Music Review: Musiq Soulchild's OnMyRadio

By now, you may have heard Musiq Soulchild's duet with Mary J. Blige, If You Leave [on your radio]. This track is just one of the great songs found within Onmyradio. There is an apparent shift in Musiq's artistry, but he manages to deliver just enough to keep you on board. Musiq came to us by way of Neo-Soul, and attempts to hold on to his Neo - roots with joints like Special. Special is a head-bobber, but definitely not a dance track. The tune is busy and Musiq delivers the lyrics in sing-song fashion, with an attempt towards rap. Special is one of the few tracks that qualify as Neo-Soul.

Backagain - This jam is #1 on the playlist and is hot enough to boil eggs. Apparently, there is still a good use for drum machines! Backagain is reminiscent of a Bobby Brown track, My Prerogative. Patience is something you'll need with Deserveumore. Deserveumore is a blend of the traditional urban ballad and modern word-phrasing. Musiq attempts to bridge two eras, but the song doesn't fight for your attention. Musiq's in his comfort zone with Someone, as he gives you pure emotion…complimented by hot beats.

This track is a clear pull away from Neo- and a potential nudge towards a new sound for Musiq. Think Maxwell, D'Angelo and Terrance Trent D'arby. Sobeautiful creeps into your ear with a familiar sound that made people stop and listen to Musiq. On this track, he gives you sensual falsetto, and holds on to it for several bars. If you need a track to enhance an active romantic evening, this is it! Iwannabe is the official hip-shaker of the album. It's radio, club, and fan friendly. One would wonder why this wasn't the first release. The cut has a hint of island flavor and is certified with a brief contribution by Damien Marley. The album closes with a track entitled Radio. Musiq may have struggled to find a way to tie all of the songs together, but this was a tired attempt to remain current and relevant.

While there are some great jewels within Onmyradio, the album lacks synergy. You'll get the impression that Musiq is trying to bring along his old fans, develop new ones, and is leaning back in a chair sipping on a glass of Crunk.

This review is also posted at: http://www.gbmnews.com/articles/4288/1/OnMyRadio---Musiq-Soulchild/Page1.html


Badilisho
http://ibwriting.blogspot.com