"The Age Of Pleasure" - Janelle Monae
(Wondaland/Bad Boy/Atlantic Records)
1) "Float" (ft/Seun Kuti & Egypt 80)
About liberation and confidence, there's a nice brass backing; "I used to walk into the room head down. I don't walk, now I float"
2) "Champagne Shit"
Just a sidenote, being a swiftie this title track piqued my interest, haha. With a funky backing, I wish there was more to this track.
3) "Black Sugar Beach"
This acts as a lead-out from the prior track.
4) "Phenomenal" (ft/Doechii)
There's a good rhythm and some really nice phrasing.
5) "Haute"
This is a continuation from "Phenomenal".
6) "Oooh La La" (ft/Gracie Jones)
7) "Lipstick Lover"
"Cause for your love, I'll take my time. Just wanna feel your hips on mine".
8) "The Rush" (ft/Nia Long & Amaarae)
Janelle's lead vocals are so pure, but the features lead to mixed results.
9) "The French 75" (ft/Sister Nancy)
10) "Water Slide"
There's a reggae feel.
11) "Know Better" (ft/ CKay, Seun Kuti & Egypt 80)
I really appreciate the brass instrumentals. "Committed to your shrine".
12) "Paid In Pleasure"
This is a continuation.
13) "Only Have Eyes 42"
This track really grooves.
14) "A Dry Red"
Slowed down, I find that lyrically this track doesn't quite fit.
"The Age Of Pleasure" is a lot of fun, but I do find that it leaves you wanting more. There are a few standout tracks, but a lot of the album sort of blends together. (78.4)
Janelle Monae: "The Age Of Pleasure" - 78.4
