The ArchAndroid

Janelle's eclectism was really a start as you mean to go on thing since this was her first album! The songs weren't always a vibe, but you can't deny the creativity of it.

Its a sophisticated album and worthy of this list, just not my thang

some songs better than others, but overall kinda disappointing tbh

3.5 While it really showcases Monae's powerful voice, the "hits" ring out as post-Outkast Funk/Soul today. If it is remembered for anything, it should be that Pop artists can be ambitious in their vision and place themselves in tracks that use features, not necessarily for star power, but to expand their potential.

3.5 stars I really enjoyed the first half or so. Tightrope is a great hit single but I also really enjoyed the flow from Dance or Die into Faster into Locked Inside into Sir Greendown. The transitions between songs are seamless - it sounded like one epic multi-part song blended together (in a good way). I like the ambition and the mix of genres and styles. The fact that the blend works and doesn’t sound like a total mess is a testament to Janelle Monae’s vision. But she starts to lose me at Mushrooms & Roses and the album never really regained momentum for me after that. But I did like the closing track BaBopByeYa. Also the sci-fi concept did not do a lot for me, but I also didn’t have a lot of time to dive into the narrative.

She’s always interesting if nothing else

This was more diverse than I expected. Lots of variety on here but doesn’t seem like she really went anywhere mainstream. R and b, rap, funk, soul, pop nice voice but kinda average for my taste.

Something used to bug me about her. Like she always wore a tuxedo for years. Her vibe felt really manufactured in these early years. A few tracks felt like that too. Good, but trying hard to be something different. A few gems in there though. Definitely unique, creative

Party classical and catchy tunes. Very special.

Really appreciate the originality of this album. It was quite the refreshing listen after a streak of punk... This album was a strange mix of pop, funk, classical which was pretty cool. I definitely like this album more than most I've heard so far on this list. Although unfortunately I don't quite think I can give it 4 stars. (bump?)

Not my usual sound, but good album

I really enjoyed the funky percussion driven songs. So many artsy throwaway tracks drag down what could have been a decent album.

A beautiful voice, strong personality and bold vision. Unfortunately​, the theatrics of the album concept often get in the way of making good music here. I would love to hear her approach songwriting with a little less bombast so that her voice can take the spotlight.

I first heard this album shortly after it was released. Listening to it again now, my opinion hasn't changed much. Monae is a very talented musician. I like the concept of the album. It constantly feels so close to a great album, but the production seems to strangle the life out of every song. I'd love to hear some more raw demos or a rougher overall mix. So close, but it just ends up bland in the long run.

Meh.

I love Janelle Monae so it's gonna be a 3.

This album has a ton of heart put into it, but I feel as if sometimes that is the issue. While there are some incredible songs and some incredible ideas, the theatrical element falls flat sometimes. Especially towards the end. Overall, songs such like Locked Inside, Oh Maker, and Neon Valley Street make this album worth the listen, even with the theatrical duds in between.

I worked really hard on this one. I gave it three playthroughs - which I feel was quite generous given its unnecessary length and my initial, confused impression of it. The final verdict? Mixed. I think there are some really great ideas here, but it feels like a manic brain dump with zero focus. Her voice, the instrumentation, the production - all great - no complaints. But damn, pick a lane. There are, like, four different stories trying to be told here, and I'd love to hear each one of them, but just as she's making progress in one direction, she then goes hurling off into another. Look. Editing is a thing. An important thing. Making cuts shows maturity as an artist. I get it - this was her debut album and it's hard making something and then not using it. But if it's not up to snuff (and there are definitely tracks on here that aren't), you need to be able to recognize that and respectfully not burden your audience with 30+minutes of your B game. On the other hand, if it IS up to snuff, but it doesn't fit the current motif, you need to save that for a later, more appropriately themed album. Bottom line: I like many of the pieces here, but I hate the composition. I enjoy chocolate, mustard, apple cider, and broccoli, but that doesn't mean they should all go into the same bowl. Since this was more-or-less the same gripe I had with Moby last week, I'll give her a 3, too.

I couldn’t get into this. Which is not necessarily the albums fault. I’m been in a shitty mood all day. The album is to blame though for not getting me out of my mood. So I will remain neutral on this for now.

This is one of those albums that despite my lower rating, deserves to be on this list. I can see how this may be a lot of people’s cups of tea. Come Alive was my favorite track I listened to. Janelle Monae is very versatile and blends many different genres. Overall a fun listen, but a little too eclectic for my taste. She does have a good voice though

Didn’t hate it

Listened to the tour version which was too long

Need to listen again, not sure whether I dislike it as pretentious swaddle, or like it as a bit different!

This album has some Bowie/Prince experiment vibes to it. Some songs are just amazing and others are there.... It's a trip that's for sure. It has made me want to listen to more of her though. This album. Is going in the rotation and I'm saving her stuff to find out how she evolves over time.

A few solid hits in here, but a bit too samey and lacking the full funk rock edge of some of her other work.

strange

Very good IMO

This sounds familiar somehow?

Not my vibe

Heerlijke muziek. Lekker poppie / rnb met wat multi-culturele invloeden. Het album opent zelfs met een beetje Efteling-achtige muziek. ***

Some decent tracks. I'm a fan of "cold war" as it has a good beat and vocals. Os dancey. There's also some jazz type stuff on here (come alive)?

Dachte es kämen banger

has really really great moments, love the eclecticism, the soul. but it also has incredibly boring or cheesy moments. and overstays its welcome.

Energetic fun -- definitely foundational towards her evolution to the artist she is today. Not for me personally.

