Reviews (page 3 of 8)
I am a part of a Rhythm Nation.
I get it. It's really good, especially for 1989. I don't love how many interludes there are, but those are easily skipped. Apparently, it was a massive commercial success that produced seven top-five singles on the Billboard Hot 100, and is the only album in history to have number-one hits in three different calendar years (1989–1991). I always associated Janet Jackson with cousin Mary, which lets me sit in comfortable, warm memories.
Some of these definitely send me back to my youth.
Janet Jackson can write a HOOK! Also, I didn't know she wrote such meaningful songs with powerful messages! I really enjoyed this album more than I thought I would! This was solid! Her vocals are strong!!! Some of these songs are LONGGGG tho. Also, I hate interludes 99.999% of the time. "Black Cat" was AMAZING! That solo too!!! Liked Songs: "Rhythm Nation" , State Of The World" , "Miss You Much" , "Love Will Never Do (Without You)" , "Livin' In A World (They Didn't Make)" , "Escapade" , "Black Cat"
Thoroughly enjoyed this one. The political messages were still relevant to our times.
Great album, loved all the songs and ill def check out some more Janet Jackson after this
"Get the point? Good. Let's dance." Cannot fathom why there's so many negative reviews for this record. Janet Jackson is a queen and this record goes unreasonably hard. Great lyrics paired with incredibly groovy instrumentals and thoughtful sequencing. This has gotta be considered a classic, man. "Black Cat" is 100% the standout track on here for me. What the hell is a hard rock song doing here and why is it so damn good?? It doesn't even feel out of place on the record which I think is the most impressive part. I will say that I generally prefer the harder-hitting tracks in comparison to the softer cuts, but I can't say that I particularly *dislike* them. Amazing overall.
Kinda good I liked it more than expected
Really enjoyed this one when it was new, and again now. A couple tracks feel like filler, but the majority are really fun.
Ese año publicaba Madonna Like a virgin, Lenny Kravitz su debut y Queen Latifah, Neneh Cherry, Jungle Brothers o De la Soul eran un soplo de aire fresco que apuntaba a una nueva e ilusionante década. Sin embargo la reina por todos los méritos era Janet con esta monumental obra. Una síntesis de Prince (se nota la mano de los productores y el sonido que ella quería para su disco) y Michael Jackson, pero en mujer. Entre Madonna-Prince-Jacko estaba esta figura que recogía lo mejor de los 3 y suponía un modelo para empoderar a la mujer en todos los aspectos: estético, musical, audivisual, lírico y de gestión del éxito. Solo Madonna aguantó el envite, aunque le costó varios años (muchos), los otros dos no supieron entender los nuevos tiempos. Antecedente claro de todo lo que vino después desde Britney hasta Beyoncé, pasando por Laurynn Hill, Charlie XCX, Jamie Lidell, Martika, Rosalía y todo lo que se ponga por delante. No es Control, su gigantesco paso adelante apenas 3 años antes. Es mucho mejor. Hay de todo, y con mucha coherencia. Grande? Enorme.
Large variety of songs here, enjoyed it.
3.5
She had to put the interludes in. The fragile human mind could not handle this many hits in a row without some kind of buffer. This may be the ultimate culmination of new jack swing, which was such a cool genre with such a unique and fun sound. I very much enjoyed this album by an artist who I am required to refer to as Ms. Jackson. Cause I’m nasty.
Rating: 7.5/10 It sounds so 80s that it is almost cliche and corny, but damn is this enjoyable. A nice combination of slower ballads that are catchy and upbeat songs that slap.
Good, very 80s/confusion about what the 90s are gonna be-coded
Loved this back in the day. Great to revisit. Energy!
Too long. But got into it.
I was happily surprised by this. I went in assuming I was going to hate it. Some catchy tunes - not necessarily my jam but pleasant enough. I would give it a 3 just based on the songs but the production earns it another star.
I think this album is really well done for what it was in its own time and place. There are a bunch of hits on here and deservingly so. I would give it a five for the song Alright all by itself. That said I think it’s probably a four overall.
Peak New Jack Swing. Some of the "social commentary" gets a little heavy handed, but still great.
This is a killer album that I’ve never fully listened to
There's some garbage on here, but the hits are undeniably great.
It was good. Janet Jackson has a sort of timbre in her voice that is iconic.
This is my first time listening to a Janet Jackson album, so I didn't really know what to expect. It's a very solid pop album that's very of it's time. The crispy production in particular dates it - it reminds me a lot of Prince and Madonna in places. There are some great songs on here though, especially the title track, State of the World, Miss You Much, Alright, and Black Cat. I also surprisingly enjoyed Someday is Tonight, even though I usually hate those kind of sensual ballads. At times the lyrics are a bit cheesy, even though I do agree broadly with her views. But if you see it as a product of it's time it makes more sense. I think today's world is so cynical that this album wouldn't be too well received if it was released now. I can see why it was so influential at the time though, and also how it influenced Kendrick Lamar a bit on TPAB.
Good artist. Good music from the late 80’s. Proved herself in a family dominated by males. Stamped herself as a iconic female artist.
Great energy up front before settling into ballads in the back. What I hoped prince’s most recently reviewed album would be. Ahead of its time (or, at least, still relevant today) lyrically.
It was a lot of things I don't particularly like in music but somehow I loved every song. Except for ballads. This album could do without ballads.
I had fun, thanks Janet. Not sure I'll come back to much of this, but it was fun.
Very good pop album
This album feels oddly current!
When I got this album today, I screamed, "NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!" but much to my surprise I liked it & made me feel like dancing- anything that makes me feel like dancing is AT LEAST ⭐️⭐️⭐️ in my book!
89/1089 - Why the interludes? Good music.
If you are like me and extreme syncopation scratches an itch in your brain, you will love it.
Banger after banger! Is the album over produced? Sure. Are the interludes completely unnecessary? Also, yes. But is Janet's performance and the songwriting enough to make this an all-timer? Fuck yeah! Also, I'm going to need a cold shower after "Someday Is Tonight" Favorite tracks: Miss You Much, Love Will Never Do, Escapade, Black Cat
Great
Dope
The whole album has a cool and relaxing vibe. Her voice is pleasant to listen to, but it also just doesn't really excite me much.
A bit of a whirlwind this one. Flips between heavy social/political commentary and just straight love/pop ballads. I think it could've done without the last one or two songs, but still some good music here. 7/10
I really enjoyed most of this album. Politically motivated but the singles are a lot of fun. Top 3 tracks: Black Cat Miss You Much Escapade 8.5/10
Such a wonderful album. One that I've been waiting for an excuse to listen to. And I'm so glad it came. I love Janet's music. To me, Control and The Velvet Rope are absolutely great, with the latter being one of my favorite pop releases ever. This album reaches this level. It begins with incredible bangers 2, 6, 8. 16, is a song I don't enjoy much. But I love Janet's delivery on the incredible ballads here- 11, and especially the ending of 17, 18, 19... Tear jerking, huge sound. Vocals, instrumentals. Pop heaven. 4.5
Fine album.
Yeah, pretty good. I love that this album used to brake computers.
Where some albums feel very timeless, this one feels very firmly set in the early 90's. It's hyper produced and polished, so it doesn't give that warmth that you get from raw talent. This is still a great album and clearly stands the test of time, it just feels firmly planted in a specific time and place.
