
This has been flagged as spam show
Sharliza is a crazier version of Janelle Monae! Type in No Go Pogo and you'll see what I mean...
masstsnk 7 months ago
She wasn't signed by P Diddy. She has her own label; she signed Diddy.
TheSeabassJR 7 months ago
Effin love this cd
judyphro 7 months ago
She got 5 out of 5 by The Guardian, URB
and 4 out of 5 by others. pretty good review too.
PdubzCrew 8 months ago
Ahhh 10 / ***** which ever, bought it when it first came out and still all over it!! can't wait for suite 4
aloys234 8 months ago
I love all but one favorite song he has, awesome review
keelielovee23 8 months ago
I truly like this album. I recently saw her in KC, MO on Memorial Day Weekend. Janelle's music is refreshingly different. I've mentioned before that she's an Oxymoron...and I mean this in a good way. She appears to be so simple, yet her music is incredibly complex. I like it. I hope she keeps getting bigger and bigger.
Mantronix10 8 months ago
Janelle Monáe!!
snowden123Central 9 months ago
i think that if p-diddy has so much money that he should invest it in to artists like this!!....no more cookie cutters please!
gavinburns11 9 months ago 3
@gavinburns11 and i only bought this album coz anthony said to!
gavinburns11 9 months ago
I don't know why people give you shit for your reviews. It's not like you enforcing your opinions on others, you're just giving your thoughts. Sure, I may not see eye to eye with a few, but I honestly appreciate your takes. I also have to thank you for The Weeknd. I know you didn't love it, but GOD!!! WHAT A RECORD!!! I LOVE IT!! Keep doing your thing.
MaSoisSoful 9 months ago
Thanks for supporting such a talented woman. P diddy wanted to expose her to a wider audience not to interfere creatively. Like you were saying your here for the music all the hype about her being commercial has nothing to do with the fact she is a creative, talented artist with the goods to back it up.Her music is real and positive and is worth my precious time to listen to it.
lz12897 10 months ago
@jdarkangel11 Yeah, I played the clarinet in a concert band for 3 years and it gave me a very rich love for music and all it's intricacies And this album is very intricate and intentional and finessed and gorgeous and rich!
SIRGAGA123 10 months ago
You are very appealing. You have a great head, attractive face and shoulders and your just very cute. Good for you. Anyway, I do believe you about Janelle's work she even looks inventive and non-mainstream. Great review. Unfortunately, a lot of the Talented artist are kept hidden and the untalented ones are all in our face... It makes no sense and I don't like it.
Larouge07 10 months ago
the biggest thing for me about this album was the length. I never got bored and it's a really long. 70 minutes i think. So, that was a huge surprise and a big plus
egge5027 11 months ago
Love this and also got Metropolis - the style of music was not album was not repetitive and predictable - the lyrics thoughtful - this kept me captivated til' the end.
curliefro 11 months ago
Amazing review. You just got another subscriber!
zenraidxx 11 months ago
you're good with your reviews....very descriptive and enjoyable to watch...she's a great artist
eekny0003 11 months ago
WOW!!! ur smart!!!!
TheZoRetro 11 months ago
Enjoyed your articulate and in-depth review. I only started listening to Janelle Monae in the last month or so, and am ever in awe of this very talented young woman and her fun, surprising and very enjoyable music. Thanks again for posting this!
amimammi 11 months ago
its a shame that she hasn't had all the success she deserves in terms of record sales although she is critically acclaimed (I haven't seen one bad review of this album seriously) and Grammy nominations she isn't as well known as she should be. She has a message in her music and is an inspiring figure to young girls but too many people are caught up with the mainstream and do not seem to want anything with meaning in their music.
Miss2sho 11 months ago
Dude u totally nailed this review !!!! Love it btw the album IS incredible it's 1 of the best productions I've heard in a long while !!!! Not to mention she's phenomenal !!! As an artist!! Great review !
taskzulu 11 months ago
This is awesome, I thought only prog bands tried to do this
livershot 1 year ago
The black shiina ringo :)
GianGee1901 1 year ago
Strong 10.
z28camaro79 1 year ago
good review. Had this album for months and kept bypassing after one listen. I think I fell into what he was talking about. You have to actually SIT AND LISTEN (As a music enthusiast) and you will be completely BLOWN AWAY by this shit. Just did a slow jog listening to it and revisited it for the first time in months last week while in the gym. She's got me that's for damn sure.
