The ArchAndroid

I know Janelle only as guest vocals on many of songs I dig, and have always wanted to dive into her solo stuff. Was happy to see this pop up on the project. She sounds like nothing else of the time. Super interesting and unique, with velvety vocals. I love how creative and genre bending this album is. Makes me want to dive into the rest of her catalogue. Also high kudos that this was her debut album.

Absolutely incredible album.

Me pareció un buen álbum en tanto que tiene impronta de pop comercial, pero transgrede el estilo rompiendo con recursos que se salen de la norma. La combinación con estilos de música afro, la eclética variedad estética en los temas, los distintos recursos utilizados en la voz. Todo esto hace que el álbum sea especial. Además, al ser desarrollado como un trabajo conceptual, la fluidez entre los temas está pensada excelentemente y hace que la escucha como álbum tenga cohesión y sentido. Aunque si considero que el álbum es excesivamente largo, y podría prescindir de varios tracks para generar un mejor impacto. A nivel personal no conecté mucho con los temas, por lo que no es un álbum que particularmente me guste a pesar de que aprecie el trabajo.

This is amazing, I absolutely loved this.

норм альбомыч, забавный. Но концовка слита

I was already familiar with Janelle Monáe back in 2023 when I checked out her recent album, The Age of Pleasure. I remember enjoying the wild genre experimentation on that record, which seems emblematic of her music. Case in point, her debut studio album, The ArchAndroid, employs a rich blend of soul, funk, R&B, psychedelic rock, cabaret, doo wop, and other styles, all wrapped under Janelle's commanding mezzo-soprano voice and immaculate production. Just the opening run of the string orchestration of "Suite II Overture", the quick rapping over the electronic rattle of "Dance or Die", the big band swing of "Faster", and the bouncing funk of "Locked Inside" showcase a good sampling of the flashy swerves offered as the tracks neatly segue into each other. These musical shifts help keep engagement throughout the runtime across two suites. That said, there's more to this record than the instrumental quality and flow. The ArchAndroid serves as parts two and three of a seven-part Afrofuturist concept series, centered around Janelle's alter ego Cindi Mayweather, designation 57821, a hypersexualized android who's on the run from the authorities because she dared fall in love with a human. While her debut EP, Metropolis: The Chase Suite, lays out the setting and the beginnings of Cindi's rebellion, it's okay to start with this record, as "Dance or Die" gives a quick rundown of this world of man and machine as Cindi goes on the run. Eventually, we are introduced to her love interest, Sir Anthony Greendown, and explore their romantic connection. Meanwhile, Cindi herself learns to accept her place as a messianic figure in liberating the rest of the android population, culminating in the ending where she bids farewell to her lover as she begins her travel back in time to save her people. Like all good science fiction, the story here is ripe with allegory. Janelle herself has considered androids to be the new "other", representing the various identities that have long been oppressed and deserve to be free and loved. Janelle herself is a lot of "other" - black, feminine, and queer - and through Cindi, she expresses her desires while trying to live up to high expectations. Probably the most notable tracks that give insight into these feelings are "Oh, Maker", where she calls to a higher being to express her forbidden love, "Mushrooms and Roses", where she's also fascinated by another rebelling female android named Blueberry Mary, and "Say You'll Go", where she reaffirms her love for Anthony and asks him to join her on her quest for android freedom. The album serves as an ode to love in times of crisis while offering hope to others as they choose how they want to live without fear. The lyrical subtext here will become full-on text later with The Age of Pleasure, but it is nonetheless welcoming. At the end of the day, I enjoyed The ArchAndroid. I'm sure it probably makes more sense on stage than on record, but the execution is grand and makes Janelle's world feel like a future worth fighting for.

Love her voice and creative lyrics. Would rate it a 5 but got tired of the androids.

Loads of variety. Sometimes urgent and compelling, sometimes gentle and twee. Didn't even mind the rap too much.

i like her voice and the music sounds like someone i can’t put my finger on. pop i don’t miss the sound of

Not my thing but she is obviously very talented and creative. It has its moments though!

Janelle is one of the most creative and beautiful voices going today. I have a huge crush on her. I don’t like this as much as her more recent albums but it’s a seriously strong concept and shows great variety.

I'm such a fool. I'm such a goddamn fool. I know Janelle Monáe's two most recent albums are some of my favourite albums, but I've never gone and listened to her back catalogue. Why have I let myself miss out for so long! What a bloody good album. I love the thematic nature, the genre switchups, the dancibility and just those oh-so-cool Janelle Monáe vibes. 5 stars, going straight to the top of the roster.

Mad album

This was a wild album; can’t explain the eclectic sound of it. Def neo-soul, but can’t put my finger on what else…

How have I never heard of this before? Discovering great albums that are off my radar is the reason I’m here. Big score. Zero complaints. Beautiful music.

Wow this was exciting! Definitely felt very artistic and grand, with amazing dynamics and soulful vocals. 5/5

Loved this one, super experimental, but amazing coherent storytelling. All in all a very enjoyable listen

Some nice listening, one banger in the group, Tightrope was quite good. The rest feels heavily inspired by Outkast. The final tracks remind me of listening to Frank Sinatra at his peak, the lyrics are topical\universal, the sound is smooth and the timing is impeccable, but it holds no lure for me.

I really enjoy Janelle Monae as an artist. She is incredibly unique, and I'm so happy to see her included on this list. She's very talented. This album has a bit of everything, touching on multiple genres and some songs which are a unique genre all on their own. Yet, somehow, it's a cohesive product. It's not really the type of music I go for, but I thought it was a fun modern album to listen through.

This Album felt like it was out if a movie. Cool music and all, but not somethjng tjat I would listen to again.

Brava, Janelle! I have heard bits and pieces over the years. Entire album is a masterpiece. 5 stars.

I remember loving the singles from this when it came out. Wonder what the whole thing is like. Orchestral prelude. Interesting. It does slip into a loungey soul bit briefly. The album starts proper with a broken beat/salsa/rap kind of thing. The brukt rhythm track morphs into a quickstep for Faster. I stopped the album to watch lindy hoppers for a while after that. Locked On continues to borrow from british soul 4Hero/Gilles Peterson type stuff. Beat kind of lacks groove though. It kind of starts to get pretty psychedelic at this point, Sir Greendown could have been a Doors song. Cold War is a bit meh, a bit Disney? The single Tightrope recovers the groove. I paused again after Suite III Overture to go through Simon Reynolds' review of Love Island grime tracks. Make the Bus is fun for sounding like a really ADHD Prince track. The album kind of continues along on this trajectory, there's neo-rockabilly and neo-rnb and neo-soul and neo-funk, psych-funk, afrofuturism etc. ect. all very pop-centred. Its a testament to an amazing songwriting talent to have so much material. Unfortunately it suffers the same fate as a lot of prog albums that its kind of over-long and virtuosic. It would have been much more powerful with more focus. Like the Kate Bush album it does the spoken word samples littered throughout, the smoking gun of prog. This really should be my thing but its just hard to stay engaged for the full hour.

