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Lorde- Pure Heroine
Pure Heroine combines cool electro-pop beats with the smooth raspy voice of Lorde, a wise-beyond-her-years artist of only 16 years old. Not everyone deserves the title of “artist,” but Lorde has proven her worth with original hits like “Royals” and “Team.” Not only is her music catchy, but its poetic lyrics contain meaningful metaphors about love and life through the eyes of a teenager in today’s society. I enjoy this entire album- every track of it. Pure Heroine has a relaxing vibe, making it the perfect studying soundtrack. Although Lorde may be classified as “pop” on iTunes, her music is a mix of electronic, pop, hip-hop and indie music all wrapped up into one unique singer. Recommended tracks: “Tennis Court,” “400 Lux” and “Glory And Gore.”
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Justin Timberlake- The 20/20 Experience: 2 of 2
As much as I hate to say this, I’m not crazy about The 20/20 Experience- 2 of 2. It seems as though Timberlake’s best songs were included in The 20/20 Experience- 1 of 2, and the leftovers from his recording sessions were compiled for the album’s sequel. Of course, Timberlake sings his heart out and shows off his many talents on this album. Yet, when compared to part 1, these tracks don’t measure up. In my opinion, part 1 of this 21-song experience cannot be beat; The 20/20 Experience was one of my favorite of the year. Part 2 is comprised of metaphorical lyrics about jungles, vampires and murder. Several  tracks were very strange, like “True Blood,” which I guess could be more appropriately played on Halloween; “Drink You Away,” a strange mix of country, pop and hip-hop; and the rock style, “Only When I Walk Away.” However, I do enjoy “Cabaret (featuring Drake),” the smooth R&B track, “You Got It On” and string-rich, “Amnesia.” Overall, the album’s two singles, “TKO” and “Take Back The Night,” are the best of its tracks. The rest of part 2 lacks continuity. Timberlake’s experimentation with other music genres while attempting to mix in his own pop/R&B style doesn’t quite work. I still love you, Justin! I just don’t love this sequel to your amazing first release.
New Music:
- Kings of Leon- Mechanical Bull
- Icona Pop- This Is…