Was hesitant about this but ended up really enjoying it. Monae reminds me of a mix of James Brown, David Bowie and Lena Horne. A classic R&B sound mix with funk with a touch of rap. The highlights for me were "Tightrope" and "Neon Valley Street". I also love the overture breaks. There is a sense of style very reminiscent of Bowie who is one of my all time favorites. Now that she is on my radar I will have to listen to the other albums I hear are in her "Metropolis" series.

Good voice and had some moments that caught my attention, but this is otherwise just another album that came and went. I feel like a lot of the artists in this time/genre had albums that are a little too long.

point6.

Interesting multi genre album. She's got some good ones, but I'm not feeling it tonight.

A very hype start but I didn’t stay very engaged the full hour. Maybe if I listened a few more times it would grow on me but I also don’t want to listen again. Album cover is pretty sick.

Great album but a bit too stretched out

High highs, okay lows.

Very unique

interessant, irgendwie mal was anderes; hörbar

Well produced, well executed, interesting conceptually, but after one listening, it's not sticking with me. Sadly cannot give it a 3.5.

I missed this album entirely when it came out. I tend to skip contemporary pop releases because I don’t often enjoy them. I don’t expect many repeat listens to this album; it’s far from what I’d typically listen to. However, I can see the appeal of this one. I was expecting a straightforward R&B pop album, but this is full of stylistic surprises. From the champer-pop-esque Sir Greendown to straight the straightforward pop of Cold War and the ambient Neon Gumbo. This is a pop album, but it borrows a lot of sounds from other genres especially those of the 1960s; psychedelic rock, garage rock, blues etc. At 68 minutes, this suffers issues, I’ve had with other albums, it becomes repetitive quickly and would be more enjoyable if some of the weaker songs were cut. It’s hard to divorce sound quality from my enjoyment of albums and the compression of this album makes it sound as if a thick piece of cloth is put over my speakers. Janelle Monae seems to have great vocal range, but it’s put on a leash with this albums dynamic compression. The only thing allowed to be loud on this album is the sub-bass which gets grating for long listens. Overall I’m rating this a 3/5 – you don’t need to hear this before you die.

Wierd in parts but quite liked it, shades of bond music in places

Interesting album, lots of styles going on here. The first half is solid with quite a few good songs but I feel drops a lot in the back half. 5.5/10

Unexpected big like

Closer to a 4 than an 3

3/5 - Nice and funky

Not a fan of the rap so much but the rest is great, it gets better as it goes on

ok

3.5 stars. A couple of great songs - Come Alive and Tightrope - carry the album but some interesting other stuff in there too.

Like the smooth transitions. Great instrumentals, love the upbeat vibes Some nice collaborations, really feels like a project. Not generally my style of music but loved listening

Good, but not my jam.

Liked the mix of styles. Fun just not blown away

It's no Dirty Computer and it's too long, but nice to have some fun pop to break up the RELENTLESS 60s albums.

Underwhelming and sounds distinctly 2010. Just okay.

May need to listen to it more, but this album kind of has the scope and creativity of an amazing album, just without the memorable songs to make it actually be one. It's still a fun listen though and 'Cold War' is an absolute rager.

Highlights: Tightrope, Oh Maker, Come Alive. In a nutshell: "whether you're high or low..." Mind altering. Imaginative. Peppy. Theatrical. Dark. Stylish. Bold. And you can dance to it. Monáe reaches far into the genre galaxy (psychedelia, soul, jazz and pop to name a few) then back again. Don't let the running time deter you. Take breaks during the interludes or between suites if it gets a bit much. Overall: 6/10

Not that impressed. Too long. Some good songs here though. Might have to give it a listen later.

I had never heard of this before, but it turned out to be a surprisingly good album. Nice find!

Random thoughts: * I tried listening to this one on 3 separate occasions and never made it 100% of the way through. I guess that probably says a lot about this album. * I want to really like this album and there are some definite standouts. I was already hip to Tightrope and had that one in my rotation. But the flow was a bit too artistic and couldn't hold my attention through normal life. * I also am pretty sure I ripped this album back when I would get CDs from the public library back around 2012 or so. So it should be on my old friend iPod Classic. :) * I also remember critics loving this album and I already like some other Janelle Monae tracks like Q.U.E.E.N. so I felt like I should love this album but alas it is not meant to be love for me this time.

Alright, Cold War sucked tho

After the Overture, this album starts and just keeps going. Great energy, vocals, big band mixed with some synth/electronic that give a bit of a Wizard of Oz vibe.

Nice album cover considering the concept. I can hear like an André 3000 inspired vibe here. A few of the songs remind me of other songs and it feels on purpose. There is some cool stuff going on, but almost too much. The production is so glossy ceramic tile. Doesn't feel cohesive. There might be a better album in here. I like that this music exists. I like what it is doing. I don't think I would look for this again.

Not something I'd actually listen to unprompted, but wasn't eagerly waiting for it to be over. Way more interesting version of soul than that Marvin Gaye album I had to sit through earlier this week.

This was an interesting listen, moments of shimmer and brilliance, but it lost me along the way. I enjoyed the cinematic and multi genre incorporation elements which at times felt honest and at times felt forced and deliberate. In keeping with the best parts or this record the artist had potential to have turned out a real true masterpiece if not for trying so hard to be different.

Enjoyed this more than I expected but the rap parts weren't really for me.

I hadn't heard of Janelle Monáe and this album before. And so I was looking forward to a previously unknown gem from the soul and RnB genre. Well, the album wasn't bad, but it didn't excite me. I found it a bit boring. 3/5

Густая мещанина из разных стилей. Как будто так, чтобы понравилось всем. Соул, поп, психоделия, рок, рэп. Впечатления остались такие же смешанные.