I often lament the death of music, rock n roll in particular. Part of the complaint is that most popular music doesn't have a lot "real" instruments. Just a keyboard and a drum machine with some young diva yowling or some rapping. No bridges, no time changes. Blech! Oh, and a conversation from just a day or two ago about what concept albums are. Tricky to pull off, but when good, they can be great! (Operation Mindcrime, The Wall, Pink World and more.) Then along comes this pop diva that I had written off as the same old (new) thing because I'd only ever heard Tightrope and it falls into that blech territory. But this is actually quite interesting. All kids of musical instruments, all sort of genre hopping, and it's a concept album! Serious credit to this young lady for taking these chances. I don't know that she got as much credit for all of that. I certainly never heard anything about it. (I read a lot of music news and am always seeking new, good music.) While I do give her all that credit, it's still a bit out of my wheelhouse. I don't imagine I'd listen to it more than once or twice again. But for folks that are younger that have been raised on simple beats and cicada drums, this might get them to explore a bit. I want to give it 4 stars to attract attention to it and show respect for the gumption it took to do this in the modern music environment, I have to score it based on how much I liked it and would I listen again.

Man, another long as shit album. I’m grateful for having recently revised my two-listen policy as I would have probably blown my head off by now. In any case, I’m curious to see what’s in store for me, as I’ve never heard of Janelle Monae. Something electronic, if I’m to guess. Yeah, it's okay. A bit of an electronic/soul sound going on, with some very 70s guitar performances. On one hand this music is quite unique, though on the other hand the more contemporary production continually strikes me with feelings of deja-vu. Maybe this album laid the groundwork for all the electronic/pop music that came afterwards. The sequencing of these songs is also quite strange – I never felt like that the album was building towards something or going anywhere in particular. “Locked Inside” has a rock-solid chorus, and I enjoy the plucky instrumental. “Tightrope” has a solid instrumental – I like the bass, the wavy electronic sound that appears during Big Boi’s section and the strings near the end of the song. The songwriting/vocal performances aren’t half bad either, though I must admit that they lose me as the song progresses “Mushrooms & Roses” is a solid track, and among the more authentically “old” songs of the album. The pairing of the strings with the organ works surprisingly well, and I enjoy the lo-fi, crunchy vocals. “Say You’ll Go” is a solid late-album track. I dig the pensive sound and the way the vocals build on one another. The Clair De Lune during the outro was a nice touch, too. Can’t check the book for why this is in here as I sadly only have the 2005 copy, though Wikipedia should suffice. A concept album, which I didn’t pick up on at all. Compared to Bowie, Outkast, Prince and Michael Jackson – some big comparisons. Massively acclaimed and regarded as one of the best albums of 2010. Yeah, I get the impression that this is a solid pick. I guess I can cosign, even if I was kind of bored by this album.

Nice variety

A very nice surprise!! I didn’t love all songs, but most of them are really good and there’s a few amazing ones as well.

2,6/5

Surprised

By luck of the draw, this is the first album that I'd actually heard before. When I first heard it, I was dazzled by the rapid-fire tumble of genres but on revisiting, I'm not sure how the genre hopping supports the themes she's going for. The James Brown homage on Tightrope is such a natural fit for her talents that it doesn't really require any further justification, but what about the Beatles/Donovan/psych pastiche on Mushrooms & Roses?

Bah

I liked bits of it a lot, but I also thought you could tell who her influences were, but you couldn’t tell who she is.

Not for me.

Had no idea what to expect from this one. A few of the songs I really liked, and the others were “meh” for me. She does have a lovely singing voice when she chooses to use it. Anyway, it is three stars for me.

Tbh this rly wasn’t for me. I don’t rly like pop music and this definitely resembled Disney musical music. BUT I do have to say the music is not bad but just not my cup of tea. There were some really good highlights on this like Faster and Suite III Overture. But some really low lows. I hate to say it but it is a sub 5 but not by a lot so I’m going to give it a 4.5/10 2.2/5

If R&B, funk and dance sat down and watched Disney Fantasia and decided to make music together.

Not my cup of melted ice

The story behind this album sounded cool, but some of the songs were trying to be more.. futuristic and it didn't seem to compliment the rest of the songs

Cold wars = 5* Tightrope = 4* There were some other good son but I felt the album was too experimental and had too much filler, so it really dragged and there were a lot of "songs" that just shouldn't have been there. I think this artist has the potential for a 5* album though

Really cool

This thing vibes. A lot. It has feeling, good songs, it's elegant. Reminds me of a mixture of Sade and Beyoncé. Very positive surprise.

Wow. She pulled off 68 minutes and it never missed a note IMO. This is absolutely one that needs to be heard.

Another angle on the idea of a concept album. Not bad and quite well executed. It's a bit too long for my taste. You can hear all the different influences she had incorporated deliberately in a way that one can spot them. But that's about it. There is nothing that triggers me to revisit this.

Quite liked it, went on a bit too long though

very high concept but not that listenable in terms of how good the music is. its ok but definetly overrated. 6/10 Favourite: Locked Inside Least Favourite: Wondaland

This album is a very good album. It's creative, well-produced, and impressively executed from start to finish. It’s dynamic and consistently listenable, with a clear artistic vision behind it. That said, it’s just not really my style of music.

Surprised by how much I liked this. First few songs drift into one another seamlessly, a bit long but a good album

I didnt love all the songs but acknowledge its an amazing achievement of an album

shitty album name and art lets a really interesting and fun album down. Dance or die and the tightrope are great tracks. first half is really strong. its really eclectic. mushroom and roses is an awesome epic tune. make the bus is great aswell. its really fun. not perfect and abit long, some songs feel a little bit like filler. enjoyed though

This album had all of the Janelle Monáe songs I know on it

I can appreciate the feat of making this album. It just doesn’t hook me.

