Is This The (Real) Monae or Machine-man?

Album: The ArchAndroid (Suites II and III)

Artist(s): Janelle Monáe

Official/Original Drop Date: May 18, 2010

Grade: A-

Blade(s): 9.5

Bottom-line: Highly recommended

Review: The sophomore album from Monáe left me slightly disappointed but not turned off. Continuing with strong lyrics but sometimes the music overpowered the songs. I’m glad I did not go with my usual instincts (ignore anything promoted by Puffy Diddy). One thing I can thank him for was introducing me to this artist because like with her first album, Metropolis: The Chase Suite (Special Edition), I enjoyed her work. I tried getting pass the music to focus on the words so I did something I work hard to avoid before reviewing – I listened to the project TWICE.

The ArchAndroid (Suites II and III) is the second release (first full studio project) by Janelle Monáe that combined two albums together. She’s an extremely talented artist but I feel this album fell short of what I was expecting. The album had some standout songs including “Dance or Die” (ft. Saul Williams), “Cold War,” “Sir Greendown,” and “Make the Bus” (ft. Of Montreal). 9.5 blades and an A- for an album worthy of adding to any collection.

blades: ★★★★★★★★★½

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