Shadow82ABN 1 year ago
fuck what he talkin bout this album is tha best. ive been listenin to this all week
wwezt 1 year ago
Thanks for speaking good words of my Janey!!!! xD
JadaTheDreamer 1 year ago 2
Decent review, AWESOME ALBUM. Janelle Monae is a breath of fresh air.
Blacksun1942 1 year ago
Did he even said anything relevant?
franciso7 1 year ago
This album is amazing. Love it
MayteraMarble 1 year ago
This guy's a good reviewer! And what a wonderful album this is....
robinandcecil 1 year ago
This guy's a good reviewer!
robinandcecil 1 year ago
HELL YEAH!!!!! ANOTHER PERSON THAT LIKES SUNN O))) and JANELLE MONAE !!!!!
sandwichesgood 1 year ago
Does anyone else notice the irony that Janelle plays the character of a cyborg in these suites, yet she displays more human emotion than almost any other pop act out there? It would be redundant to talk about how great she is musically, but what I also appreciate is, listening to songs like Locked Inside and Cold War, she has a deeper message with her music. I feel that her using the Metropolis theme is brilliant...it draws such a parallel with what's really going on in the world
tp2005 1 year ago 22
Hype is a spit in the face...respecting you for comparing its conceptual and complex nature comparable to Indie music. Thanks for your YouTube posts...this is what I posted previously. God Bless_Diversity is wisdom, you either have it or you don't-simply stated! You can't find soul and prosperity in a business venture with factors included, nor can you create and express in art without being just that-a part of you that is committed and feeling.
loveandunity22 1 year ago
This album is amazing.
fabienleon 1 year ago
where's the Pure Imagination reference? I didn't hear it. what song is it on?
RobbyWithNoIE 1 year ago
I have not been excited about mainstream releases in years. This girl and her band are a revelation. Then I found out she is from Kansas City ,(my home town) and that was frosting on the cake. Two thumbs up and a perfect ten in my book.
SLYGARR 1 year ago
Oh Maker makes me cry every time.
cdwadams 1 year ago
dude the last track(Babopbye Ya) also has Night in Tanshia in the background and so much more..SHE IS AMAZING. She also knows her music history because she put so many things like this track and in the other ones..
Percussiongurl 1 year ago 3
Best of 2010.
straightupkid 1 year ago
@Todd0122 she actually used a genre of music called Afrobeat, made famous by Fela Kuti. You should check him out.
luvlylocs79 1 year ago
Hey could you do a review on Distant Relatives? the Nas & Damien Marley collab. album?
NicolasYates 1 year ago
Mushrooms and Roses is my most favorite song of the album and currently my most favorite song. It takes me back and i love it,
PIECE2YOURMOTHA 1 year ago 3
I LOVE IT!!!!
sibowittz5 1 year ago
um... I was a little disappointed with her album. Ive expected a lot more I must say.
907musicfreak 1 year ago
Nice album and nice shirt!
Ambulanceo 1 year ago
@a1d2h Her music doesn't appeal to me, she's like the Duff/Adele of hippopish.
pokabeb 1 year ago
@pokabeb Except she's not even hip hop. lol Try again!
Dallas7 1 year ago
@Dallas7 lol she has hip hop pop elements!
pokabeb 1 year ago
@pokabeb As well as a bunch of other genres. lol
Dallas7 1 year ago
really good review of the album, exactly what i was thinking! i love the first half of the album so much, i listen to it nearly every morning because of its happy, kinda feel good tracks like faster. i like the fact there's all hints of the main genres like rap, rock, pop and jazz. she should do a james bond sound track because Babobbye ya is so extravagant and amazing! definitely artist of the future! love love love her!
shoppaholic73 1 year ago
I give it a ten because it really gripped me emotionally and intellectually. It took my emotions that I've experienced and formed them into music. I can't wait for the 4th suite.
SonyFrobot 1 year ago
Its the best pop album of the year. The music is so exciting!
You forgot to mention HER VOICE!
Man! Her voice is amazing. But in the way she uses it. Her voice is the protagonist of this story, but its never above the music, it blends into every style she does. Not with equal success, but surprisingly well on each track. She's not afraid of distorting it, but mainly pure and clear.