I prefer this album, at least in terms of albums I would listen to often, to the albums by Michael Jackson. Obviously, Rhythm Nation is not as iconic as Bad or Thriller, but this is a really good album of new jack swing. I'm surprised the song with the most plays "only" has 41 million. I would think at least one of these tracks would top 100 million. Perhaps that is just the 80's baby in me coming out with unrealistic expectations. Rhythm Nation (the song) has Sly and the Family Stone written all over it but not too much to wear they are copping an entire song. There are 8 interludes on the album and I normally don't like these because they tend to break up the song momentum. What's odd to me is there are fewer interludes on the back half of the album when the songs are a bit slower. I would think there would be fewer interludes when the music is slower. I tend to get many of these songs stuck in my head and while the backhalf is a bit slow, I think anyone who likes Michael Jackson or new jack swing should listen to this one. It's a great album.
I forgot just how great of an album this is.
Sometimes, I wonder if I was a teen in the eighties, would I have been a goth? Sometimes, I think yes. Sometimes, I hear an album like this one, and think I’d have been one of those girls in the bright crazy patterned clothes and the casual use of leg warmers. I really didn’t expect to enjoy this album as much as I did, but it’s just really fun and makes you want to dance and enjoy yourself. And call me crazy if you want, but I think enjoyment is pretty good.
Don't think I've ever listened to this all the way through since I was a kid. Holds up surprisingly well even if some of that 80s R&B production can be a sound a tad dated. Solid stuff though
Hell yeah everything about this album.
The production is very dated but otherwise really solid album with great vocals and messages
I really don't like hip hop, but this is some of my favorite hip hop music that I've listened to. Like I originally wanted to give it a 2 but I ended up thinking it was a super solid album.
4.
Most of it sounds like a product of its time, but I kinda like that. Later on it gets more timeless with some lovely ballads.
2000s vibes
probs 4
Surprised by how much I liked this album. Maybe I’m a closet JJ fan…
Well, that was a surprise. Put a smile on my face and a tap, tap shuffle into my day
Wow, this is really cool! This is another one of these cases where I obviously know who Janet Jackson is and I know her nineties hits, but never heard anything from this album. This is a great selection that runs the gamut of eighties pop, from funk to hard rock. Super cool and makes you want to dance.
I had never before heard- Ok that's a lie i have heard Janet before in the song Scream with Michael Jackson ofc, but even with her solo stuff getting more attention among music nerd circles, I haven't really gotten to check it out until now. I was the most interested in this one out of all her albums because it had industrial influences according to RYM so like, why not! And for the most part I kinda see it? The rugged and mechanical beats in this album wouldn't be too out of place if in EBM if you isolated them and put people chanting endless meaningless slogans. But anyway, this album was really enjoyable, I mean Janet sounds amazing, the instrumentals are punchy and dance-able but also not saddled by 80s production like I'd expect especially on Rhythm Nation and Miss You Much which are just so cool and really made me want to get up and dance to them. I will say though: the length is not the best, especially as the last few songs just veer into R&B ballads without much more to them just dragged the enjoyment of the album which started which such cool energy. There's also how many interludes there are in this album, almost ridiculously so but they're short enough to not be a total bother I think. All in all, pretty good!
9/10. I saw an interesting video about this album's title track which claimed that the title track causes computers, and even local computers, to crash. Interesting facts aside, this album features a lot of bops. I love its strong anti-racism message. :)
Beautiful production, vocals, and harmonies. Wonderful album.
Janet’s best known
great album, but wayyyy too many interludes....
to be lost, found in sound, of this room
3.8
Had very low expectations but this wasn’t that bad in the end. Black Cat is a banger.
i love this sound i feel like you just don’t hear music like this (at least in the mega pop sphere) anymore
A+
State of the World kind of slaps in the most 80s way. Escapade is another great single. I went in with unfairly low expectations and was swept away. While this wasn't a close listen, I really enjoyed this album for everything that it is. The songs are well-produced and shimmer with all of the trappings of the time. Instrumentals were funky and varied and the individual songwriting was really strong. Made for a fun listen a couple of times through.
similar to get rich or die tryin in the way that quite a lot of songs could be removed to make it better (not as much tho). I imagine this was highly influential for the 90s rap/pop fusion. I generally think that the first half is much better that the second. Downsides have pretty much already been said, and some songs could be longer. Favorite songs: Rhythm nation, state of the world, the knowledge. Overall around 7/10
all the haters who gave this a 2 can pound sand. This album has at least 6 bangers on it. And yes...this is 100% a product of my age when this came out and me hearing them on the radio nonstop.
I like
A classic - she rocked it.
Great.
83% Best: Rhythm Nation; State Of The World; Miss You Much; Alright; Escapade; Black Cat Must-Hear? Sure
I recently read a really good article about how totally JJ was ditched and hung out to dry after nipple-gate, and how much it derailed her career. Apart from a couple of mid-90s fairly average R&B songs, I didn't really know loads of her catalogue, but this is very good. I think I'm ready to die on the Janet is a better singer than Michael hill to be honest. And definitely a better person.
The pinnacle of disco (?)
4.25
Culturally relevant and slightly provocative for 1990. This album was the precursor to Janet genuinely taking control of her life, career, and freedom of expression. Rhythm Nation introduced a bold Janet who was strong, facing hard topics like social injustice, while at the same time embracing her sexuality and showing the world she was all grown up. Not my favorite JJ album, but it deserved the accolades received.
A totally solid album. A little too mealy mouthed in the beginning with it's social British for my taste but the grooves and hits are where it's at. Escapade was a total banger.
È lungo devo ammetterlo ma non merita meno di 4. Energetico, rinfrescante, danzante e politicamente impegnato, mi è piaciuto molto. Si sappia che non sarebbe stato un 5 nemmeno se fosse stato più corto.
I am not a fan or Janet Jackson, or at least I wasn't. This album really really surprised me. I had this idea it was going to be something from around 97, and i assumed it would be full of ballads, but it was actually mostly pop, funky pop, really bouncy and interesting. The production is great, the songs are very very well written, with catchy singalong bits, and more than anything, it's so instant. If i was to compare it to the Mariah album that i heard a few months ago, i think this is a much better, much more cohesive, more catchy, more songs. This album feels like everything in a single, with a few things in between that stitch it all together.
Quite enjoyed the one. The production is incredible and the vibes are funky.
L’habillage sonore de l’album, super cohérent, trahit son âge. Je suis quand même très attachée à l’album par nostalgie. Il faut dire aussi que le travail du rythme invoqué par la première chanson sous-tend chaque pièce, même les ballades, les rendant accrocheuses
Great memories and a fun groove
Seven #1 hits. It’s pretty much the reason it is here. It’s a competent album and after the breakthrough of Control, made her a superstar at her brother’s level. As a concept the album doesn’t hold up, but it has a solid production from Jam and Lewis that while dated is still pretty great and those hits are something else.
Not as memorable as her album "Control", but I love the effort. Strong 80s vibe and I dig the production. It starts of with a strong and relevant social commentary, but I don't think the masses wanted to hear her message or mature enough to understand it. The balance of the album is classic Janet dance club mixes.