I listened to this years ago and it really didn't click for me then. But, I listened to it in full today and I was really impressed. There are so many styles that she has done so very well. This album is dense, there's a lot to unpack here. Will definitely listen again.

Been a while since I gave this a spin. I remember there was a lot of buzz, folks thought she was the next big thing. Lots of good tunes, we don't do this enough.

There are some some really powerful tracks here that show a diversity of influences and there are some self-indulgent tracks on the deluxe version.

Torture chamber music.

Futuristic sounds fusing Afro beats, Hip hop, jazz, classical, big band, dance and R&b in a Theatrical/futuristic style. An audiophile’s treasure trove of sounds. The lyrics bring love, feminism, self identity and expression. Sounds like Barry Manilow , Beyoncé, OutKast, prince, Michael Jackson. Songs are good for workouts!

Oh man, where do I begin, besides that I really wish I'd heard this in the 00s. Bands like Sophe Lux and Dresden Dolls always struck me as "almost there," and not until today did I realize that THIS is what I'd been looking for. Five stars, easily. Also, I'm glad I listened to the EP first... I sought that out before listening to the album.

oh this is ART absolutely love janelle monáe anyway but this is such a fantastic display of her talent. i think it takes more than one listen to fully appreciate it but it absolutely deserves the focus time

Like her voice. I enjoyed this album

I really appreciate the cohesiveness of the album and how it samples many genres. She has an incredible voice. I could see her doing Disney soundtracks. Clearly an entertainer. Not sure anything stood out I got hooked on but all above average for an hour long album.

Wow... energetic, frenetic, eglectic, extremely diverse stylewise, great production, great voice, great bass, overall great vibes... This was fun, I loved it...

This was actually good to listen too, added it to my liked album

Kivannäkönen tyttö kannessa. Lauloikin ihan kivasti

Välillä ihan ok mutta välillä taas ei ⭐️⭐️

Kivaa taustamusiikkia.

did not connect with this at all for some reason :(

This album slaps so damn hard. Oh my God. What even is it? Pop, R&B, rap, EDM, jazz, rock, metal, soul, classical? Answer: YES. It's like Janelle listened to all of music history and said "hold my beer". Where has this been all my life. Genius. 6/5.

Love her!

1. Suite II Overture - N/A Interludes/Overtures will not be rated. 2. Dance or Die (feat. Saul Williams) - 6 It's not a bad song but it's just not the type of pop or music I'm big into. Very hard to follow the lyrics in this track because of the auto tune effect on it. Guitar solo in the bridge in unbelievable though. 3. Faster - 6 Catchy song. The tempo and beat are awesome on this track. Vocals in the verses are very very enjoyable but the choruses leave a bit to be desired. The middle part of the song is nowhere near as enjoyable as the first half and ending of the track.. "I'm shaking like a Skittle" is such an awful lyric too. 4. Locked Inside - 7 The sound is like that of Jesse J/Pixie Lott. It's not bad and there's parts of the vocals that are really enjoyable. Sounds like it should be on a summer vibes album or a DOAX soundtrack. Much like other tracks however, there are too many tone/tempo/beat changes. It becomes hard to understand whether you're on the same track or have moved onto the next one as the album contains seamless transitions. 5. Sir Greendown - 5 It's an okay song. The quality of the sound of the vocals is great but the actual wording of the vocals is a bit average. Song sounds exactly as much. 6. Cold War - 5 The tone/tempo change in between the middle of the versus ruin the enjoyment of the experience after what is an amazing chorus. Guitar solo at the bridge is okay. 7. Tightrope [Big Boi Vocal Edit] (feat. Big Boi) - 6 Tempo, beat, and instrumentally this song is absolutely brilliant. Lyrically it has strengths and weaknesses that balance each other out to find somewhere in the median. Decent track. Bridge in particular is pretty bad over all. 8. Neon Gumpo - 1 Pointless track. 9. Oh, Maker - 4 Another decent track. Nothing vocally or instrumentally fantastic about it. It's of a different tone from the first eight tracks of the album. When you think the track ends at first it doesn't, spawning instead a pointless instrumental section that's completely out of place on the track. 10. Come Alive (War of the Roses) - 5 Great track until the screeching, way too high octave signing at the back of the second chorus, into the bridge, and leading into the outro. Drums and guitar are amazing on this track and it's instrumentally one of the best on the album so far. 11. Mushrooms & Roses - 1 The entire sound of the track is unpleasant. The vocals are given an unnecessary reverb effect that drowns them out entirely. The guitar solo is nice but suffers from the same effect, essentially swallowing the song in a puddle of incomprehensible noise. 12. Suite III Overture - N/A 13. Neon Valley Street - 3 The chorus is way too repetitive and the verses have the terrible reverb effect on them, not not as bad and pronounced as in Mushrooms & Roses. Guitar solo in the bridge to outro is absolutely incredible however. Brilliant sound to end the track on but you have to struggle to get there. 14. Make the Bus (feat. Kevin Barnes & Of Montreal) - 1 Lyrically it's not a good track. The sound of the vocals with the effects on them is undesirable. Instrumentally the track is all over the place as well. The track is a complete tone change. It's Ke$ha like in its construction. That's not a compliment. 15. Wondaland - 4 Vocally it's unpleasant it's unpleasant in the verses. The structure of the song between chorus and verse and back is ok. The chorus is very catchy though and that's the most enjoyable part of the song. 16. 57821 (feat. Deep Cotton) - 3 It's just not my style of music. It's a well written track, a very well written track at that. This one just comes down to it being not the sound and style of music I enjoy. 17. Say You'll Go - 5 Second half of the song is brilliant but the first half is hit and miss. Piano in the second part is very very enjoyable. 18. BaBopByeYa - 6 The opening 2 and a half minutes are outstanding and if the album contained more of that, it would have been rated better. The tone change is a bit of a break of what has otherwise been a phenomenal sound. It thankfully doesn't ruin anything unlike in previous tracks and helps build and elevate the sound, particularly the vocals. This is until the track fades into the second half of the song and another tone change which isn't as enjoyable as the boisterous vocals and jazzy undertones in the first half of the track. They eventually make their return, but you're long waiting for the track to end by this point. Average Rating: 4.25 Adjusted to a 5-Point Scale: 2.22 Rounded Down: 2 Stars

Ok

74/1001. Before listening I had no idea what this was. After listening I have no idea what this was.

Meh

This album falls into the category of I appreciate the artistry, I'm glad I listened to it, and I probably won't again.