Thank you Janelle, you restored my faith in quality pop music, and we need that. :)
Good review.
ruukaoz 1 year ago
Argh. I want to hate it. On a big label. Popy mainstream stuff. But, I can't... it's too good to hate. =/
Rabbitthateats 1 year ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
Anyone who's on P. Diddy's label or does a feauture with Big Boi is overrated, Janelle Monáe my friend ,is overrated.
pokabeb 1 year ago
@pokabeb ....how? And if she is, who's under? I think she's rated correctly...Incredible!!!
SpeekEZ23 1 year ago
@pokabeb just because your on P. Diddy's label doesn't mean you're overrated. her Music doesn't get the credit it deserves. Unlike the crap on the radio, her music is creative... She puts a great amount of work and effort into her sound for years...and it was good enough to get attention of diddy...and the Big Boi thing..pst janelle has been involved with numerous projects with outkast when she just started...
mistig923 1 year ago
@mistig923 I give her credit for not wanting to be the next Beyonce or Lady Gaga but I still think she sucks.
pokabeb 1 year ago
I think that despite being a solid ten on every musical level that I can think of, the must moving thing about this album for me is that she presents herself as a true artist. She isn't hyper-sexed, and she is a true and brilliant positive inspiration for many many young girls and women out there. All of this in a popular music landscape that absolutely suppresses such positivity and human-ness.
denverwarner 1 year ago 42
I love it the album and I love her.
Good review.
Dude - I just saw her live. If you love the album you would be completely blown away by her live performance. I don't think anyone can compare right now.
catjoyyoung 1 year ago
More like a strong 10 - seriously. Even though 2010 have had some great releases, like Suburbs, Broken Bells, Queen of Denmark etc, no one or nothing comes close to this lady. What she is doing is bending the rules of music, and to me, the Archandroid represents the best example of "the good old classic sound" meets the future. I can die smiling now...
Jepbars 1 year ago
Best thing I bought in 2010. Her album sounded more like a movie score than most movies movie scores. I also have the first EP. She is just unbelievable and her voice is amazing.
weirdchick216 1 year ago
i totally agree that make the bus was out of place, but this album is great, and if anything, her talent is just so out of control that it's worth hearing in so many ways
AwesomeA1010 1 year ago
godd*AMN i need this album!
shes questioning the definition of music! like john cage!
PimpMyParadigm 1 year ago
@PimpMyParadigm Yeah, except John Cage was fucking insane and egotistical. Important stuff though.
thecaptainbligh 1 year ago
Man, Anthony Fantano your reviews are very thorough and highly descriptive. Its nice to see there are still people on the planet, with all the frivolous content quality in music these day, who recognize and fathom true art
DBuckT8 1 year ago
and BaBopByeYa deserves so much more recognition. it makes me so sad that a song like that can't be as popular as ANYTHING by ke$ha.
grapesdoos 1 year ago 3
more like a strong nine or light ten. but still, great review.
this album is as close to perfect as an album can get, at least for me.
grapesdoos 1 year ago
I might listen to it now I saw her on jools holland albeit she had a sore throat but she was a little erratic I thought it was all hype to be honest she seems contrived- channelling david bowie methinks but i'll give it a go. Maybe it will surprise me I need it after the let down of suburbs.
dlfunky 1 year ago
10 10 10 I loved every moment of it!
Teraneo 1 year ago
The album brought me to your review.
I love the album.
But I like what you had to say about it without exception.
Good review.
Good reviewer.
I'll subscribe.
jedygee1 1 year ago
I Love Your Review! But I Feel That You Forced On The part That She's Under P.Diddy Label "Bad Boy" A Little To Much. You Failed To Speak About How She's In A Partner Ship With His Label. Her Label Is Titled "The Wondaland Arts Society" And The Only Big Name That's Featured On The Album Is "Big Boi" But I Do Agree With You When You Say She's Not A "Pop" Artist I Feel That This Album Is Out Before It's Time.But Besides That I Love Your Review......
Dummiemissiontv 1 year ago
@Dummiemissiontv Why The Fuck Do You Use Capital Letters So Much It's Fucking Annoying, Fuck.