I couldn’t imagine being in Janet Jackson’s position. Being a naturally talented and well known musician, and still managing to be overshadowed by your sibling would break any normal person down to their core. Plus, that whole accident she had at the Super Bowl Halftime Show ended up being a much bigger deal than it needed to be. It basically got her blacklisted, and was even the reason why the term “wardrobe malfunction” exists. Now granted, it is kind of hard not to be overshadowed by Michael Jackson. Because it’s fucking Michael Jackson. But I’m not going to spend this review comparing her music to his. That wouldn’t be doing her justice. I’m actually glad I get to explore the history of the Jackson family a little deeper than their biggest star. It’s a whole generation of very talented people. And Janet is no different. This is just the complete opposite direction that I would imagine her music would go in. This surprisingly turned out to be one of the most intense listens I’ve had on this list so far. At least some moments feel that way. Truthfully this is the evolution of the 80s sound, and what it developed into right at the cusp of the 90s. People began to abandon the dance stuff for something more fitting of a nightclub. Darker and more in your face. But it’s impressive how Janet and the people she worked with managed to pull that off while still maintaining a level of radio-friendliness. This album was judged on release for its pretty blatant political theming and lyricism. But it was also acclaimed for its production, and rightfully so. There is some really cool stuff going on. The opener alone is indicative of that. But there are also some really beautiful songs, like Livin' in a World and Come Back to Me, which sound closer to what Janet might be known for. I can also appreciate the theming here. I think it’s admirable that a person of her size was willing to write an album like this, even with the opposition from her label. She used her platform for something important. Janet has actually always been an icon and innovator in the contemporary spaces of late 20th century music. And I enjoyed most of this album thoroughly. Rating: 7/10
Probably 3.75 again I see the overall appeal. But not really my genre or something I would usually listen to
Listen to it more than once. Loads to get into! 4.0
I’m a part
The tonal whiplash is pretty wild. Good music though. 4/5
So I remember the late 80s and early 90s, and while Janet Jackson wasn't anything me or my friends would listen to, this album was EVERYWHERE for a while. I never listened to this album all the way through before, but I sat down and ate the whole thing today. Its not bad! Its still not my taste, but it has great range, composition, Janet has outstanding vocals, and is a pretty good album. 4/5
The final boss of 80s synth pop really picks up about halfway through when it gets more creative and varied
Wonderful
Really good vibes, ahead of its time. creative songwriting and really catchy throughout the album.
The biggest question I feel like I've had to ask myself in trying to talk about this album is "Is it dated?" That being, "Is it dated in terms of its production and genre?" and "Is it dated in terms of commentary on the real world?" Of course, my answer to both variations of that question is "Yes." This thing was released in 1989, after all; I'd be surprised if either one had aged terribly well in 2024. But let's pull in and address each one separately. I wanna start with the thing I feel like most people would take issue with: the commentary. Naturally, there's gonna be a few issues it tackles that maybe don't apply... As well today? Although, if I've learned anything from history, a depressing amount **does** carry through across centuries. But that's not actually why I think most people would have a problem with it, despite "datedness" being the thesis. Moreso, I imagine they'd take issue with the fact that Janet Jackson is a celebrity, and, as such, who the hell is she to try and talk about the problems of the "common folk?" Given the pedestal she's been placed on, can it come across as anything but fake? To be blunt, personally, I don't care. I often talk to myself about the "power of music," but it can only do so much by itself. If Janet brought attention to some issues through some sick jams, then that's a good thing. I mean, I'm not sure what else she could or is really supposed to do besides jump to the extreme of "quit music entirely and spend the entire fortune she's amassed to fix it herself." I don't believe that'd be as effective as some people would want it to be, and generally I don't think that's what most people would want her to do, really. Frankly, I'd just be happy that someone with a position like hers would be speaking about this stuff at all. And besides, if I can listen to all of her brother's socially conscious music and never get put off by "fakeness," then it's not a problem for me here, either. And let's switch over to talking about the music, and to get back on the thesis. I'm not gonna front here: this album sounds incredibly dated to the late 80's and early 90's. But, like, I'unno—is that a problem, really? This is New Jack Swing. Maybe I'm just too much of a sucker for modern throwbacks to older sounds, but to me this is just what it's supposed to sound like. And frankly, it sounds **incredible**. It's maybe—no, **definitely** the single best collection of New Jack Swing I've heard. I mean, sure, it **can** get a little tiring because of how long the album runs. (64 minutes? Oof. I kind of wonder if the original vinyl version, which edited the album down a bit to fit, runs any better, but let's stick with how we were supposed to listen to this thing.) On the whole, though, I can only think of a handful of songs from other artists that I'd classify as more definitively "New Jack Swing." I can't think of any other **albums**, that's for sure. I'm still knocking it a star for its length, but regardless, I really enjoyed my time with this album. If you're the kind of person who's bothered by datedness in music, I maybe wouldn't recommend it, but if you take it as it comes like me, it's a hell of a time. No wonder there was a point in time where Janet was bigger than Michael, oof, goodness.
Wow haven't heard this one in a long time! I used to want to live in the Rhythm Nation before I found out how difficult that would be. Escapade is a fuckin banger and gets this to a 4 despite the overproduction reverb drum machine sound.
Janet Jackson is quite the legend, and this album firmly cements why that is the case. At times heartfelt, always personal, this is an incredible album to sink your teeth into.
Not really my preferred style of music, but this is an extremely well put together album. Very bold choices and powerful messages
Somehow I've made it this far in my life without really hearing any Janet Jackson. I don't know why that is - did she really drop off the cultural radar *that* hard after the Superbowl fiasco? Regardless - this was fun in that punchy, overproduced, hypersincere 80s way. All the people complaining that it sounds dated are missing the point - that's what makes it good and compelling! A nice surprise, and a rare treat to see a woman on the list again (lol. :| )
Allt í lagi lullarablús.
I thought it was gonna be mid but it was actually really good
# Playlist track - Rhythm Nation # Notes - I expected *nothing* of this and found the album to be pretty solid! I like the beat! - There is too much filler and empty space in the album. Useless interludes that don't really add to the experience and a couple of meh tracks. - All in all, way better than I expected and definitely worth checking out!
funny intro FUCK DA SBANGT also ich bin chli am büecher ihrume und die beats gönd absolut dumm und stönd au ih somene geile gegesatz zude mega schöne melodie wo gsunge werded miss you much isch iwie es slay lied???? chammer das sege??? lieber nöd aber bis jz s beste lied wie so hüfig stellt sich d frag: wiso 1h? so gege endi haut de bass nümme so krass inne und es isch echli weniger speziell (für mich) aber immerno sind die drums so geil gitisoloooo aber ja luca mier hends scho besproche, die schnulzene sind echli heavy BRO JZ HANI GMEINT COME BACK TO ME ISCH FERTIG someday is tonight würkli sehr geil ABER chli z vill stöhne? omg isch de schluss schön jaaa also ich han sehrsehr freud gha, und denn geg de schluss ischs chli langwilig worde. öppe 3 schnulzene hetted chönne ussecuttet werde aber für mich ganz klar es 4i
great album! Rhythm Nation is one of those hits that make their way around to me time and time again. my only gripes with the album are the interludes. Outside that its a great listen with a message.
Loved it! Great dance music. Rhythm Nation is a friggin BOP! Lyrically it’s still very relevant unfortunately. It’s sad to see not much has changed for folks.
Much like Bad, it’s a quintessential Jacksonian late 80s power pop tour de force. Holds up, too. I especially like how Janet flexes her stylistic muscles with Black Cat. And then, there’s the visual art of the album as well. That deserves love, much like Sgt Pepper’s, KISS, or anything by Devo.
I was very much about this lane of music when I was a younger man - a great mix of Michael Jackson without the narcissism and lunacy, and Prince without the lunacy and narcissism. This album isn't control, but Janet doesn't get enough credit for being Beyonce first
i dunno, it's pretty good, but i can't really stand the very very 80s pop sound on full display here. i can appreciate that she's touching on the subject matter she is (including the sample of the newscast about a shooting is a pretty legit move for an album this big and mainstream) but it doesn't really feel like she has anything specific or novel to say. I'm a broken record on this, but it's also too long, I'm now thoroughly convinced that CDs, digital formats, etc were all mistakes since at least when everything was on vinyl artists had to know how to exercise some restraint. it's good, but it has a lot of flaws that keep it from being a heavy rotation album for me
really good. so new jack swing
Definitely a concept album. Most of the interludes are there to add ambience rather than be good songs. Everything else is solid. I like a lot of the stuff on this album even if I never fully fall in love with it. 4/5
Unsanely good. *I* am a part of the rhythm nation ☝🏻
So good. Unique sound, deeply emotional and political and moving!