I only know of Janelles album ‘Dirty Computer’ so this was an interesting introduction to more of her discography. I liked some songs more than others, my favourites were probably the opener Tightrope and Say you’ll go (did love the Claire de lune reference)

a weird and eclectic album, but i didn’t hate it.

This was pleasant enough.

Definitely not my style, but cool at times

It definitely felt long. Some of the songs were bops and felt like they were meant to be included, others were kinda just more of the same stuff. While I don’t think it was bad, it really isn’t my taste in music.

Quite long and not that interesting. It was listenable though.

un misto fritto che più o meno funziona

Really enjoyable. A lot of ideas exploding out of the speakers. Though musical like in it's storytelling and concept unfortunately this proved to be it's undoing for me. Fantastic songwriting but missed making a lasting impact for me. The last track is special

Hippehotellobbymuziek. COLD WAR beste nummer. Verder forgettable.

Never heard Ms Monae except for a 30-min stretch at Osheaga Festival but I wasn't exactly of sound mind at the time, so I don't remember much other than thinking it was very tight and fun. I liked Sir Greendown and Tightrope off this album but skipped a lot of the rest.

I will say it was... interesting.

Ms. Janelle Monaé! Come on out here and give a bow! - Barack Obama

Great arrangements and vocals. The concept is completely lost on me, though. Maybe it's just because I'm not robosexual.

An enjoyable listen. Cohesive but nothing jumps out.

#507. I've never been the target audience for this type of music, and I can only bring myself to enjoy it but so much, but I can't say I really found any flaws with this one. 3/5: solid

What was this album? A veritable mish mash of multiple influences and styles which kind of interested and intrigued me yet left me less than fully engaged during some tracks. It’s well made, well produced, interesting, yet the album didn’t really grip me in the way it might have and, of course, at 68 minutes is way to long. Trim the fat down and give me 45-50 minutes of more solid work and I’d be landing on 4 stars but the inconsistency and overt popness of a few tracks leaves me reluctant to score or that high. It’s a 3.5! Maybe just too far from what I enjoy?

It was ok…not my style

Enjoyed this. Interesting departure from the norm.

Not the best Monáe album, though enjoyable enough.

It’s quite interesting, clearly of a similar lineage to Parliament / Funkadelic. The concept brought to mind Mother Gongs Robot Woman trilogy, although musically very different. Indeed, quite broad range of styles on show. I quite enjoyed it and it was worth a listen

I enjoyed this way more than I expected to. It's not exactly groundbreaking, and there's probably stuff released in 2010 that got cut that I would've preferred. But it's a fun CD. There's a fair number of nice things you can say about Monae, but near the top of the list in my book is she's got really good taste. For someone in the postmodern phase of pop music, that's pretty much all you need. The quote of Stevie Wonder on "Locked Inside" is really elegantly done. So is the quote of Claire De Lune on "Say You'll Go". That + 90s hip-hop is some serious diversity. It would've been better if she had, you know, composed this music, but this is worth some partial credit. She's also just a very strong singer and makes some really nice pop songs. "Cold War" is really good pop. So is "Wondaland", although all the best moments there come from the backup singers.

Some standout songs. Overall very early 2010s in a way that I can’t really put my finger on. It exists in the same space inhabited by a lot of the albums on best-of lists at the time, with maximalist album artworks and songs that were super agreeable but just didn’t have staying power to me. Like The Black Keys or some Lumineers-esque indie rock band that was big at the time, even though obv I wouldn’t say that they’re the same genre. Maybe I’m just not that big on the 2010-2012 music-publication-core aesthetic. Just makes me feel like I’m in a too-expensive burger place or a store with concrete floors.

Sehr respektables Ding Die letzten paar alle Alben waren ziemlich toll

not my favorite janelle album but wow did it feel good to hear a woman finally <3 <3 <3

Not my thing but I can appreciate the technical goodness about it. Really smooth vocals, catchy enough beats. somewhat the same but I can't say it's anything special.

I couldn't really get into this too far removed from what I like and too eclectic to get settled

Starts off decent but it’s just too long. I assume the concept is great but didn’t hold me and the singles I was very indifferent too. The songs I liked I did enjoy though 3/5 could of been so much better

This isn't my style of music, but I didn't hate it.

I hadn't heard any of it before. Some good songs in there

It has a wide range and i really enjoyed it a lot! Songs went smooth and I enjoyed the first listen a lot! (3.5/5.0)

This is not my genre of music but I can really appreciate the breadth in what Janelle has done an amazing job at creating many unique and distinct sounding songs in this album. Do I like the songs? Eh, not so much, but I do appreciate them. I did like Come Alive (War of the Roses) a decent amount. 3/5 stars.

Listened to about 4 songs. Pretty good.

So much diversity on this album that it’s hard to find a throughline. It opens with a great rap piece (Dance or Die) and migrates through some really smart R&B (Locked Inside), though it’s hidden under a too standard pop melody and production. Then we’re on to what might be a Bond theme (Sir Greendown) + some very proper-sounding British torch songs (Oh, maker). Symphonic pieces are mixed in with tunes that give Pharrel (Tightrope) & Outkast a run for the money. Definitely hear some of Bowie’s influence, which is well applied. It’s a lot. But, Monáe is so talented, her delivery is so energetic, and the production is generally so interesting, that it makes me want to stick with it and understand what she’s up to. It’s a high 3, verging on a 4 — but I might come back to this and raise the score.