Science Fiction is always appealing to me. And as this album is a science fiction themed concept album, its appeal elevated despite being an Contemporary R&B album, in which the genre is something that i really dislike. maybe i should use my sci-fi judging eye and my music judging ear to rate this lol. The overture quickly bought us into the atmosphere of a old time sci-fi movie happening in real time: orchestra tuning, applause, while it unleashes fullthrottle into a classical styled piece. and the genre hopping! no, the genre hopping is so awesome that i can do nothing but to admire it. and how the first three songs flow into each other is just so awesome, without looking at the tracklist i just honestly don't have any idea about it switching tracks. such a interlinked album i mean it is as conclusive as a science fiction plot. and it does what many SFs needs to do: to be both conherent per plot (even the fade out seems not weird as well although some seems a bit weird), switch between high-energy, tense moments and calmer parts and aged like wine. when i say age like wine i mean the social commentary in the lyrics. i don't like political stuff but if you sugarcoat it it is just so sweer and fine and appealing to me like many SF writers have done and continues to do. no wonder someone compare this with sgt.pepper. they all hope between genres (although peppers is still a bit inconherent), influenced musicians to come, have a concept (of course!) and instantly become a classic. instant 5. 5/5

I felt like this album couldn’t decide what it wanted to be and suffered dearly for it.

Not a bad album, cool blend of classical music but a lot of the songs lack structure, but Janelle Monae is still a great artist.

Exceptional album. Incredible musicianship, vocal performance, orchestration, the whole package. I would put Janelle Monáe up against any of the other great performers of the 20th and 21st-century, any day.

Come Alive(war of the roses) is quite good. I am quite impressed at the range of genres shown here.

Pretty cool

2.3 I feel this list, now I'm approaching the end, has made me a lot more open to music I would absolutely have been extremely dismissive of at the end. I've enjoyed SZA's appearance, Solange's, even Christina Aguilera. So I went into this with an open mind. It failed to impress however, the constant careering between genre to genre didn't really work in my opinion, sometimes it leaned into it to heavily that it just sounded unauthentic. The terrible Bowie clone in Make the Bus a particular low point. Too try hard. Beats for the most part were uninspiring, even the vocals which are the usually the one good thing about similar albums that miss the mark were lacklustre here. Disappointing.

Hands down the best album I heard so far - just catapulted to one of my favorite albums ever! Her voice is amazingly eclectic and diverse, yet her album is somehow cohesively thematic. I need to listen to more Janelle Monáe! Tracks to Track: Cold War, Tightrope, BaBopByeYa

The ArchAndroid is absolutely incredible. I've no idea how this passed me by as it's one of the most acclaimed albums of the last decade, but the first listen was a bit of a revelation. The variety (rooted in soul but has full on classical, psychedelia, proggy shit, the lot), the instrumental and vocal performances, the song writing, the structure of the album is all top rate. Was honestly tempted give it a 5 but I think I need to listen to it some more first. Would definitely be getting a 9.

Argh

the name made it sound like it was gonna be another one of those mid electronic albums but no this was amazing

This is a really well made, really enjoyable album. It feels like Janelle has put so much thought into every track, getting stuck in in the studio. It's one of the few 1001 albums that I have instantly wanted to reply

Definitely of its time, it has a very 2010s sound to it. Suite three is overall more enjoyable than suite two.

I wish I could inject this album into my blood stream. So much passion,funk, love and soul pumped into every track. She's such a criminally underrated artist.

Well, I didn't know the girl from Glass Onion made music.

This is an album I haven't heard before. First impressions are that it genuinely may be one of the best pop albums of the 21st century. Did I just miss the buzz, or did this deserve way more attention when it was new?

Wow! I was instantly fascinated by the classical orchestration in the opening track, and then equal parts captivated and impressed by the rest of the album. I knew I had heard Monáe's name before and it wasn't until I read more about her that I realized it's as an actress from the movie "Hidden Figures," but I don't know that I was aware that she was a singer as well. This entire album was so much fun with its poppy, experimental vibes and its concept album feel. "War of the Roses" sounds like a track ready for the Broadway stage and "Wondaland" and its poppy, upbeat self sounds like something Katy Perry or Janet Jackson, or a contemporary could easily have recorded. "57821" features wickedly gorgeous layered harmonies and reminds me of a 60s folk group. "Say You'll Go" has moments where she's channeling a lounge singer in all the best ways, ramping up into something akin to a movie score. Monáe's range of styles is quite different throughout the whole album, but somehow it all works together and I am so thankful to have found this because it is going to be added to my library for future frequent listens. What a great find! Fans of big voices like Janet Jackson, Adele, Diana Ross, or Whitney Houston, will no doubt enjoy this.

Good

Me gusto mucho. Descubri una artista nueva en la que investigar mas. Grandisima voz y fuerza en un disco con muchisimas mezclas y fusiones de jazz, rock y ritmanblues, por tratar de definirlo de alguna manera. Disco con mucha fuerza 💪🏼

OK

Busy to

Great voice. She sings several different styles from jazz to R&B to classical to pop to contemporary....

My first thoughts were that this was a Janet Jackson album, but the decade was all wrong somehow. Turns out it was something far more interesting, maybe even a 5 star album.

Super

Good stuff talented

Loved the start of this album with a beautifully orchestrated piece into fast paced lyrics that immediately grabbed my attention and held it as the first couple of songs blended into the next ,which created a really cohesive experience.

Det är nåt med hennes musik som får mig att känna att allt är såpass genomtänkt och inspirerat att jag bara kan luta mig tillbaka och veta att det jag hör kommer vara bra. Och det är det. Hon är en av dom bästa artisterna jag hittat på senare år, och detta album är en stor anledning till det!

Rätt coolt!

Enjoyable and offbeat

Not the vibe I was looking for

This album could easily have been 2 complete albums, and I think it might have been better for it. Suite II Overture -> Mushrooms & Roses was really good. Suite III Overture -> BaBopByeYa was not as solid, but that could have just been listening fatigue. That said I really like the concept of the concept album. Cyberpunk r&b/hiphop is definitely not what I was expecting.

I felt like this album dragged on a bit. There were some cool songs and sections but the length of it was a bit much. Although the album as a whole seemed a bit scattered to me, there did seem to be a bit of a theme throughout which I appreciated. It was an interesting listening experience but I don’t think I’ll ever return to any of these songs.

New artist for me and another new favorite

3,5

It’s well written and well produced, and there are actually a selection of pretty good songs on here. It’s much more interesting and fun compared to other artists in the same category

It can be a lot at times but when it all comes together it’s something to behold.