LPFan33 1 year ago
that was a great review!! I like her in fact i am going to see with her with of montreal this weekend. When I listen to her I feel almost as good as when I listen to Bjork and that is a huge compliment towards janelle.
ourloveourfriendship 1 year ago
This has been flagged as spam show
I only just got into this album. I don't really enjoy R&B normally but this is amazing. ANd hell I totally agree with the Make the Bus track, the only one I do not enjoy
EnokiSkai 1 year ago
Comment removed
EnokiSkai 1 year ago
Okay, I gave this a thumbs up before I heard the whole review because overall, I do think you got it right. I've never seen any of your other reviews to know if you've already reviewed her (Chase suite) Metropolis album. Hey...there's Fritz Lang again. It's fair 2 call me a HUGE fan. I've bought and gifted this album several times starting May 18th. I take it 'commercial', is not your thing, nor R&B, so what YOU call weird and ambitious (in a negative way) I call interesting & artful.
MamaTrina 1 year ago
It's definitely the best album of 2010. I really like conceptual album though I don't think they always work. This one does. And it's 100% cohesive. The way they repeat some melodies and lyrics in different songs is brilliant. This whole album is brilliant.
thiagofreitas89 1 year ago 47
@thiagofreitas89 Not only does she rework lyrics & melodies in different songs, but she's also keeping a through line from album to album! Has anyone else noticed the fact that Neon Gumbo is basically a psychotropic rehashing of Many Moons from her first EP, Metropolis? Especially the last 30 seconds where the funky organ rhythm comes back all discombobulated...
tfpp1 1 year ago
@tfpp1 Hey I loved ur comment. I just went back and listened to many moons and neon gumbo. I didn't even realize how similar they are. neon gumbo sounds like many moons backwards. that's just one of the many things I love about her music. You can find new things each time you listen to. Its just a trip from start to finish. And the way the story has developed from metropolis through to the archandrioid I can't wait to hear the next suites. I recently saw her live too and she just blew me away.
Miss2sho 11 months ago
@Miss2sho hi! neon gumbo is actually the end of many moons backwards :)
Android72973 8 months ago
@thiagofreitas89 ...And I applaud her for knowing not just her contemporary music history, but classical as well - she quotes Debussy's "Clare de Lune" on Say You'll Go. She is simply amazing and I am a true fan.
tfpp1 1 year ago 2
Excellent review. You put in spoken words exactly what I felt listening to this amazing piece of Art...
FredeRex1er 1 year ago
Fair review i think.not sure what you would consider a 10. I think we are witnessing another rare bird in janelle Monae. The songs are hot, cold war and tightrope are great. Have not listlen to the whole cd. I will do my concept listening this weekend. My daughter once said...dad, i know you enjoy Radio music but Jazz is your serious music......well this album will be my serious music and like jazz i will enjoy it immensely.
jazzblowin 1 year ago
In a world of dumbed down and formulaic simpletonism in the music industry and it's impact on society's listening ears,this album seems to come from another realm or dimension. R&B and Hip Hop in particular have taken an extreme path of monotony and laziness. This album shows an artist who is REALLY AN ARTIST above all else,leading herself. I GIVE THIS ALBUM A 10 because of it's stand alone power. IF this were the 70's or there were others out there just as good,I'd give the album an 8.
nubihotep 1 year ago 4
you are really hot
atl4xl 1 year ago 2
" She goes all Dragon Ball Z and wallops it with the force of a thousand super saiyans." lmaooo
Yardizel 1 year ago
what was wrong with my comment that it got deleted? :/
ZeroXcz 1 year ago
great review. great CD. she is beautiful and so are you.
gato2uk 1 year ago
Make the Bus was the only song on the record I disliked, but then again, most of my favorite albums have that one song that I can't quite get into. I bought ArchAndroid when it came out and have been preaching the JM gospel since. Great review, probably the only review that comes closest to how I personally felt about the album.
Broyale26 1 year ago
Is he STUPID. ArchAndroid is a 10...a 100! Like thee best album I've heard thus far!
Nekia313 1 year ago
@Nekia313 I KNOW RIGHT!!!