Great Production and Concept

Very interesting concept. Wasn’t expecting the intro to lead into such an energetic trip. Enjoyed it. Didn’t resonate with it as well as some people appear to have, I guess it’s slightly out of my usual style. It’s fun to spot all the different and eclectic styles/genres throughout. Make The Bus was like an R&B, psychedelic Bowie track. I liked Neon Valley Street. Can’t imagine listening to it by choice, but if it was on I could listen happily.

It was extremely pleasant, I loved the production on it but there isn’t a moment that I can point to where I said that it really enjoying this. Overall, I would say that this album is a tad unfocused and didn’t really major in anything.

Fun album, started stronger then fizzled

Couple interesting ones but a lot of missed opportunities. Feel like cold war was so close to being a great song

The ArchAndroid is a case of good ideas with mixed execution. There was mostly the idea of combining a couple of music genres with a pop touch like R&B, Opera, and even somewhat of a metal influence in Come Alive. Most of the time, these ideas worked pretty well with the songs being catchy and Monae generally having a similar energy to a lot of the R&B artists from the 60s and 70s. But other times, the songs could either be boring, annoying or (in a rare case) both. I guess this is somewhat expected of an album that is over an hour long but it still remains an issue for me. All in all, The thing i can say about this album is that there is good and there is bad. Best Song: Tightrope Worst Song: Mushrooms & Roses

Odd and a hard listen. "Dance Or Die" and "Wondaland" were likeable. I was looking for the Metropolis and futuristic buzz...sort of there. This effort could have benefited from editing. A sauna with gummies listen? Snuff out!

Random mix of genres and random features but quite unique and flows well in some parts, others not as much but overall was a solid 6/10

I've listened to enough Afro/Soul-Funk to know that I can only really enjoy about 25 minutes of it. But I can see both the inspiration and the novelty of this album. But Suite II Overture was my favorite part and it was obviously the only non-pop-funk song on the album lol

Bra album, kräver vidare lyssning men många bra låtar

Interesting concept for an album. I got tired of her voice after a while, though. Still, it was a cool experience but, I don’t think I’ll be listening to this again.

This was not some Beyoncé sound a like crap album. Janelle is a really talented singer. The music has some cool jazz / R&B elements to it. Thought I would hate it. It wasn’t bad at all 1001 album worthy: Yes - 29/49

A fresh take on RnB. I like she is trying new things, even if it doesen't always quite work.

I've always kinda liked Janelle Monae, I've never listened to this album though, pretty excited to check it out. This is pretty cool, reminds me of Lauryn Hall quite a bit. There haven't been a ton of tracks that have stood out in a big way to me, but overall it's been pretty good. I'm pretty impressed with how varied the songs are, quite a few different vibes going on.

Creative style and weave. Mellow enough but this didn’t really knock my socks off…

It’s really hard to cross pollinate genres without sounding forced. And to do it across a single album is even more difficult. That is the biggest strength here. Janelle does a great job interweaving genres that most likely don’t belong together by injecting some modern production and themes as connecting tie-ins throughout. The Fritz Lang Metropolis nod is cool, but outside of a few really good songs, this one is overall just too long and did not rise to the level I expected. Still, very impressive for someone in their mid 20s.

Nice vocals. Interesting variety of songs and styles. I appreciated the guitar solos. Come alive was prob most memorable for me. Make the bus was annoying. A couple songs brought that bass and I liked that. Where the fuck did 57821 come from? Felt so random. That’s a review…BaBopByeYa.

I’m a fan of Janelle Monáe and expected to like this more than I did. Some solid tracks and cool mixing of genre but ultimately didn’t make it to great status IMO. I suspect we may see more from her on this assuming Dirty Computers shows up. Also shout out to what has to be the best artist page on Apple Music. If you know you know… 3.5/5

Interesting and varied music, even though the lyrics aren't really my thing.

The new age synth electro genre is not my thing. It’s not terrible I’m just not into it.

Few catchy remarks but probably needs to be heard a few times to get into the swing of it.

She's a massive talent, incredible voice and vocal range and a great songwriter..The production is just a bit too slick for me. Not my cup of tea.

An interesting album with so many influences. A couple of standout tracks but the majority of tracks couldn't stick in my memory.

Impressive and varied debut album. Ends up a bit of a mixed bag but still a nice listen

Uno de los mejores trabajos de R&B contemporáneo. Janelle Monáe nos lleva a través de un recorrido sonoro hipnotizante, mostrando todas sus capacidades creativas con pistas de diferentes tintes, un poco Rock n' Roll, un poco electrónica y un poco de ambos. Recomendado, pero no sé si imprescindible.

Interesting ! Idk what to think… I can’t see the Metrópolis influence. But i really liked the third part more than the other two. 3 stars for me, good album, not essential

A real mixed bag for me. Some absolute bops and then some songs that just... I guess that just aren't for me? Wouldn't listen to the whole thing again.

“Refreshing” not a cookie cutter album, but infuses sounds to make something new.

Some good tracks on this, but a long album

i am pleasantly surprised by this album! it definitely helped to listen to it knowing it was a concept album and had a movie/story to it. janelle’s voice is absolutely incredible! “come alive (war of roses)” is def an example of that. great song. 3.8/5

Enjoyable album, but not particularly remarkable IMO.

3.5

Not my thing, but major props for having a unique vision and trying something different. Too long by half.

I had high hopes for this one but it was just ok? No stand out tracks that I would revisit and I’m not sure I would want to listen to this in its entirety again. Very talented though and I do like how ambitious of a debut album this is. It just isn’t for me.