Album rocks and its deranged but also epic to put an interlude between every track
So many iconic songs on this album, and some great messages too. It’s one of those albums that feels like a greatest hits compilation. The interludes are a nice little touch to help with smooth song transitions. Really love this as a whole package!
Solid album ushering in a particular early 90's sound (what's up ghost notes on snare drums???). Nostalgic listen that holds up decades later. Solid, soulful, and very enjoyable album.
Janet Jackson's Rhythm Nation 1814 is an iconic album that captured the late 80s with its blend of socially conscious themes and New Jack Swing beats. Songs like Rhythm Nation and Miss You Much were groundbreaking at the time, combining R&B with hip-hop rhythms, making them feel like a call to action. Tracks such as Escapade and Alright showcase Janet's knack for creating upbeat, feel-good anthems perfect for the dance floor. The production by Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis was innovative, layering synthesized sounds with punchy drum machine beats. At the time, these tracks were exhilarating, setting the stage for future pop and R&B artists. However, listening today, some of the New Jack Swing tracks feel less groundbreaking, more nostalgic. Despite this, the album's infectious energy and Janet's charisma keep the songs entertaining. The themes of unity and social justice remain relevant, giving the album enduring significance. While the New Jack Swing sound has aged, Rhythm Nation 1814 remains a testament to Janet Jackson's artistry and vision, reflecting the excitement of its era and the timeless appeal of its messages. NUMBER OF BANGERS - 7 STAND OUT TRACK - Rhythm Nation
Listened Before? N One of the greatest mainstream pop albums of the 80s - approaching at at times surpassing her debatably more famous brother's works from the time period. The concept album with social commentary was a breath of fresh air and - as I remember - caused a large social movement within the youth of the time. She meant business, and we noticed. It helps that there's lots of great songs on here as well. Love this one. Added to Library? N Songs added to playlist: Rhythm Nation, Love Will Never Do
LUV JANET
If this album was shorter and there was less going on, it would be a masterpiece. I am a sucker for late 80s/early 90s preachy songs, it makes me feel so nostalgic and it fills me with hope, even though everything has gotten worse LOL Very good album, enjoyed
Nostalgic
Iconic singles, though the second half of the album is not the strongest
This was kind of a tough one for me to grade. It's an incredibly famous and influential album. It has some of Janet's biggest songs, and it's one of the albums responsible for bringing New Jack Swing into the mainstream. That said, it's fairly uneven as an album. You knew Michael was probably going to have at least one political song on most of his later releases, but it never took over to the point where you would mistake him for a protest artist. But Janet can't seem to decide if she wants to make a political statement or a pop album here and ends up splitting the difference in a way that's not very satisfying for either direction. The first half is front-loaded with political songs — some of them really good, some of them a little fluffy. But then the back half is mostly love songs, which range from straightforward slower songs to — for some reason — Spanish guitar, Latin-style ballads that wouldn't be out of place on a Selena album. The other issue I had is that, for me, Janet was always more of a performer/artist than singer. It was the dancing, the music videos, the fashion that made her a standout artist. Her voice, while pleasant, is fairly thin, especially considering her contemporaries like Whitney and Mariah. So just listening to the songs in isolation isn't the biggest draw for me. The best tracks on the album are Rhythm Nation and Black Cat. Everything after Black Cat is honestly pretty weak. I'll give it a 4 for influence and the singles (and Black Cat), but it's probably more of a 3.5/5.
If you told me that this was from a year other than 1989, I'd call you a liar. It is as unambiguously 1989 as any album possibly could be. 1989 permeates this album, written indelibly through its very core, as if it were a stick of 1989 rock. Taylor Swift has nothing on the 1989-ness of this. It's kinda alright, in a terribly over-the-top and brash poppy kinda way.
4.5 - Was it the Super Bowl nip slip that caused Janet's star to fade? I see that she's playing in my city in a few weeks. She's booked the massive sports arena, which is good. But tickets are still plentiful, and cheaper than I expected -- just $33 snatches up a nosebleed? This album is a banger, and probably my favorite example of new jack swing (though I’m hardly an expert). The synthesized percussion does much of the heavy lifting in the bass and middle registers, creating a clean, minimal, bold sound. Also, this record is absolutely stacked with hits. Seven of them were on regular rotation back in the day, and many still get considerable airplay. Of these “Love Will Never Do…” is my favorite — equally vulnerable and assertive, sweet and sassy. I love that single pulsing bass, insistent and propulsive. I love the call and response breakdown near the end, and how it gradually incorporates some surprising jazz chord structures, little variations that keep an otherwise repetitive set of elements sounding fresh until the very end. Phenomenal. But, the real surprise was hearing “Black Cat” for the first time in years. It’s a stone-cold rocker that reminds me of some of Heart’s power balladry of the late-80’s. That guitar solo goes hard. What an unexpected surprise that lifts the tail-end of an already impressive record.
No shame, this is great.
She was already a Jackson, so she was fame-adjacent no matter what. “Control” was a fun record. But this one made her a giant in the Pop world. What an incredible mix of Pop, R&B, Funk, Soul, sampling beats and Hip-Hop influences. Just a mature statement as well as a vehicle for Janet to shine. Plus, it fits the concept album definition, so kudos to Janet for trying on so many hats and so successfully presenting herself as a multifaceted artist.
Старушка в принципе недалеко от братца ушла, удивила. Единственное, что эти синты и драмка на протяжении часа все таки начали меня утомлять. Поэтому ниже немного оценю
Bra plate!
You can't listen to this and not be amazed by the songs and production. A Jam/Lewis masterpiece! Play loud.
Good this, listened too long ago to be more insightful
Beter than expected
High energy. Fun and familiar. Felt like a time capsule to high school.
Its a pop album. But a great one at that. Long time since i listened to this but really enjoyed listening to it again
It's sort of interesting that this album is pitched as a concept album about social issues, but all the hits are more traditional love songs. This isn't meant as a criticism, Jackson absolutely addresses the social issues she is interested in. It's just kinda funny that like ever single fun love song on this album was a fucking gigantic hit. I'm honestly surprised that this album doesn't get talked about more, given how well it's held up. I think that some of the negative attention to Michael Jackson stuck on Janet, and of course there was that time when she accidentally showed America her bare breast, and we all decided that we were furious about this for reasons that I've never understood. Hell, she's almost 58 years old, and I would still pay good money to see one of the girls again. I digress. This is a good album, and I will fight anyone who talks shit on Janet Jackson's breasts 4/5
The sound is original and the album is well put together. Refreshing
A lot better then i was expecting. The dance tracks held up better for me then the ballads. The singles were a nice bit of nostalgia.
Escapade rocks
Janet did well to come out from the shadow of brother Mikey and the other four brothers of the Jackson 5. This album showed she had something to add to the pop music of the day. The dancing and music videos made this project stand out visually. Of course, how can anyone forget the wardrobe malfunction Super Bowl incident? That got everyone’s attention!
Fun album that ushered in the 90s. Definitely replayable. I’ll give it a solid 4. Rant time. What’s the point of the interludes between EVERY SONG? I see a few angles… 1 - if they aren’t important enough to be part of the song, why include them? 2 - do these count as more plays for the artist on Spotify? If so, for a person in 1989, that’s great insight into the far off future! 3 - if you are making a playlist, it’s great that you can easily cut out the crap… unless you like the content of an interlude, in which case it’ll piss you off. End of the day, a few interludes did enhance the songs (so just should’ve been on the track itself) others were just space fillers and unnecessary. Cut them. Rant over.