Dragongirl4040 1 year ago
FAG !!!
ijanns 1 year ago
This has been flagged as spam show
I love you review. I pretty much agree with you at most of your points. but there is one thing I don't agree with. the final mark you gave it. it's totally 10/10 material for me. out of this world. fantastic. Janelle is something I've been waiting for for ages. but great review anyway! thx for posting
ZeroXcz 1 year ago
Comment removed
ZeroXcz 1 year ago
It is a excellent album. As a Libra, I am very into fantasy, imagination, and visualization. This literally opened my eyes to creativity that almost overloaded my brain. I was and still I'm in awe in the beautiful styles of Janelle Monae. It was like taking the happiest time in your life and the saddest time in your life and mixing them to make a strong sensation of emotion that emerges from your body. This album makes me happy and want to cry at the same time. 10/10 but thats my opinion. <3
KavmanNaemak 1 year ago 2
Great review. Except I disagree with the 8/9. I'd go more 10/11. ^.^
hollymaria 1 year ago
LOVE this CD!!!!!!!!!! I've always been a fan of hers
watermelonkisses 1 year ago
Thanks for this REVIEW ! a man, coming from a man not of full color really means alot that you have a VERY open-mind
rayviebabiie23 1 year ago
If James Brown & Outkast had a baby. It would be Janelle Monáe.
RetroVGamer 1 year ago 2
Best album I've heard all year, thus far. It's catchy, original, and nearly every song feels single-worthy (even the longer tracks, near the end).
Movielover87 1 year ago
Zomg metropolis reference!!
ksNanoSquid 1 year ago
great that was cool
Milo68702 1 year ago
hmm, i feel like you give way too many albums an 8 out 10. still, i love your reviews man =)
thewhiteafrican 1 year ago
@thewhiteafrican yeah, this is easily a 9 and compared to the other albums he's given 8's to - this is probably a 13 !
mysterymediacorp 1 year ago
Excellent review. Totally on point and unbiased. An amazing album.
islandurban 1 year ago
this is one of the best albums ive heard in a "very" long time! the whole ablum is like a musical masterpiece, full of concept, and the surreal concepts of her songs, bobapbyeya, mushrooms and roses, say you'll go and locked inside. album is soo eccentric and abstract- not your typical album- definitely go buy it! it beats listening all the mainstream bullshit of today!
th3azscorpio 1 year ago
Everyone who's heard ArchAndroid always say they don't really feel Make the bus. It's actually my favorite song of hers :(
SoNewtReal 1 year ago 2
She's also influenced by Outkast, she's their (or just Big Boi's) protege. Early in her career she worked with them A LOT
wwe2dragon 1 year ago
its deff. a strong 9
123poap 1 year ago
GREAT AND VERY INTELLIGENT REVIEW!! I LOVE THE ALBUM BECAUSE, IT'S THE R&B ALBUM I'VE BEEN WAITING FOR FOR YEARS, IT'S FUNN PLAYFUL, BOUNCY, ECLECTIC AND MOST OF ALL BRILLIANT, GROOVY, FUNKY AND COOL...AND IT'S HEADED BY SOMEONE VERY UNIQUE, INDIVIDUAL TALENTED, AND BEAUTIFUL...IT'Z PRETTY MUCH ALL THAT I COULD ASK FOR AS FAR AS MUSIC IS CONCERNED...NOW IF SHE WAS A CLASSICALLY TRAINED PIANIST, SHE BE PERFECT, LOL
SIRGAGA123 1 year ago
This album is the most brilliant I've ever bought. Mainstream music is everywhere, its simple minded and encourages bad things. Like infidelity and money obsessed lifestyles. ArchAndroid isn't doing that. And that's why I resort to my iPod and keep off MTV. Her music has meaning and is clean, but since some don't understand that, they ignore it and make people like Drake famous. "I wish I could f--k every girl in the world."... Really? Over "Oh, Maker" and "Cold War" ... im done with televison.
0Kimchi0 1 year ago 2
@0Kimchi0 "Oh Maker" is amazing and very fun!! and beautiful!!
SIRGAGA123 1 year ago
That was one of the best cd reviews I have ever heard..you really payed attention to the music..I have been following Janelle for a long time..and I loved that she didn't change her style because she's kinda gettin big..more ppl should give her a chance..
Pjaxmusic 1 year ago
I bought this album becasue of this review. It's simply amazing! Candy for the ears!
HinesCB 1 year ago
You just earned yourself a subscription.
kuraruka 1 year ago
This has been flagged as spam show
That was an amazing review. I love Monae's new album. It is full of surprises. Interesting enough to keep my ADHD focusig on the music, and musical enough to make me want to sing it in the shower.
talili87 1 year ago
That was an amazing review. I love Monae's new album. It is full of surprises. Interesting enough to keep my ADHD focusig on the music, and musical enough to make me want to sing it in the shower.
talili87 1 year ago
@talili87 LOL, RIGHT, BEST OF BOTH WORLDZz!!