Es ist ein Album, das zweifellos viele beeindruckende Momente bietet mit einer Mischung aus verschiedenen Genres und Stilen ist, die manchmal überwältigend sein kann. Die Highlights des Albums sind sicherlich die kraftvollen Tracks wie “Tightrope” und “Cold War”, die Monáe’s außergewöhnliches Talent und ihre kreative Vision zeigen. Diese Songs sind energiegeladen und fesselnd, und sie heben sich deutlich hervor. Jedoch gibt es auch Schwächen. Die Vielfalt der Stile und die komplexe Struktur des Albums können dazu führen, dass es sich manchmal chaotisch und überladen anfühlt. Die Übergänge zwischen den Songs sind nicht immer nahtlos, was den Hörfluss stört.

eh ok

Cold war och Tightrope är bra men övriga albumet känns inte lika bra som annat jag har hört av henne.

First time listen. Big production, quite high concept. Bit better than expected. Faint praise.

There are moments on this album that I enjoy, but I felt like it was too chaotic

Gewoon goed album maar wel groot contrast tussen eerste 6 a 7 nummers en de rest van het album. Het album begint heel sterk maar verliest gaandeweg steeds meer zijn charme tbh. Niks ten nadele van de artiest verder, misschien ligt het gewoon niet in mijn straatje. Of net niet in de juiste mood om ernaar te luisteren. Een lage ***1/2 afgerond naar beneden.

A lot of this was pretty good, a pretty interesting take on pop music. Janelle Monae felt like the sort of artist you get on Jools Holland a lot, somebody doing a quirky take on a well established genre, and the sort of thing I like well enough at the time but would never seek out. The album was bloated full of nonsense, could have been about half the run time. The shorter, snappier songs were the better ones in general. Not too sure how I feel about it, I think it might warrant another listen as long as I skip the dull bits. Probably a 3.5., closer to a 3 at the moment.

Parts of this were very good and avante garde - very much an 'artist', and other parts were rather tame (Say You'll Go is as bland an R&B-based love song as you can get). Cold War was great, and I knew Tightrope from various adverts. Really clear voice. Production not over-done. Feels like a really strong 3, let down by the inclusion of a few too many boring songs.

I had heard Tightrope on the radio or whatever. Quite pop-ish to me but there was some good moments in the album.

Really fun album. I first heard the song Tightrope on a K-Mart commercial which lead me to finding out who Janelle Monae was.

It didn’t really resonate with me, but it’s definitely a quality album. It has a lot to offer and every track sounds unique and different.

Very differant, was hit or miss and felt very disconnected, but the originality and unique songs made some of them a banger. Overall I think its strengths in the songs outweighs the negatives, and I adore some of the songs, low 7 high 6,

Quite an eclectic, soulful and unique record. Oh, Maker and Come Alive were my favourites.

Sounds a lot like ambient store music, or restaurant music, or music that would go in a big box office movie that I don’t want to see. Vocals are beautiful, tonally, some fun guitar riffs in the background but I have no idea of the structure of any of these songs are and I find that I just want to skip to the next song/turn it off. There are a lot of different styles blended in and I think that to me, is very overwhelming.

I expected to really dislike this album, but I didn't. However, the best and worst thing I can say is that it just sounds like a lost Outkast album that Monae found and recorded her own way... but I don't think it is as good as "The Love Below," and I'd rather listen to that every time. I might give this a 3.5 stars, because she is trying for something, but it just doesn't hit enough for me or impress me enough to really say I'd add this to my library or listen to again.

Meh. Not for me.

Totally new artist for me so I had no expectations going in. It is certainly not my usual style, but it’s not bad, I really liked Dance or Die & Tightrope. I’m not going to run out and buy the album but I could see those songs ending up on a playlist or something like that.

Before listening: I have definitely heard some Janelle Monae but don't really have an opinion beyond that I vaguely optimistic abut the listen. Four songs in: I liked the classical intro and the idea behind the album, the music is sometimes just vaguely poppy soul but with more interesting lyrics. Nine songs in: Yeah still feel pretty good about the album as a whole but really haven't heard a song yet that I think really stands out

It's decent. I'm not mad at this. I can see the influence it has on music I listen to.

A fun and varied album. It’s no Death in Vegas but has some of that feel.

I’m not sure how I feel about this, but I do know that I am tired of popular music, especially hip hop and other stuff along those lines, starting an album with something orchestral or such. Like they’re trying to portray a certain cultured-ness. And then popping them back in later. All while littering the rest of the album with profanity and ugliness. It was interesting once or twice, but I’ve now come across it far too many times for it to be original. Granted, the rest of this album stays away from the gutter, but the played out trope is there. As for the rest of the album, she obviously has a good voice, especially on the songs that didn’t over-auto-tune her, whether intentionally or otherwise. But a lot of it I just got tired of halfway through. I wouldn’t intentionally listen to this again, but might not rush to shut it off either. Still, I feel the only reason it’s on this list of essential listens is to sprinkle something more contemporary, regardless of deserving a spot, because it doesn’t.

Klassikko, jolla kovia kappaleita, mutta myös liian taiteellista tavaraa.

A bit like yesterday, this probably should be a 3.5. Have seen her a few times and she’s been incredible to watch, but I rarely choose to listen to the records, as good as this one undoubtedly is. Best track - Tightrope

Interesting album, definitely unique. None or the songs in particular really stood out to me, but if I could retroactively lower my rankings to put this one above the other ones we've listened to so far, I would.

Pretty chill and catchy tunes, pleasant listen.

Enjoyable if unremarkable. No big swings and misses, which I feared. But no real hits, although "Cold War" gets close.

Pretty indifferent. If I heard this album again, I probably wouldn’t recognize any songs.