Album 835 of 1089 Janelle Monáe -The ArchAndroid (2010) Rating : 3 / 5 This one really caught me off guard—in the best way. I went in expecting some straightforward hip-hop, but what I got was a genre-hopping journey with touches of soul, funk, pop, even orchestral flourishes. The production is wild (in a good way), and the variety keeps things moving without feeling all over the place. Hard to pin this one into a single category, and that’s part of the charm. Always nice to stumble onto an album that completely surprises you.

Variadito i qualitat però no és massa es meu rollo. Te algun tema xulo. Referències funk, groove, clàssica, hip hop i fins i tot dnb.

Honestly was pretty blown away by this one. This album has it all! Soul, pop, hip hop, funk, rock, jazz, etc. Its also got some terrific features such as Big Boi and Of Montreal. There's just so much going on here that I will definitely be returning to! Favorite track: Cold War

refreshingly different. Claire de lune samples

I do appreciate how stylish, imaginative and well produced it is. Yet, I can't name a song on Archaandroid that grabbed my attention, or made me feel anything beyond intellectual approval. Another album that would be great as soundtrack or background music on a venue, but not as charged and encompassing as I prefer it to be.

Did I just listen to a musical.

Loved the variations from classical, instrumental, synth, hip hop, rap, jazz, pop, and electronic. All around great listen. Janelle is a master storyteller throughout each song. This album is going in my rotation.

Pretty cool mix of sounds, funk, classic, hip-hop 7/10

some good songs but too poppy

Ok quite random album. on 9th song so far, its maybe too much in my opinion. its like a lot of different genres or vibes mixing, so its not that consistent. other than that its interesting, first song was really cool. 10th song - wow for the singing. I like the Wonderland song. 57821 is so nice, loved it.

What did I just listen to?? Fused soul,funk,swing… hip hop? Each song was different. Wasn’t sure what to expect. But was pleasantly impressed

Favorites: Faster, Cold War, Tightrope Monae at their peak, and while they continue to be a strong force in music today (yes, I liked The Age of Pleasure), it's always fun to go back to The ArchAndroid and admire the work that went into making such a cohesive concept record.

8.5/10 very interesting

Never been a fan, but this album is iconic

I really wanted to love this album, but I don't fully connect with it. The songs are interesting and I like the transitions but some of these songs are almost painfully of their time. I think I'd be more into this if I discovered it in '10/11. 3.5/5

I appreciate the eclectic nature of this album—something for everyone. I probably wouldn't listen again, though, as the tunes weren't necessarily memorable to me.

4.5/5 seriously impressive album, every track sounds fresh and janelle's performance blows me away. if you told me this released this year i would believe you Fav tracks: Dance or Die, Faster, Cold War, Tightrope, Neon Valley Street

Extremely wide range of noises and styles. A few standout bangers but strong throughout!

I'm not sure what I listened to, twice. Absolutely ambitious, sometimes interesting ,sometimes beautiful. A little too poppy for me overall, but respect.

Will rate later… for now, will give it 3* as it wasn’t as bad as I thought it was going to be...

Ambious and skillfully executed and of course Monae is a really good singer. Still, I didn't feel connected to the music. Maybe the songs aren't good enough or maybe it's the overproduction that is killing the spirit of the performances. I really liked the orcestral pieces, though. I appreciate the talent, but I don't think that I'm going to listen to this album another time.

orket ikke

I'd listen to it again

Such an entrance. Ambitious, diverse and beautiful. Though could have maybe done with some tightening up.

Yup pretty grand this and considering it’s a debut album even more impressive. I knew and always loved the single Tightrope (shadows of OutKast) but a deep dive into this album revealed a massive mix of different genres which really surprised and pleased me.

Shut up and take my Monae. My favourite discovery this year yet. Folk, soul, rock, psychedelic rock, hip hop, R&B. All beautifully crafted in one brilliant album. Totally surprised, totally Wowed!

Kinda spaced out on this one. All over the place, not consistent.

Decent variety between songs. Not my thing, but I appreciate the talent.

Nice clear voice but the different styles throughout the album were a bit jarring for me.

Shite

Way to long. And I have come to decide that most modern R&B just isn't my thing. 1.5/5

It had some really catchy moments and a cool, unique vibe, but I ultimately found myself zoning out for large chunks of it. Tightrope was a definite highlight, though.

4/5

Talented but not for me.

Powerful, mysterious, fresh, exciting

groovy so far

Ihan hyvä, ennenkin kuultu ja tuttu artisti. Teema pysyy hyvin.

Not too bad

Holy fire

Fascineranes, gøy, sjarmeranes, sånt æ angre litt på at æ ikke hørte på da det kom, all den tid æ jo va himmelstormanes forelska i "Tightrope" (sjøl om resten av albumet ikke helt matche den energien, men det hadde nok vært for mye å forlange).

Shit va grym. Total överraskning. Såg albumet å tänkte, "åh, nej". Men det är riktigt piggt och lattjo. Ibland ett skimmer av musikal, men ack så liten. Cold war är fet! Kommer lyssna mer. Blir en enkel fyra iaf.

Otroligt kul överraskning, vilken jäkla genreöverskridande, mångfacetterad och säregen skiva. Lyssnat igenom den 4-5 gånger nu och den har växt för varje gång. Älskar Michael Jackson-influenserna. Hur kan inte Cold War ha varit en större hit? Stark fyra och skulle säkert kunna bli en femma med fler lyssningar.

holy clair de lune

First time I've listened to the whole album, although I obviously recognise some of the standout tracks. I agree, it is a bit long and there are some unnecessary fillers in there, but she does have amazing voice. Worth another listen at some point.

Let’s get weird

1.5 round up

Not really what I'm into, but it is well done.

I felt like she was through stuff at a wall to see what stuck. More stuff stuck than didn't, but as an album it felt a tad bit disjointed.

This is very diverse, basically all over the place, but in a good way. Her fantastic voice keeps it all together. Four!

For et album! Dobbel-LP-lengde som fyller ut hver side. Stemmen, arrangementene, oppbygningen! Alt leverer

Ambitious and adventurous. Applause for the amazing ArchAndroid.

Väldigt high key produktion utan att det känns överdrivet. Intressant melodiskt och ackordmässigt stundtals. Svängigt.

Pretty interesting soul stuff, cool orchestration, liked half the songs

Definitely sounds like 2000s art pop, but this album bounces around pop, r&b, and sci-fi enough that it’s hard to label. I definitely enjoyed listening to it but would have preferred something a little more grounded.