SIRGAGA123 1 year ago
Hey dude great review, I know popular music ain't really your thing but could you review Brandon Flowers 'Flamingo' when it comes out, I just really would like to see that.
8bitprice 1 year ago
You hit the nail on the head about her style. One of the reasons I like Janelle Monae is that she's "all over the place"; she's classical, r&b, jazz, rock, you name it. I love the album. Great review.
NubianFeenx 1 year ago
(After realizing what you were doing in the beginning with the tree) Yeah.... You're not too big on dancing are you? lol
neoshaolin1 1 year ago
Great review! I loved the album. I listened to snippets and did not care for it, but got hooked after seeing the "Tightrope" video. So familiar, yet new. So diverse, but it flows.
randy2724 1 year ago
on the Of Montreal track. i mean i don't think there's anythign wrong with the song, other then the fact that it jets out of the album like a compound fracture.
i didn't realize i was so late on this album, but thanks for bringing it to my attention via that awesome review!
marlonthompson 1 year ago
now that i've spent almost 2 days in monae's version of metropolis, i have to say your review was bang on. i only wish you actually did delve into the conceptual and thematic aspects of this project. I think you're absolutely right that it is definitely more personal, and subjective, and up for interpretation, but it's so fascinating (equally as fascinating as the music itself, maybe) that I'm very curious about your interpretation of what archandroid MEANS as a whol.
I also second your opinion
marlonthompson 1 year ago
so...awesomee
marlonthompson 1 year ago
Definitely a good album
90mv 1 year ago
So far, this is one of the best albums I've heard this year.
NitekMuscle 1 year ago
Great review! But, FYI she is not on Diddy's label. She has her own label.
EmbracetheButterfly 1 year ago 2
ITS A TRIP ITS GOT A FUNKY BEAT AND I CAN BUG OUT TO IT. At last rnb genre dancing magic.
mingpowman76 1 year ago
I'm a little in love with him.
ValEsparza 1 year ago
this dude is dope
shotta5243 1 year ago
Love this album! And I see what you're saying with the Pure Imagination thing, though did you catch the sort of candyman song in Mushrooms and Roses as well?.....weird.....
trife138 1 year ago
i LOVE the songs "Oh Maker" and "Say You'll Go". You are sooo right, it is a colorful album. This song reminds me of a "Movie Soundtrack". Very good car driving music.
ChalleBrown 1 year ago 3
I love this album, and I like "Locked Inside" and "Oh, Maker" the most because of the arrangement of the vocals. Good message, but did not sound familiar. Her sound was really close to the Neptunes, but not so much that I would have thought they did it.
capricorn7nc 1 year ago 2
I was really cynical towards this album for similar reasons that you were, when I gave it a chance, I loved it. It's great. Well done mnstrm.
4Colours 1 year ago
Like you said- "Thrilling!" This is the first work of music that I had friends over to do nothing but sit and listen w/ the knowledge I was turning people I cared about to something amazing- fresh- smart-and gotta "shake my thang" good time ps & BTW in this magic world of old skool and new kewl~ Miss Monae's recording studio is inda basement
Thanx for being music nerd of heroic proportions
xoxo
sideorder 1 year ago
Your hilarious! Thank goodness someone can have a sense of humor and a great ear for music. Keep it up!
surrounded 1 year ago
This album is awesome. This guy is really annoying. I've known a lot of music critics and most of them are just normal, well-spoken individuals. This guy thinks he knows what he's talking about but he's a total annoying wank who gives critics a bad name. Stop already dude.
benjaminoks 1 year ago
hate the guitar solos in this album.
SaveAD 1 year ago
Great review! Would it be possible to have the songs you're talking about play lightly in the background? That would be fair use, no?
captainLAGER 1 year ago
I've been a fan of Janelle since her first EP, and I'm so proud of her for making such a bold and fantastic album. Your review was spot on, and I'm happy that more people are beginning to appreciate her artistry and style. Great video...I give your review of this album a strong 10.
brand929 1 year ago 5
Its nice to see the funk come back on a great LP. Go Janelle!
andr0zz 1 year ago
I forgot to mention, she so gosh darn cute I just want to bite her!
Lee of Detroit
leeluv96 1 year ago
This has been flagged as spam show
@leeluv96 i know right!!!
Dragongirl4040 1 year ago