3.5☆/5 10.11.2024

Ok

как обычно не большой фанат рнб и сложновато когда начинают кричать, но в целом (наверно потому что разнообразно) не так скучно

Not for me personally but like the transition between songs

Good just not me

Qobuz 44/16. Really good recording, electro funk not my thing but enjoyed this.

Good album.

It was ok. I liked some of what I listened to but I don’t think I’d buy it.

Her voice is great and fits the varied song styles. Production was great. I just don’t feel the need to listen again.

Liked her in glass onion, not so much in this album

This was different and fun. Would revisit

It is funny to me that I don’t really think that I’ve ever listened to that much Janelle Monae music. I associate her so much more with acting so music from her has been a blind spot. However, after listening, I don’t think that my thoughts behind that weren’t true. This album had some fun spots but otherwise was an uneventful listen

There was some songs I could really jam to and was very excited where the album was heading. Then, I thought the album was over and Spotify changed albums, yet to my surprise, it was the same.

The song Tightrope is very good, the rest is just kind of mid and something I wouldn't purposely listen to again

Surprisingly decent. Never ever listened to her stuff. Kind of gave me a lady gaga vibe

Pretty good. Nice.

***a wide variety of sounds and songs, some pleasant, some not. An ok album

Listened Before? N Well, this is the best album of the week so far.... which isn't saying much. I did kind of enjoy it but it's just more modern hip hop. She does have a great voice and a somewhat unique take but it's not anything I'll listen to again. Added to Library? N Songs added to playlist: Cold War

Not sure if I like this Some heavy borrowing

Funky background music but not particularly my genre, 6/10

Quite an intriguing album. Each track different in musical tone and tempo and style. At times I could detect strains of Sparks, The Scissor sisters and even flashes of Bowie here and there. One track the guitar sounds were very reminiscent of The Isley Brothers distinctive sound. Overall thought it was quite good.

6/10

Feel this one needs repeated listens to truly appreciate…. Liked the concept and will revisit….

Some tracks were great others not so good but overall it was an easy entertaining listen so 3*

怪叫

Never heard any of it, but wasn't bad.

Great voice. She’ll always be the chick who sang on that Fun. song.

Ikkje dumt

First of all this album was way too long. I do like Janelle's voice though Some of the songs just don't mesh together well. Seemed like she got caught up in trying to mesh different genres and it went off the tracks.

Different, but good!!

This album might lack synchronicity at times but the concept and and attempt for instrumental variation is there with some really deep cuts! Her voice shines! I would have thought this was a 80’s album with how conceptual it is. More of 3.5 for me

Meh. was not as good as my group hyped

Genre hopping always risks incoherence, but this album has enough of a narrative through-line concept (always a risk in and of itself) and a clearly consistent voice & overall aesthetic that it ties together the eclectic pallette it's drawing from. It dabbles in hip hop, neo-soul, prog, punk, synth pop, psychadelia, smooth jazz, monastic folk, and intergalactic funk, but it's produced and sequenced in a way that these are smooth and emergent segues rather than disjunctive leaps. JM is comfortable and confident as a performer across all of this. There aren't any big standout catchy songs and despite the genre variety it is a bit samey tonally for 70 minutes - you're meant to absorb it one go for the story I guess, but the rock opera thing is always a chore.

generic pop. inoffensive but I would not say this is a must listen album.

Pretty good, love the rnb aspect of it, the pop not so much. Still good for the most part tho, and love the big boi feature 3.25

Halfway through

pretty cool

Not normally my type of music but I really did enjoy this.

interesting...

The ArchAndroid is a huge album in the vein of Bowie and Prince. Based in R&B but so much more. Side A is really good, Side B veers into the conceptual. A valiant effort but the double album is too long. Tighten it up, the concept could still come through 6.0/10

Interesting.

Better than I expected, sometimes mildly interesting.

I’ve been a fan of hers for a long time, but have never really listened to any albums. This one makes me think that Beyoncé ripped half of lemonade from this album.

Some nice music

3.5

Pretty solid for a pop album!

Special!

Should have been the album with Make Me Feel on it

She was better in Glass Onion

Interesting. Not amazing, but interesting and good. 3/5

An enjoyable album, but probably not something I would listen too again. I was kind of surprised that this album had some very good guitar solos. 3.5 (rounding down because the last 1/3 drops the ball)

Overbloated with interludes, but the up tempo pop numbers are a good time!

This was a good album. I hadn’t heard her before.

I had high hopes based on other reviews but for me, it’s no better than ok. Can definitely see why someone might like it but it’s not for me.

I absolutely love the seamless way that the songs on this album transition between each other. I wasn't initially impressed with this album after listening to the first couple of songs, but it has definitely grown on me as I've continued.

Too much concept and not enough funk.

Very light hearted pop album with african rythmn, rap, and r&b genre crossovers. Was a fun listen for sure. Not much for me to fixate on, but it was good.

I remember finding Monae's sound fresh when this album came out, but have struggled with her failure to evolve in the decade+ since. Some of her worst instincts on this record - that make it less consistent and way less fun than it should be - are now most of her output. Ideas are everywhere all at once, underdeveloped and pounded into hooklessness by overstuffed and cringey production. Imagine if everyone song on this album was as tight as "Cold War"?

This album was kinda all over the place for me. It felt a little long, too many experiments into different genres and and at one point I felt like she tried too hard. But then at the same time I felt like she was arranging for cinema, telling a story which maybe just didn’t get. Overall I was impressed with her voice and musicality. I think I need to listen to it more and the album will grow in me. Wonderland was a delightful song if I had to choose one off the 18 track album.

