Rihanna’s new album, Unapologetic, goes along with her same bold pop star personality, but the album should come with an apology for its lack of memorable hits.
In Unapologetic Rihanna veers more towards rap in many of her songs, while trying to awkwardly balance her pop feel as well. It seems uncomfortable, and the songs do not flow nicely together.
The title of the album, Unapologetic, sort of goes with this album, but there are songs included that do not have to deal with being unapologetic or feeling revengeful at all. For example, the first song, “Phresh Out the Runway”, is filled with swearing and Rihanna talking about being hot and doing drugs. This song starts off the album already with a confusing beginning of the unknown message she is trying to get across. The only message I can find in this particular song is Rihanna thinking she is looking hot and ready to party.
Songs like “Diamonds” or “What Now” remind listeners of her previous albums and love-based music; they are probably the most memorable songs in her album. Whereas songs such as “Pour it Up” and “Jump” turn Rihanna into a wannabe rap star, making her album confusing to listeners.
Most of Rihanna’s new album focuses on love, money, happiness, and being herself. All very good concepts, but when mixed together with her attempt at rap, and the back and forth between pop and some slower love music, the album becomes very confusing and irritating.
Rihanna features Eminem in Unapologetic, which was not the best choice. Eminem raps the song “Numb,” but it is impossible to understand him, or the message he is trying to get across with this song. When Rihanna’s part comes in, it is just boring and repetitive, causing a lack of entertainment for listeners and fans.
If fans or listeners are looking for songs similar to her previous albums, the song “Diamonds” is perfect. It has the old Rihanna feel, but is very unique as well.
Other than her traditional pop songs, and the few rap songs flung in the album, the song “No Love Allowed” lets out Rihanna’s Jamaican side and is totally random. It is a fine song, with a pretty but very Jamaican beat, but is totally misplaced in this confusing album.
Overall, this album seemed quit pointless with a very confusing tone and random transitions from being in love or heartbroken, to going out and having fun. The listeners are lost, and so is Rihanna.