Favourite tracks: rhythm nation; state of the world; miss you much
cool album. reminds me of paula abdul but with more wholesome lyrics. i was bopping along
89 was a monster year for hip hop. 3rd best only beaten by 3 feet high and rising and Pauls Boutique.
Enjoyed this a lot more than I expected.
Vacillates wildly between danceable funky all-time bangers, and very dull R & B
La voce assomiglia tantissimo a quella di Michael! Bello!
Iconic album, but I really hate how the snare drums sound in these songs.
Very ahead of it's time for an album released in the early 1800's. ⏩⏩⏩⏩
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production and composition are excellent, especially the transitions. the variety of themes in the lyrics can be a bit jarring, and some songs are a bit longer than necessary. overall really strong album, but it's missing songs that are simply catchy
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2 great album! Still relevant 35 years later! Such a fun treat for your headphones/ears.
A proper gem
Perfekt produziert. Überragender Sound.
I love this album. It’s incredibly over produced and LOUD….but that was the sound of the time (‘Purple’ Jack Swing). So many hits that will now be stuck in my head for the next year. 2 stars EACH for Jimmy Jamm and Terry Lewis. Long live ‘The Time’!!!
It’s Rhythm Nation. What is there to say. It’s a fantastic exploration for Janet. As an artist, as a woman. She clearly found a little of herself with this album. It’s a full fledged pop masterwork. It might also be her crowning moment.
I had forgotten how many of these songs I knew. (Dumb moment: I always thought "Love Will Never Do (Without You)" was called "They Said It Wouldn't Last". My mistake. The ultra-serious moment: "Livin' In A World (They Didn't Make)" seems forced right after "Love Will Never Do". There needed to be a better transition, which should have been interludes between every other song. And the ending (with the kids screaming) to it is creepy not powerful. Top songs "Miss You Much" (always one of my favorites of hers), "Escapade," the title track.
Difficult album to rate. First, persisting, and overall impression? A 3.5. Why? I'll start with the bad. It is so stereotypically 80's with the production and musical engineering - from the repeated use of that synth drum slap sound (Miss You Much, Love Will Never Do, Alright) and other cheesy drum track effects (State of the World, Escapade, Black Cat) to finger snaps (Lonely, Come Back to Me), those short shrieks made famous in It Takes Two (Rhythm Nation, Alright), that howling/whistling synth sound on Lonely (you know the one, can't place which other 80's song does the same), and some Kenny G-sounding sax to close out the album (Someday is Tonight). But the 80's was also fun if not eccentric, and this album is that too. And Janet brings the energy. Rhythm Nation, Miss You Much, Alright, Escapade, and Black Cat in particular - with her borrowing her brother's move on that last song and going with a pure rocker (courtesy Extreme's guitarist). She is also fierce - not just her delivery but she went with her lyrics and her message and mostly brought it (some of the interludes or songs are too light-hearted). She does the soft stuff pretty well (Love Will Never Do, Come Back to Me, Someday is Tonight), almost as much as the heavier social commentary songs (State of the World, Livin' in a World). No doubt the album is uneven and Janet let the producers get too much say in its sound. But she was told don't do this and it'll bomb, and she did it her way and instead became a superstar. Kudos to that.
This album was in its heyday when I was in early elementary school. A lot of it sounds dated, in my opinion mainly due to the drums, but there’s no question of the impact this album had on pop music at the time.
Disco con muy bien ritmo de un icono de la música de baile de finales de los 80. Sensual y un tanto hip-hop
Starts well sounding a little bit like Prince from the same era. Last few slower songs are a bit schmaltzy. I love the "got the message, let's dance" bit!
It's amazing to hear an album this ambitious, conceptual, and confident from a 23-year-old; even more unbelievably, this was only her fourth proper album. I feel like I've missed something from the one listen, so I'd like to revisit this and commit to closer listening. There's the 1989 of it all: the massive drums, glossy backing vocals, and synths. "Dated" tends to have a negative connotation, but I don't mind that I can hear the year on this one. The songs stand up to time. Highlights: Rhythm Nation, Livin' In A World (They Didn't Make), Black Cat
I don't think I've ever listened to or cared about Janet Jackson at all before. So I went into this one without much in the way of expectations. Most of it I ended up liking quite a bit. The album is immaculately produced and pretty varied, with a bunch of different influences but most tracks being pretty nice (the two last songs being an exception, boring). So now I know that JJ is more than only MJ's sister. 3.5 rounded up.
pretty good but too long. too much interlude stuff. i get it. capitalism bad. some really great songs in here though.
Fed disko. Synes det er meget fedt, måske stor 3er. Men sniger sig op på lille 4 fordi Janet er cool og har noget på hjerte, selvom det nok er lidt banalt
I'd forgotten how good this album was, in many ways Janet always lived in the shadows of Michael and that's a shame as she was a good artist in her own right.
Janet Jackson largely created a classic here in ‘Rhythm Nation 1814’ that sounds more like her, and less like a Prince album. That influence is still there, with Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis producing, but it’s not as overt as on the ‘Control’ album. Instead, we get a New Jack Swing classic with a strong pop-twist, energetic dance songs, and some nice slower rnb love songs/ballads that still swing (To be honest I didn’t know Janet could get that sensual and seductive, but I was pleasantly surprised). Meanwhile, the social commentary is mostly confined to the opening part of the album, and just about works without getting too preachy. It’s not perfect and sounds over produced to modern ears, but I still really like ‘Rhythm Nation 1814’. So did her brother Michael it seems, who basically ripped this off for his own ‘Dangerous’ album in ’91.
More than a bit too long but there are plenty of bangers and I'm going to go against the grain and say the production was great.
Completely overproduced and just downright delicious.
Didn't expect to like this one, but damn!
Very good album with some classic tracks
esta bueno, aunque sí sentí que era como una canción re larga, al menos durante las primeras canciones.
Pretty great...have been sleeping on this album since it predated my music listening by a year or two. Would 100% come back to it. 4.5/5
Enjoyable front to back.
It’s amazing how an unapologetic pop album can also find a way to make real comments about social justice issues and question the state of the world.
I’m not usually a fan of Pop albums. I think it works best as a singles genre, and that albums are too often marred by bad filler tracks and a lack of cohesion. Rhythm Nation 1814 is an attempt to create a cohesive artistic Pop album with both social and personal lyrical themes. I think as artistic statement it’s noble and for the most part works pretty well. I think the complaint that the album is overproduced is ridiculous, it sounds pretty similar to other late 80’s early 90’s pop records. The beats are tight, although the occasionally drown out Jackson’s vocals. Otherwise her voice is interesting, sharp and cutting but also sensual. I have a lot of thoughts about this album, and the way it seems to have been received, but I don’t think this is the right place to share them. Instead I’ll just say that I don’t think a lot of the critiques are justified, and that I would go to bat for Rhythm Nation 1814. It’s a good album.
Whoa! This was great. Of course it's of its time, but it definitely still holds up as a solid pop/R'n'B album with an interesting (and still relevant) concept, catchy melodies and variation. Janet killed it with this one.
Cat: reminds me of my mom big time. Dancing in the living room. Most of the songs are all time hits. Janet had a message. 4 stars.
This may be the most dance 80's album ever. It'ss a little much for me, but I cannot deny the mastery.