Surprised by this, don't think I'd ever heard anything by Janelle monae before, enjoyed quite a few songs, probably would not listen to the full album again but would revisit some songs

Great album. Nice to be reminded of it, I remember listening to it a fair bit when it came out. Although I’m not sure I would ever quite get to the end - I still think it’s a bit too long.

Not sure how I slept on this when it first came out, but this was great from start to finish. Going to have to dig deeper into her discography after this.

Great collection of hip-hop, r&b, soul and show tunes on this album didn't know what to expect but it was an interesting listen.

Would be a great EP

The album starts strong and ends strong but in the middle I lost interest in a lot of the songs. I'd give it a 3.5 if half points were possible.

I appreciate the ambition… but the album kinda exhausted me.

This was great, very diverse, ambitious in it's scope and had a clear concept.

I was ready to hate this. Not an artist I've ever heard of before, and I'd have judged this book by its cover and not picked it up. His album is incredible.

A bonkers compilation of tunes. Some better than others

3.8 Very interesting and technically complex.half to have four. That added to liked albums

Wow. Totally unknown name for me, didn't know what to expect and it was a really exciting listen. It is complex and eclectic, diverse, conceptual work of art. I only give it 4 out of 5 because although my brain understands how great it is, my soul doesn't fully align with the vibe.

Very cool and interesting album, definitely holds up.

not a fan.

Quirky...interesting

I liked it, but it suffers a bit by the length of the album

so great

Well, it’s fine, but I don’t remember it at all. And I’m not sure it needed well over an hour of my time.

Inexplicably opens with a gorgeous orchestral track and (for the most part) continues that creativity and spontaneity throughout the record.

Locked Inside - I love it! Wondaland - Catchy! 3.5 stars

Very pleasantly surprised. This straddled the hip-hop/pop line pretty well for me. Was close to a 4 but some of the lyrics were tough and it’s just too damn long

I enjoyed looking at the Spotify profile picture

Out of left field, I enjoyed this modern opera. I don't know that many songs stood out in particular, but the flow through different genres was well done and I think I'll come to appreciate this album more when I come back to it

I was prepared to just like this album, and I was so pleased to have fallen in love with this record. Pop and soul perfection.

FANTASTIC! Wasn’t familiar with the artist or album but was blown away. Fun, energetic, polished, incredibly well written and produced with an impressive amount of variety and pace and instruments. It’s like Outkast and Mary J. Blige got together and did a Disney soundtrack!

Absolutely loved it. It's a real novel.

I like this…original and all tracks different

Classic for me

Janelle Monae is like a funky black female Bowie. I'm here for it.

Bland elevator music

A lot of variety and really great songs

Great blend of catchy pop/r&b and some more experimental stuff. Really good.

So good! Can’t believe I wasn’t listening to her before, I’ve always heard great things.

79% Best: Dance or Die; Locked Inside; Tightrope; Come Alive (War of the Roses); Neon Valley Street Must-Hear? Almost

Such a great voice and style. Album is varied, yet cohesive. Love it.

This was good but my wife summed it up perfectly. It's good because she makes it good, but there's no individual song that you think "that's a GREAT song"

I’ve liked a few Janelle Monáe tracks off Dirty Computer, but this was my first time listening to her debut album—and honestly, it didn’t quite land for me. She’s incredibly talented and theatrical, with a strong visual style. I can appreciate the creativity conceptually, but I just didn’t connect with the music on this one as much.

I typically ignore pop music almost completely coz I detest most of it, but I distinctly remember when this dropped. I recall giving it a shot and being impressed at how experimental and unique this album was as a whole statement and concept. It is anything but boring. It's not something I have spun up again since my first few listens in 2010, but revisiting now it reaffirms that it's a super well-crafted, creative, and considered album. Although it's not typically my preferred style or genre, it's notwithstanding impossible to ignore. Like I said, I mostly hate and consequently write off most pop music due to its banal sameness, but this is such a singular voice of overwhelming creativity, I gotta give Monáe big props for such a unique debut. And "Cold War" is still a fucking total banger, 15 years later; a sort of spiritual sibling to Outkast's "Bombs Over Baghdad". This is an example of a record that I cannot help but recognize has 5-star quality, even though it's not totally my thing.

Another very eclectic album. Quality is a little inconsistent, for example, “Oh, Maker” and “Neon Valley Street” are really great tracks from a songwriting, production and vocal perspective, but songs like “Cold War” and “Come Alive” were just exhausting listens and felt a little “commercialized” and uninspired if that makes sense. She is undeniably talented and has a great voice. Worth a listen but not my cup of tea.

Beautiful voice and a lovely, fun blend of pop and r&b. The front half and the back half of the album felt like two different albums, but maybe that was the point.

a very creative and gaudy soul/r&b album inspired from classic dance pop music and lavish afrofuturism. a brilliant symphony of sound, blending old with new. narrative-driven and substantial, this album would literally be the perfect score for a modern version of metropolis, a sound fitting for a cyber-capitalist-dystopia with golden art deco buildings that reach the stars. this album entrances you, it makes you both dance and daydream as it plays through, janelle's voice smooth like artisan butter.

Definitely lots of respect for this artist, in all the aspects of her art - acting, fashion, and her music. This sure is all over the place stylistically, but in a good way.

What an electric record, Monae leaning into what could have been the most obnoxious Prince/theatre kid idiosyncrasies and somehow creating a singular pop epic. The first act is particularly stunning, a string of perfect songs running into one another. Even the stuff that doesn't work as well is such a bold swing — none moreso than the Of Montreal song that appears 50 minutes into the record — that you have to respect it. The first seconds of Cold War are as good as pop songwriting has been this century, the urgency of Outkast's B.O.B. maintained but its paranoia morphed into jubilation. Oh, Maker.

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.

Wasn’t much of my vibe, if I was in a different mood I think I’d enjoy it more

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

"Dad, can we get some Beyoncé?" "We have Beyoncé at home!" The Beyoncé at home

I had never heard of this artist or really this style of music before. I really dug this album! Monae's musical style draws from funk, soul, electronica, jazz, hip hop, new wave, synth pop... It sounded a bit chaotic at first, but as the album settled in the sound became more composed and Monae's soaring vocals carried the whole thing throughout. Definitely deserves another listen.