Not much to say.. a bit too long, I like the concept but didn’t do much for me. Not my fav Janelle Monae

Highlights: Cold War, Tightrope, Wondaland

New discovery for me. Not terrible, but doubtful to revisit

Pretty voice

Low key funky vibe

I loved this album when I came out and listened to it over and over, but it's been about a decade since my last listen. Undeniably ambitious but unsatisfying, somehow feels like it runs longer than its hour duration. I wanted this relisten to be more enjoyable than it was.

As a 2010 release, this has to be one of the newest songs on the list. Should be interesting. Looking at the Wikipedia entry is interesting. There are at least 3 writers for each song, and as many as 5. (With the exception of “Make The Bus”, a collaboration with that song’s writer). So it is very collaborative. That carries over to behind the scenes, with over 1/2 dozen folk in mixing, mastering, production, and 4 credited arrangers. And, oddly, 2 wardrobe people and a costume designer. But again, a very collaborative effort. So how is it? Within the context of “current” pop, it is really good. It is very polished, smooth and shiny. Solid beats throughout. Janelle the more rap sections aren’t my favorites, but that works as a stand alone statement for me. Mona’s gives a solid vocal performance, without much excessive auto tuning. There’s a variety of moods and directions, which is refreshing. The wiki article is full of themes like playful, fun, lively. And that’s fine, especially for “pop”. I kind of liked this, it has some nice moments, and some really nice ones. Only a couple I didn’t care for. I may have to listen again, even though I’ll never love the 2010s soundscape. Very solid 3, not enough to round up.

sehr vielseitiges Progressive-Soul-Album der Schauspielerin 3,5

75/100

i know im not the biggest pop fan but fuck man this is so boring. it sounds cool and all but that doesnt make me enjoy it much. gets a low 5/10 because its produced so well and the ideas are interesting.

up beat, up tempo, not usually what I'm into, but this is not bad, maybe even good.

You see, it’s not bad pop music. Just not my cup of tea.

Janelle Monáe is one of those artists I wish I could like more than I do. She has such a unique sound, a real past-present-future scenario, and is a literal protégé of Prince, but I only admire her work instead of truly loving it. So I admire this but don’t especially vibe. C+

Did not expect these sounds - very creative… listened in background so no songs stood out

Surprisingly good. High 3.

The backing tracks are great. She has a gorgeous voice when singing softly. Not sure she/the producers are doing her any favors trying to make her a power singer. She ends up sounding reedy. The lyrics are cringe-inducing; both when she's going universal-political and when she keeps it personal. That said, it's pretty easy to ignore cringe-inducing personal lyrics because pop music is somehow geared for personal statements. When an artist goes for the political, they better work really hard to nail the lyrics. Abbie Lincoln, Marvin Gaye and Chuck D. managed it. Janelle hasn't. The backing tracks are great though. I wish I could listen to the album without the vocal buses.

Another unknown album to me. I've never heard of Janelle before. "ArchAndroid" is good but not great. It just sounds like other albums from that period. I like its style most of time. I'll give it 3 stars.

Étonnement intéressant.

Very dynamic pop, I liked it.

Look, usually with concept albums I can kinda take it or leave it. This I'm kinda in the middle with it. I didn't really love it, but that's not really through any fault of its own. She's got a great voice and the songs are really well made. It's just the whole dystopian cyborg thing that just doesn't really do it for me. I dunno, it sounds good but really didn't do anything for me, and the lyrics are kinda weird on some of the songs (which didn't really surprise me). Again, just kinda middle of the road for me.

This was a unique combination of genres and an interesting listen.

Target store music

Well - a lot better than I was expecting - gave this a few listens and there is a lot to like. Plenty of variety and very polished. A bit too safe but she's clearly a talent.

Not bad

2024-03-29...

A very versatile r'n'b, soul, psychedelic album by Janelle Monáe. I appreciate the different styles on the album but it is also the weakness of it because all these songs don't flow together that well. It is more like a compilaction of songs rather than a complete album (perhaps it doesn't help that it's very long, almost 70 minutes). It's difficult to rate something like this. Individually many of the songs would be a 4, but as a whole, the album is more like a 3.5/3 for me.

OK so I can definitely see how this is a great album. I can see the potential and maybe later I will be able to fully appreciate it. Until then it is a strong 3. Fav songs: - Cold War - Mushrooms and Roses - Tightrope - Tightrope

Different. Got Disney movie soundtrack vibes…

Just ok.

After the first couple of tracks, I was ready to write this off as another generic R&B/rap album, then it started doing some interesting things and turned into quite an ambitious and impressive sounding album. It goes into some unexpected territory. Mushrooms & Roses sounds like an homage to Crimson & Clover. 57821 sounds sort of Simon and Garfunkel-ish. Lounge singing. It's got it all. I didn't like everything she tried here, but A for effort. Favorite tracks: Tightrope (except the Big Boi part), Oh, Maker, and one other I can't remember the title of.

I don't know anything about this album, but it sounds like one with high production effort. It's very theatrical, there are operas in the background, just a lot of bells and whistles. Maybe it's all above my head, but it doesn't seem musically special to me, and I'm not compelled to listen again. Maybe there's some takeaway here on modern music production, that it's overly commercialized, but I'll leave that to someone who has more insight.

it's a really cool and refreshing sound. however after listening two times it didn't hook me enough to ever want to hear again (although I'm sure my Spotify algorithm won't respect this wish), so I guess I can't rate it higher than 3.5 stars. still, it's a great album

Love tightrope of course. But this whole album is lovely.