Tough listen, sounded like her brother
Janet’s fourth studio album may be her most well-rounded, even if some of the songs work better than others, on a technical as well as thematic stance. Regardless, the production across this thing is great and the funky songs are funky as shit
Oh hey it's that song that kills hard drives, or something like that. /s A really cool and funky pop and R&B album from the very end of the 80s. Sounds very 80s indeed with that huge, potentially OTT production. Some of the songs and beats feel a little samey after a while, there's a weird whiplash between songs commenting on social issues, and songs about romance and sex, and there's so many interludes for some reason. At least most of them are short so don't overstay their welcome. But god damnit it was funky and danceable and just pretty fun. A bit of a crazy and overproduced mess, but still very good. Favourite: Rhythm Nation
I see some complaints here and there in the album reviews, but I heard what I heard: good music. Not quite pushing into a 5 star for me. That's still pretty damn great.
Was it a little dated, and heavy handed, and inconsistent? Yes. Was it a good deal of fun? Also yes.
I do understand why this is on the list, but it was missing something to pump it to the 5 for me. Good vocal performance, good writing, good production, and good album structure
Pas un gros fan de Hip Hop, mais Janet est là pour donner une twist au genre pis c’est cool
4.5 Fav track Black Cat!
i finally get it, it is actually an awesome album, sort of worth the hype
3.5 Kinda sounds like if Michael Jackson had a sister. Very good in the begining but could have been trimmed towards the end I think.
Ms Janet if you're nasty kills it on this album
Excellent album with huge hits and catchy tunes. I think if they cut it by about 15 minutes it would be even better. Filler keeps it from being a 5.
Seriously? ANOTHER 4th studio album? The middle part of this album is so incredibly strong. Not sure if this was produced by the same producer as Paula Abdul?
Loved it ! She doesn’t get the recognition she deserves.
I have come to the horrifying realization that I really like Janet Jackson's music. This is what the manliest man in the gym is listening to on his headphones. Eat raw steak with your bare hands, chug the nastiest, bitterest beer and put on "Rhythm Nation" like a real man, pussy.
This is an amazing album, I've never really listened to Janet Jackson and Whoa... the king of pop definitely has a sister
Core memory unlocked: Being 9 years old, jamming Miss You Much in the back of older cousin's car, summer night, windows down, volume on max. This album is full of jams, nice vocals, and great production. Janet is the Queen of Pop, left an indelible mark on pop music and that's while standing in her brother's shadow.
This is a vibe. Fantastic album, maybe because I've listened to it quite a bit, but I really enjoyed it.
I did not expect to find anything much to appreciate here so I was pleasantly surprised by how good it was. It's hella dated, of course but that can't detract from how good the production and songwriting are. Janet stepped up her game here and it shows. I can't give it full marks on account of how dated it is and how terrible and pointless the interlude tracks are. But it earns every one of the 4 stars that I can give it.
Really good album. Standouts: Rhythm Nation, State of the World, Miss You Much, Love Will Never Do Without You, Alright, Escapade, Black Cat, Come Back to Me Favorite Track: Black Cat Rating: 4.5
This album is very fun & poppy, with some legitimately interesting musical elements in the later tracks. I enjoyed this quite a bit more than I thought I would. Favorite track: Someday is Tonight
Super solid. Didn't destroy my laptop which was nice.
One of the most interesting things about this album is the fact that Jackson sings about issues that seemingly have not changed in over 30 years. The audio of gunshots at a playground were especially and most tragically all too familiar. Other reviewers have criticized this album for being too preachy, but I think everyone no matter what their income level, especially those with a platform, have every right to confront injustice where they see it. Furthermore, Jackson went against the wishes of her label to make the album she wanted. Musically, this album is an absolute clinic in well crafted pop music. It is a bit dated, but it expertly weaves late 80s pop with synth and new Jack swing to create something unique that doesn’t feel as long as it is.
New jack swing and post industrial is not a combination I thought was even possible but man. Janet is awesome
Very pop, but pretty good. classic 80's vibe
Like :)
Definitely way more purposeful and sharp than I expected.
I had no expectations as it's completely out of my usual genre and absolutely loved it! From the new jack swing snare to heavy guitars on Black Cat, the production and instrumentals are just a perfect representation of the era. The tracklist consists primarily of solid dance tunes with sociopolitical message, which sometimes may sound naive but it seems like the author was completely aware of that and had all the best intentions. There are some weaker points, sure, especially towards the end which is unnecessarily packed with ballads, but its still a very good album overall. I will be definitely coming back to this and I'll try some other albums from Janet. 4/5
Whole lotta bangers.
It's pop music: That things are on the nose should be a given. The material stretches a little thinly over the hour, but the energy of the music more than makes up for any of those flaws. Rhythm Nation 1814 is undeniably and hugely a pop record, but it buries that fact under dark variety.
Bought when first came out, brilliant album
This must be the basis for that classic 90s r&b sound. Wow.
7/10. I enjoyed most every song, but I never want to sit down and listen to the whole album straight through again.
Destroyed my laptop
Incredible vibes. Please can we go back to bops about the importance of education for our children!
She delivers a pop dance album with a message. Prince's fingerprints are all over this too. I don't care what anyone says, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis are not the only ones behind Escapade. Jackson has an iconic sound just like her brother. The sound bites are annoying, but that's part of the style of the times. The album is a party. It's over an hour, but hardly feels like it. I can see why she's so popular. I can also see why Michael emulated her sound later in his career.
A little dated, but still a bop.
Unrepentant 80s dance pop cheese platter.
One of the greatest pop stars of the 80s and 90s, but I always placed her beneath Whitney. However, I was really impressed by her performance here. Hugely influenced by Madonna, she's loud and energetic carried by a strong old school hip-hop production style that would characterize the short-lived New Jack Swing movement (most of it would just be generic pop trash). Still very 80s with the punchy beats, spontaneous synths, and the use of samples almost like another instrument (biggest example in mind is the female shrieking sample used in a few songs). In fact, the whole album gives off 80s TV guide and workout video feels. The interludes really enforce these images, and they're so short-lived they serve to both provide breaks between these spacious and energetic tracks without dragging on to be annoying. I really enjoyed all the songs, although I do admit I got a bit exhausted by the time we got to the last few ethereal nostalgic tracks (which I did still really like, gave off vaporwave vibes). No bad tracks though. The only track I would cut is "Alright", but I did wish the record could further be slightly shorter somehow.
8/10 pretty good, not my favorite tho of this type of genre of music, I prefer the bigger guys like Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, and Anita Baker still this is pretty fun and I do appreciate it
Janet’s masterpiece (and perhaps Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis’s as well), a sprawling exploration of societal problems set to a mix of new jack swing, industrial rock and hip hop. Only the over abundance of interludes and a slightly dragging back half keep Rhythm Nation from 5 stars.
Outstanding! 4.5/5
Not heard this in years. Still pretty great, although goes a bit downhill at the end.
Had high expectations in 1989, as JJ's previous album of a few years was simply perfect, with classic singles (Nasty, What Have You Done For Me Lately, The Pleasure Principle, When I Think Of You etc) and OK perhaps a little filler... But was quiet a bit disappointed when RN1814 came out - in particular the singles of RN18 were merely ok-ish and less catchy. Overall the album turned out to be quite decent though. The signature sound of Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. Now listening to it again, I still think it is a very solid album, on the high 3 star / low 4 star end. Final vote: 3.5 -> 4, due to great 80s production.
Tough one to rate, this album. Overall, I quite liked this record, though nothing really stood out after two listens. It also took some readjusting to the 80s production style, with the pretty harsh drum machine and synth sounds, but it did sound funky in the right places, and the slower parts were done tastefully. So it may have sounded a little dated listening to this in 2022, but it kind of worked for me.