Had some crazy range of different styles, and all of them slap

-waow very cool, requires another listen and soon but i’m very impressed by the versatility Janelle showed as a singer and artist just in this very first concept album -i’ll have some of these tracks stuck in my head for days, i really liked most of the features too. glad i finally got to listen to this -Favorites are Dance or Die, Tightrope, and Say You’ll Go

I remember when this came out and I never really got into outside of the song Oh Maker. But coming back to it now, it's better and has more range. I wrote it off as an R&B album but it's more than just that.

I was optimistic going into this one as it’s an album I’ve heard great things about that I’ve no experience hearing. I was pretty disappointed, I found most of this really boring despite all the sounds that seem to be desperately trying to make it interesting. I also think her vocals are really boring for the majority of this record it’s really monotone(?) and boring sounding. All that being said I liked the two overtures and “Neon Valley Street” but the rest of the record was just boring.

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.

I've never really given Janelle's work a shot until now. I knew her as an actor, and as a celebrity who wore eccentric outfits. She was good in Knives out 2 and Moonlight. I knew she was a musician. I remember the hype around her work in the 2010s. But none of that matters right now. The important question is: is it any good? And my answer: not really... but i respect what she's going for. This album is massive. Very ambitious. I think it's a concept album? It's quite impressive. I just... don't really... enjoy it? It's not bad... it just feels sorta sterile? And it's way too long. I got bored. Out of 18 tracks, only one or two piqued my interest. I didn't have time to listen more than once. Perhaps with more listening it might make more of an impact? It definitely wasn't a very immediate album. Things that did stick with me... The lyrics are a bit cheesy? They have a save the world, late career Michael Jackson vibe which didn't really work for me. I like the orchestral interludes. There was a lot of variety in the track list, which was nice... I guess. I recognized Tightrope. I think I heard it in an advertisement years ago or maybe a film. It was solid. I do love Big Boi. The instrumental sounded a bit like that shitty Happy song by Pharrell... but Janelle does a better job with it. Oh, Maker was probably my favourite song on the track. I dig the vocals at the beginning. It sounds expensive. And it definitely has a film score vibe on certain tracks... in a bad way. The closing track fits this to a T. Some cool horns and guitar work throughout the album.

Not for me.

Janelle Monáe’s The ArchAndroid is an ambitious, genre-blending journey where funk, sci-fi, and time travel apparently got very drunk together and made an album. It dazzles with visionary sound, operatic ambition, and enough costume changes to bankrupt a Broadway show. It’s like Prince and Fritz Lang co-hosted a party in space. Four out of five stars—because even androids need room to upgrade.

She’s always interesting if nothing else

Quite enjoyed this

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.

This album has a bit of everything! I appreciate a musician who is willing to flex a bunch of different muscles. Janelle Monáe takes you from pop/hiphop, to jazz, to sci-fi, to what feels like music from the Wiz? It was a lot to take in, but by the time the last song finished playing, this album exceeded my expectations.

What an album! I really like how competently made it felt. Excellent instrumentals and vocal work! This might not have the pop-iest songs, but it really came together as a whole. I'm up in the air for 'Cold War' and 'Oh, Maker' being my fave.

I don’t know what I expected when I saw this generate, but it wasn’t this. What a thrill of an experience! I admit I wasn’t looking forward to listening to this, but damn, this is some good shit. Janelle Monae is a name I’d heard, but never listened to her music, kinda lumping her in with every other disposable pop artist. I was definitely wrong.

...What am I listening to. Is this a full orchestra at Carnegie Hall? Is this the hottest new dj cranking up an interplanetary set from a high-above sparkling silver podium? Weirdly I'm mostly blown away by the percussive elements. Drums aside, Monae paints the beat picture with their full hand, accenting the driving basslines with manual and electronic beat additions. This is so addictive, you keep waiting for the energy to cool down and it just doesn't! Even downtempo songs like Sir Greendown envelop the listener in a shifting, permeable atmosphere, pierced only by Monae's dreamy spell singing. The next thing that I notice strongly on this album is her falsetto yell/cry from the dark cabaret tune Come Alive. Try listening to that back to back with Sir Greendown. and then try dipping quickly into the Diablo Swing Orchestra. Monae literally does it better than that entire group. This artist is obviously non-binary cause they really cannot pick a single genre to stick to. call me queer because it looks hot on them.

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

I was surprised, but excited to see this one come up. I love this album. It’s been awhile since I listened to it, but it’s so damn good. It’s got so many influences. I know it’s a concept album, but it’s so cinematic, in a good way

Awesome. Tons of variation. This is what I come for

Party classical and catchy tunes. Very special.

Mid. 2/5.

A great mix of R&B, Hip Hop and Pop that a debut album was capable of be. This album gathers Suite 2 and 3 of her initial work, but the Suite 1 is on the EP, so is a listen recommended for context.

Love the classical influences, I feel like I should have known about this artist already

Fabtastic

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?)

This album really surprised me, some of the songs almost has a Japanese jazz kinda vibe to it. Also love the way she incorporates classical music. Don't know I if it quite deserves 4 stars though. Maybe I'm just stoked about it not being punk or rock and actually something a bit more original.

Not my usual sound, but good album

Big shoutout to the KC native Janelle Monae. This album is incredibly unique and was well worth a listen. It was an interesting blend of genres that I mostly enjoyed. At some points it felt like I was listening to a play soundtrack, while other times just a nice contemporary mix of soul/R&B. I'm not sure I'd listen to it again, which is a must for all my 5 star rated albums, but good stuff nonetheless.

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

not really my thing but can't point out why maybe I should keep a more open mind she is great on that one song with paolo nutini tho (fashion)

c:neon valley street

i've heard this before in the past (partially). i'm no stranger to her music, though i've admittedly neglected listening to her discography in full Suite II Overture - no rating Dance or Die - 5/5 Faster - 5/5 Locked Inside - 5/5 Sir Greendown - 4/5 Cold War - 5/5 Tightrope - 5/5 Neon Gumbo - no rating Oh, Maker - 4/5 Come Alive (War of the Roses) - 5/5 Mushrooms & Roses - 5/5 Suite III Overture - no rating Neon Valley Street - 4/5 Make the Bus - 3/5 (the guest artists annoy me i'm afraid) Wondaland - 5/5 57821 - 4/5 Say You'll Go - 4/5 BaBopByeYa - 3/5 (beautiful, just really long) Average score: 4.4/5 (rounding up for overall quality) this is a hell of a debut album. banger after banger, front to back. i'm not surprised though, Janelle is talented performer, and i'd even argue she gives other female artists a run for their money loved the production. the transition between the first few tracks or so is truly seamless. i'll be so caught up vibing with one that i won't even realize that i'm already like 20 seconds into the next. my personal favs were Wondaland, Mushrooms & Roses, Faster, and Cold War if this is the raw energy and talent she's bringing on her first album ever, i'd better fucking brace myself for when i listen to the rest of her albums.

yllättävän kiva ja monipuolinen

This is already a 5/5. 10/5. This is one of my favourite albums ever. I have like 4 of these on rotation anyway.