Very electric blend, I like that several tracks are continuous.

Iets van beyonces net niet zo leuke zusje, beetje boring

The album was neat. I'm gonna check out more

There are some real bangers on this album like Cold War and Tightrope. I like the various styles on the album and the ambition Janelle has with the album I think the album is too long at times and the back half of the middle kind of drags on. I can see myself listening to some songs again but probably not the whole album. I do appreciate albums like this though since I wouldn't have known about it without this generator.

I think with some fine tuning you could make this album great. Removing some of the tracks and tightening up the runtime could make this much more re-listenable. I thought parts of the album were amazing and would be super happy to see her in person.

This tasted like a Neon Gumbo of Mushrooms & Roses.

it's cool but her voice isn't my favorite

Bara nokkuð geggjuð, ekki viss um að það séu mörg lög sem færu á bestast en klárlega þess virði að hlusta aftur

Over all enjoyed. Not quite a 4 but very close… 3.8.

It’s fun but I won’t seek it out again

Really interesting album. It runs the gambit of musical styles and influences. That being said, I didn't think she did anything that was particularly memorable. I kept fluctuating between thinking she had a really good and sub par voice. Overall, not a bad listen, wasn't a drag to get through, but likely won't be returning to this one.

Ok

Gear: Moondrop Variations Mix: spaßig, modern und hochwertig Musik: fantastisches Konzept von einer sympathischen Künstlerin (mit belanglosem Pop-Anteil) Wertung: 🤖🤖(🤖)/5 (inkl. +1 für "Wondaland")

I was wary when I saw this was a "concept album," but I was pleasantly surprised. Still not my thing, but not bad.

more is more

It was finnneeee

I enjoyed this lots more than I was expecting. It's a diverse album, with lots of musical ideas and approaches and there are some real high points, but I don't find it works enough as an album to get four stars from me. Very much enjoyed getting to know it though!

Quite good, nothing i want to go back to but still pretty good. Some tracks are worse than others and some stand out from the rest.

Dance or die 👍 Faster👍 Cold War 👌 Tightrope 👌 Neon valley street👍 This album kept me entertained. Beautiful voice accompanied by a well put together instrumental portion in my opinion. Well thought out and smooth transitions. I don’t see myself listening to this album regularly tho.

I really want to like this more than I do! It's super creative and there's a lot of neat elements. Unfortunately, most of the songs just kind of land in the "eh" department and didn't stick out to me. I think this is a very neat endeavor though, and it wasn't boring to listen to - just not my jam. Fav tracks: 57821, Neon Valley Street, Suite II Overture

Great album, she has an amazing voice

Torn on this one. The project is dope, but I don't hear anything that would make me want to come back to it. This is listed low on the popular albums on Spotify, so I may dive into the newest/popular one to see. Still awesome though.

It was aight

This album is too slow for me. But I really liked 'Cold War' and 'Give Life'. Overall all good. But I don't listen to anything other than Cold War and Come Alive.

Well now, this is pretty cool. Creative, vibrantly weird arrangements with a stylistically far ranging, time traveling sensibility. Quality is a little uneven from song to song, and I have hard time believing most listeners have patience for every song on the album. Still, it was great fun to listen to. I wish we had more contemporary artists as willing to take these kinds of creative risks. Fave Songs: Neon Valley Street; Oh, Maker; 57821; BabopbyeYa; Dance or Die; Sir Greendown

Pretty good actually.

This was a nice surprise, I like her later work but hadn't heard this one.

I was pleasantly surprised by this album. I had made an assumption that this was just another rap album, but was blown away by her voice and talents combined with catchy beats. I want to study the lyrics further.

The Archandroid is Janelle Monae's ambitious debut album. She combines soul, funk, pop, and rap in elaborately orchestrated songs. Monae has a great voice, and her songs are of a remarkable range. The Archandroid is a concept album which contains a story about an android in the future. For the range, the complexity, and the elaborate concept, I tried to love this album, but I couldn't muster it. The songs are scattered, and all feel like revisions of songs of other pop artists. For me, the sum did not add up to something greater than all of the parts.

This album is excellently performed and produced. Janelle Monae is a great talent. Still, it came across as very robotic. It was clearly a performance and not an experience. Plus, many of the tracks just did not slot together at all.

Manche Lieder super

She’s had an interesting musical arc and I’ve liked Dirty Computer since it came out about 5 years ago. Much like her other stuff, this is a very nice easy listen that falls just short of absolutely great. Solid and unique but not wildly amazing. This is one of many musical works to be largely inspired by the movie metropolis from like 100 years ago. Another musical trilogy that shares the name and inspiration is the metropolis EP series by the M Machine. A must listen

I loved the first track and thought I was in for an amazing treat. I did enjoy the album but I think the first track lulled me into a promise that it just didn’t deliver. I’ll listen to it again and perhaps some of her other albums. Her thoughts on androids are quite interesting!

I think I enjoyed it

I wasn’t sure what to expect going into this one and was pleasantly surprised.

I get it, you can sing girl. Great instrumentals and vocals tho, issa vibe COMO PONGO UN 3.5

Beautiful and creative artist

Quite enjoyed it

Interesting concept, but not for me. Slightly too long.

Not really my thing, but I always appreciate when an artist commits to the bit

Ambitious and I enjoyed it but it didn't really grab my attention. Don't think I will be listening regularly.

Surprisingly good, shockingly 2010

I have not heard this album or artist before. The songs were definitely different from what I normally listen to. Some songs that stood out to me were: Cold War, Wondaland, and Make the bus. I could listen again to try and get into it more but as of now, it wasn’t my vibe.