Absolutely amazing production on this album. Couple that with a killer set of pipes and you get a very solid pop album. Rhythm Nation and Escapade are timeless jams. Rest of the album is more than solid. It’s not the type of music I listen to daily but I recognize excellent pop when I hear it.
i genuinely don’t understand why this has such low reviews?? this is an album that deals with huge issues so beautifully. janet did so well with this album, it is perfect. highlights: rhythm nation, state of the world, love will never do (without you), black cat
The music is very much of its era, and the political lyrics are a little on the nose, but this has aged surprisingly well for all that.
Everything up to Miss You Much is five stars, funky and powerful and just brilliant. Everything after that is good - kind of Prince on a budget good. For shame, I'd never taken Janet Jackson seriously - on the strength of this album, I do now!
Never listened to the album all the way through. The singles from it were monster hits and were everywhere, so I knew coming into this album that it would be good. Layering the concept on top bumped it up a few notches for me. 4/5.
Fantastic album. If you weren't there when this came out in 1989, it was such a huge deal. People lost their minds over this music, it was so fresh and powerful. It's not as fun as Control, but I think that's intentional. The album has its share of bubbly love songs, but Janet also wants to make a statement here. And she is in perfect voice. As a concept album, it's a bit of a fail, with less than half the songs addressing social issues, the only connecting thread being that series of vague interludes. I don't know if this album is specifically to blame for the trend of putting interludes on albums, but I suspect it. I'll give Janet a pass because it's kind of wrapped up in her style, but the interludes don't add a thing to this album, with the exception of the final one ("Livin'...In Complete Darkness" - minor quibble as well, it's not an interlude if nothing comes after it). Thankfully, she kept them brief. I feel like the album would have been tighter and more effective if they had limited the number of ballads, but it's a small complaint. I really enjoyed listening to this. Fave Songs: Alright, Rhythm Nation, The Knowledge, Lonely, State of the World
I was actually fearing this one for being 80’s and 1 hour long, but I was already 12 songs into it when I realized all those fears were quite uncalled for. Good record.
Good pop album. Really borrows from mj, but still a really enjoyable listen.
Har lyssnat om några gånger nu och jag tycker att detta är bra. Lagom mix av pop och synth. Blev förvånad, då jag egentligen inte haft några tankar kring Janet alls.
Guilty pleasure and some great tracks (always liked "Miss you much"), albeit a tad overproduced. Hadn't ever listened all the way through.
My second listen in the last few years after scoring this album at a Yankee Swap. Has inspired me to check out a few others from this era: Control (1986) and Janet (1993).
A near perfect example of the r and b genre, Rhythm Nation 1814 spawned hit after hit and solidified Jam and Lewis’ reputation for producing high quality, radio friendly tracks. And Janet Jackson is such a powerful presence - bold vocals and charisma to spare . Although the social consciousness of her album is over stated, at least there is an attempt at something to say. An album that spawned many imitators and flipped urban music to the mainstream. Really massive record.
Finally something more comfortable after a series of weird stuff. Music-wise it's pretty catchy and rhythmic, full of energy. And of course... who can reject dancing beats! Love Will Never Do -- a yay Livin' in a World -- even better Come Back to Me -- a big yay
This one really brings me back in a good way to when I was starting to become more aware of music outside of my parent's collection. I remember alot of these songs quite well. Makes sense as there were so many singles from it. They are really having fun with the new capabilities of the sampler all over this record. I think it was really brave of her to go for a concept album that doesn't avert it's eyes from some harsh realities immediately after her first breakout success. And the fact that this became even more successful makes it all the sweeter. I love when artists are rewarded for brave choices and it proves pop audiences don't always want formulaic pap.
It's a good record, I think if it was half as long I would have given it 5 without blinking.
Interesting album with many interludes
I admittedly didn’t ACTIVELY listen to this album but it made decent “feel good” background music. Overall I’d say it was a neutral to positive experience but nothing really stood out to me
This is a really good album. Not really my thing but the songs are catchy and danceable all while providing a social commentary (although sometimes a little corny). That was probably the whole point so mission accomplished. Unlikely that I'll listen to it again though.
A little overproduced in some areas, but Janet has an amazing voice and some poignant lyrics that make this a catchy and enjoyable listen.
Me gustó mucho el disco. Nunca escucho Janet Jackson. Es uno de esos artistas que tenes abajo del todo en la lista de "gente que algun dia voy a escuchar". Es muy notorio la influencia de este disco en artistas de pop-comercial que existen hoy en dia. Como una Madonna negra. El apartado tecnico es bastante elaborado para ser un disco de pop de finales de los 80's cuando los artistas descubrieron que todo se podia hacer "apretando unos botoncitos de mierda" y sacar un exito del otro lado. No le quita credito siendo que no todos saben QUE botones y CUANDO apretarlos. Salta a la vista enseguida con el primer tema que no querian hacer algo parecido a MJ pero lo suficientemente distanciado como para que se pueda parar por si mismo... Excepto en Rythm Nation que parece sacado de Dangerous. Lo voy a poner en rotation en mis playlist porque es un buen departure del overly-produced pop que se escucha hoy en dia.
Great, long but doesn't feel like it - 3.5 easy
I wasn't a fan of the New Jack Swing sound then, and I'm still not. But some great melodies and meaningful lyrics buoy this.
Holy shit, Janet, why is this album so long? Had very positive memories of this album but then realized my actual positive memory was my ten or so liked songs that are album length by themselves. This album is about twenty songs and there is not enough variety for it. She writes on social issues but with an elementary school kid's level of nuance. A lot of the Michael Jackson level "the kids are sad" stuff which is fine here and there but isn't enough to carry a work this long. Also the drums on this give me a headache
really enjoyed the first half of this album but the second half wasnt as good
What’s with all the interludes
late 80s WOKE fuck yes OH HEY SHE MADE THAT ONE SONG !! ESCAPADE !!! HOLY SHIT COOL
Its fine
#257/1001 🇺🇸 This one felt like a bit of a slog to be honest. Its long and musically not my normal bag. There is some good lyrical content. Its a decent, thoughtful pop record and gets stronger towards the end, but i won't feel the need to revisit. Best tracks: State of the World, Miss You Much, Black Cat, Lonely, Something is Tonight.
My eldest son really loves formula one, just loves the technical aspect of the sport. For me, sport should be about individuals and they work they work in a team not engineering. And I think the same about music, and while this is a feat of engineering and production it keeps the listener at arms length. Songs like Miss you much are machine tooled but lack a human element.
Pop RnB sympa
J'ai mieux aimé le concept que l'exécution
A lot of fun that I will ultimately forget.
I know it's a bold concept album with military-crisp drum machine and making the most of Jackson's squeaky thin voice, overall precise and Controlled. But for a few songs, it just isn't enjoyable to listen to.
Wasn't expecting to like this album as much as I did. It's actually pretty sweet. This is an example of New Jack Swing music, which I've always heard about and less so actually heard, and I know that it's fairly hated from some of the rap music I listen to, I suppose that's why I didn't have high expectation. One of the biggest characteristics of this album that stand out to me is the very rigid, stiff and mechanical-like drum beats. It seems mostly dance-leaning pop songs earlier in the album, and more slower vulnerable songs later on, with interludes inbetween songs galore. I think this is just slightly below a 4 star rating, so 3 star it is! Highlight Song/s: "Miss You Much" and "Love Will Never Do (Without You)
You can feel how deeply 80s this is. Lots of synth, lots of sound engineering, I assume a lot of dance moves and styles. Her vocals aren't bad but don't really do anything more than some sonic additions. Good example of this sort of thing. Not changing my day
It really takes advantage the format of an album. This belongs on the list, but this production isn't for me right now. This really is pop. Just constructed around her, could be anyone. I wouldn't be against dancing to some of the later tracks as the night is winding down on a wedding dance floor.
