The obvious goal of Beyonce's 4th studio album, “4” is timelessness. The tempo is decidedly mid to down, the songs are decidedly lyrical, B's full range is used more often than not, and there is live instrumentation everywhere. “1+1”, the album's first track, is a near perfect opener with a focus on line by line phrasing and a melodic guitar solo. The tempo picks up a little for “I Care” and some rockier production and a killer chorus are thrown into the mix. The album comes to a full stop with the third track “I Miss You”. The lyrics are simple and devastating. The vocal delivery is award worthy. The production is refreshingly and melodically spare. “I Miss You” is simply one of the most honest and raw moments of recorded music in Beyonce's career. True timelessness achieved.
“Best Thing You Never Had” is “Irreplaceable” version 2.0 with some Bruce Hornsby piano and not as strong lyrics. “Party” features Kanye West and Andre 3000 brings the tempo up and feels like a future summer family reunion picnic staple. Timelessness achieved. “Rather Die Young” is a Teena Marie torch ballad, And the chorus is a monster, but it's almost degraded by Beyonce's shout filled delivery. The production and lyrics are undeniable though. Timeless. “Start Over” has the most progressive production on the album and Shout Singing is used to positive signature effect. Timeless in it's vision. The rest of the album is nigh unremarkable. “Countdown” is a “Get Me Bodied” retread. “End Of Time” expands that by throwing in some Brazilian rhythm. “I Was Here” is a retrospective Diane Warren Ballad that somehow feels preemptive. The album ends with the infamous, pseudo anthemic, “Pon De Floor" sampling, lead single “Run The World (Girls)” Anyone reading this review has undoubtedly heard “Run The World” and undoubtedly formed their own opinion.
Beyonce toned down the progressive vision she had for the second half of her last album for this one. The production is retro, the lyrics are strong and straightforward, and her vocal strength often feels like over-singing. The safe but firm direction of “4” will polarize her fan base and it will not win her any new fans or much airplay this summer. With R&B struggling for relevance and attention in a time where most R&B artists are incorporating electronic music and focused on the dance floor, “4” and it's decades spanning inspiration will definitely be a pivotal piece in the genre's and music at large's narrative.
Rating: 8.3/10
Standout Tracks:
“I Care” “I Miss You” “Party” “Rather Die Young” “Start Over”
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