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 have listened to this album at least 5 times and I guess I just don’t get it. It has some great elements of soul and funk but the concept story is not for me and nothing here seems overly new or exciting. It’s a female Bruno Mars. Why is this album on the list? I have no idea. I did enjoy certain songs but this album isn’t for me. Favorites include “Tightrope”, and “Come Alive (War of the Roses)”

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.

I was introduced to this album shortly after it came out, when my coworker found out I am a fan of German Expressionism Silent Films, Progressive Rock, and Concept Albums in general. She said this album was definitely for me. Even though the album is only inspired by the 1927 Fritz Lang film Metropolis, and not actually based the picture, it's the fact that this is Monae's debut album, and the audacity to come out the gate with a concept story, is pretty bold and amazing in my book. The Lang Silent Film, is one of my all time favorite movies, but the concept of the two stories are vastly different, yet share some of the same themes. For this listen, I decided to also include Janelle's EP Metropolis, which is the first suite of the entire series. As I am listening, I also have the Fritz Lang film playing in the background (just for a fun Pink Floyd/Wizard of OZ vibe). But enough geeking out, let's talk about Archandroid. In my opinion what makes a great concept album, no matter what genre of music, is that it plays out as one piece or in Suites. This album starts with Suite II and just takes off from there. By the time we get to four songs in you don't even realize that you have listened to three different tracks, as the transitions are seamless. The songs do eventually start to feel individualized as we work our way deeper into the album, but it doesn't take away from the momentum and flow of this album. I was very happy to see this album pop up today, as it's been over 10 years since I have listened to it, and now I am already shopping around to see who has it on vinyl. Fun album, great concept, and definitely belongs on this list. Favorites: Dance or Die, Faster, Come Alive (War of the Roses), Neon Valley Street, and Wondaland.

Futuristic and classic

Meh.

Really liked this album, I love how varied it is although it sometimes felt a little too busy. Fav song: BaBopByeYa - had a few picked out as favourites but I think this one really shows the variety of the album as it changes multiple times throughout the song. Least fav: Neon Gumbo - is this backwards? I think it’s backwards. I love that she’s experimenting but it just doesn’t do it for me (although I like the thunder at the end)

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

This album is better than a few albums I gave 4 stars. But It's not quite a 5. There is a few tracks that could be removed completely. It's very interesting and certainly worth a listen.

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.

masterful album. extremely ambitious matching a complex storyline, frequent genre and style switch ups (Make the Bus is an of Montreal song pretty much (speaking of which, no Hissing Fauna on the list? lame)), and luxurious instrumentation. one of the best ones in the list for sure. an album that continues to show off new layers on each listen. half the songs are candidates for best on the album too. deserves to be one of the 1001? very much yes. i like this more than Dirty Computer but i'm glad the more whimsical one made it on. but ideally both would /shrug

Operatic! Janelle!!! So much better than the way i was introduced to her thru singles. Has that atlanta spirit, feels very 2010 but in a well aged way. FOUR!

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.

I guess it is a concept album, but it feels like a soundtrack to a movie I would love to see. Janelle Monae is an extraordinary talent.

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

At the first song I thought it would be classical music, but that was not the case. Very nice music to listen to with songs that flow seamlessly into each other.

Didn’t hate it

This album came to me in 2014 and put my on my first ever attempt at running. I associate it with Newcastle, misty mornings, and being out of breath but peaceful.

Unique sound and voice. She’s trying to be interesting and different, and I agree. A bit over the top with some songs

Incredible flow between songs, multiple genres covered and blended together seamlessly. Catchy af. Slightly disappointed with the of Montreal collab, would have sounded a million times more at home on an of Montreal album. Favourites - Dance or Die, Cold War, Oh Maker, Locked Inside Least Favourites - Make the Bus

This is really good, very eclectic and catchy

Listened to the tour version which was too long

Shockingly good

Ikke min greie. For mye hopping hit og dit. Blir litt stress

Jeg synes det er bittelitt anmasende.

Langt dårligere enn "debutplata".

I feel like I've heard of Janelle but never listened to her. This isn't the style of music I normally listen to, but this is pretty strong. Great vocals and a good groove throughout. Glad to have listened to it.

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

Maybe some good music? Wouldn’t recommend to someone

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.

The first half of the album is far away from music I get enjoyment from, but then the second half (specifically starting from Mushrooms & Roses) had more songs I was into

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

Never heard of Janelle Monáe before, but was very impressed. Fantastic voice, great lyrics, song really good songs.

it's very long and in parts annoying but also so ambitious and creative

A little too experimental and ambient than what I was expecting

Really interesting album. Great jazz influences. Faster, Locked Inside, Cold War, and Come Alive were stand out songs.

strange

It was better than i expected.

i love any album that starts with the sounds of an orchestra being tuned and the chatter of a symphony hall. the archandroid comes in promising vibes and it delivers. there are some moments that strain or feel a bit bloated, but at it's best (neon valley street) it feels like listening to lauren hill transported to the future and that's an excellent best.

Very good IMO

This is a coldddd war, you better know what you're fighting for. I like a handful of tracks enough to bump this rating up.

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. ***

Not for me

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)?

Oh now THIS is a discovery. I name I have heard over and over again and somehow just not gotten round to. I love everything about this, high concept, high orchestration, high everything. Queen shit.

La intro, que tienen los raperos con las intros? Dance or die mother is mothering COMO ENLAZA CON FASTER En uno de los temas samplea bateria de rock with you, muy buen disco

Dachte es kämen banger

I was only familiar with her acting but this album has some nice grooves. Top half of the album is certified. I was excited to see the of Montreal collab but it's unfortunately disappointing. It's all Kevin Barnes and no Janelle Monae.

A timeless classic that I will love for all time!

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

A powerhouse. So many varying styles and genres, but all working together with such powerful energy. Banger.

Enjoyed. Would listen again. Surprised by some 60’s vibes. Stand out track Come Alive.