Some good stuff here, a little too much the same tone throughout for me.
I loved Control both the song and album when it came out constant repeat on my Walkman. 8th grade I think I cools not get enough. I bought this follow up album on hopes it would repeat but nope it never really clicked. Listening today has been nostalgic but not offered much in terms of changing my mind. In fact if anything my ears live in a much larger and diverse world now compared to middle school and I’m left wondering a bit what I ever saw in this. 3/5
Feel like you need to listen to this music while watching the dance routine video. I like a few of the songs although I would not categorize anything here as break through. Most of the Jacksons are very talented - Janet is no exception.
I really wanted to like this, especially given how few girly pop albums are on this list, but the “save the children” songs screamed D.A.R.E to me. Enjoyed quite a bit of this album otherwise.
Without any background information on this album or even knowing who sang it about two songs in I would have been able to say it came out in 1989.
Don’t think this needed to be as long as it was. Really like it at first, it does cheesy 80’s better than a lot of what the rest of the artists spent this decade trying. Some of the best New Jack Swing one could find. The runtime was a bit long though and I didn’t really get many memorable songs out of the album past the first few.
Pop/R&B are generally not my wheelhouse. This album rises above it's peers of the time. Love the strong hip-hop influence. New Jack Swing should have caught on more.
This started strong with the first song, but I guess I found the rest not very interesting.
Once those drums kicked in on the title track I knew this was going to be something I enjoyed. Very fun dance heavy sounds that touch on pretty interesting topics in a pop record ocassionally. Main issue here is one I level at similar length records being: this is just too long. It's definitely a fun listen and the interludes are quick and don't ruin the flow, but I get the point part way through and wish it had been cut down to a shorter time. Still, a fun listen with some great dance elements.
Lite väl lång men överlag trevlig pop
Riktigt nice i början men tröttnade lite mot slutet.
I got too much of this album 7 its videos in 1989. It has a few genuinely good pop songs and the production was top notch for the time (but sounds machine-like today, like all Jam/Lewis albums do). All the skits and bits in between tracks takes away from the music but maybe it enhanced the experience in 1989, I wouldn't know. The title track is a pretty solid song, still gets airplay and has a good hook. The rest is filler (with a repetitious drum machine beat crammed down your throat) until you get to "Escapade" which is a really good pop song, catchy with a sing-along chorus. "Miss You Much" has a moment but isn't quite on target. "Black Cat" was JJ's foray into rock, kinda like MJ's "Dirty Diana". Not my thing but it has its moments. Two huge radio hits and a couple "video" hits as well. The sound is electronic & dated, she has a legacy built on this album, definitely influential for the time. There's merit for this to be on the T1001 because of the huge impact it had in the late 80's, but it wouldn't make my personal list. 3 stars for that reasoning.
The best singles still land, but the slower singles and B-sides drift into a dated sound that just feels a little too corny for me to really get excited about.
Im missing how this is anything other than catchy 80/90's radio disposable POP. 2.5 star
I can see why "Rhythm Nation 1814" is on this list, even though it isn't that great. After 1989, many artists began to copy Jackson's sound. "Rhythm Nation 1814" itself feels dated by today's standards. The singles on it are good for casual listening. However, the extremely short interludes are unnecessary. 3 stars for "Rhythm Nation 1814".
80's stadium pop.
I feel so totally meh about this. It just washed right over me. 3/5
State of the World might be my most hated genre of song from the 80s. Shits bad! Okay what should we do? SHITS BAD! Okay thanks. It’s front loaded with this vibe of song. The production is equal parts delightful and overbearing. Livin in a World ending with a bunch of children getting murdered and then HARD CUT TO A FUNKY FRESH DANCE SONG IS CRAAAAZY
I remember being pleasantly surprised by this one, Janet definitely surpasses MJ as an artist. Good instrumentation, great track diversity and structure. Good vocals but unfortunately lyrics are a little weak and far too many interludes. Solid 3
I prefer the newer stuff
This album, coming 15 years before the infamous “wardrobe malfunction” that (somewhat unjustly) derailed her career, is considered by critics to be her creative pinnacle. As such, I wanted to like this more than I actually did. It hung around longer than it should have, clocking in at over 60 minutes. Songs are a bit too samey without much variety in rhythm. Vocals quite wispy at times. Thematically confused, comes across like “the world is in a terrible place, so shake your rump and get it on.” And dang, those interludes are irritating and pretentious, and do not advance the plot the way they should. Wish the curator had selected “Control” as her album instead.
A fun album, lots of very heavy drums and a lot of the songs blended into each other. But it was fun to listen to , also the resemblance to her brother on the cover is uncanny to me
Low-end 3. Moves from generic 80s pop to fine but unremarkable R&B. State of the World and Someday is Tonight the highlights of each half
I want to like it but it really just isn’t my thing. I like her voice but there are a lot of production choices that I’m not a fan of. I do respect her for pressing to make an album of social commentary even if the lyrics are a little clumsy sometimes. Has a few catchy tunes, but it isn’t something I’ll come back to. Seeing how successful she was before she was blacklisted does make me even angrier for her though. Fav song: Black Cat Least fav: Someday Is Tonight
Not the biggest fan of this. Some decent poppy sounding ones but in general it was in one ear and out the other. Too many interludes also. Specific rating - 3.4 Fav song - living in a world (they didn’t make) Least fav- someday is tonight.
I knew she was famous but I didn't realise she was as big as she was! I'm glad we had this album just so I could read her wikipedia and learn more about her cultural impact. But musically I didn't love it. A bit too repetitive for me and some slightly annoying production choices. Favourite song: Black Cat Least: State of the World
I didn't hate this as much as I thought I would.
really nice
Talented. I can only do a little bit at a time though. I can't believe how much Viacom overreacted. I kind or want to rate this higher since she was so badly mistreated.
Definitely 80's pop.
It’s fine I guess
Fair enough but a bit pedestrian for me
7/10
Bumped from 2->3 solely because of Black Cat; best song on the album by a mile. Wanted to like this more than I did. Something about the overproduced style mixed with rich-lady-talking-about-poor-people just didnt land very well.
Enjoyed this but not as much as I thought
I did not finish this. It’s fine but not my thing. Of the material I did listen to, Knowledge stood out for me.
Never felt the need to listen to a Janet Jackson album. She's talented, and the most likable member of a vast, strange family. But ... it's a pop album. Singles on the radio. That's adequate. This is ok. Kind of boring. The songs all seem longer than they need to be. (Thanks, compact disc technology!) The percussion is notably tinny. Don't like that. The album ends (at last) with a reprise of the song about the plight of the children, drawing the listener's attention to linger on the way the children live in a world they didn't make. This, combined with some psychoanalytic theory and a bit of pop psychology, helps one to understand -- finally! -- the deep inner logic of Howard the Duck, who of course also -- just like The Children --was Trapped in a World He Never Made.
One thing I am learning through this process is that listening to unfamiliar music requires patience, and I don't have a lot of patience anymore. Or at least, I don't have patience for records from this era. I'm starting to think a lot about how an artistic endeavor can be ruined by production trends of the time. I think there is an album in here I would have liked. But I found this record to be way too long to be tolerated. There were too many songs on here. There were too many "interludes." (Honestly even one interlude was too many.) The songs themselves were often too long. I can't say I hated it, I just felt like it went on too long and I was often bored, which is not what you want in a pop/R&B album. The slow songs were particularly excruciating. The good songs were really good though.
The politics are just too simplistic to do justice to the fun dance bops
decent 2.5
Jackson inc., easy listening