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...wasn’t busy producing a new album for Justin Bieber, Usher found the time to record one of his own. Much like it’s hard to take teenage protégé Bieber seriously, Usher’s sixth record, “Raymond v. Raymond,” struggles to make a sophisticated and grown-up statement...
During the recording of “Raymond v. Raymond,” Usher filed for divorce from his wife Tameka. This event supposedly pushed his songwriting in a more personal, confessional direction. This is a similar formula to the one used on his fourth album, which was actually entitled “Confessions” and followed his separation from his long-term girlfriend, TLC’s Chilli. By reviving this formula, Usher may be hoping to return to the massive success he achieved with “Confessions.” However, “Raymond v...
...Raymond v. Raymond” doesn’t contain anything as instantly and inescapably catchy as the hit single “Yeah!” from “Confessions,” but it certainly does have its strong points. Bonus track “More” is actually one of the album’s highlights, and its slick beats and self-assured air are certainly reminiscent of Usher’s past hits. Usher’s core aesthetic reamins intact: most songs feature strong electronic beats as well as an abundance of vocal...
...music, nevertheless, oftentimes doesn’t make up for the insipid subject matter and silliness of the album’s lyrics, which are the weakest point of “Raymond v. Raymond.” A perfect example of this is “OMG,” featuring and produced by The Black Eyed Peas’ will.i.am, perhaps the most ridiculous track. Another ode to club hookups, the lyrics show that a poet Usher is not, as he laughably attempts to describe the woman he has fallen for by singing, “Honey...
...self-confessional” album’s concept off of the ground. What Usher needs isn’t another album of so-called introspection to bring back the success of his past, but some new inventiveness in his career, something that “Raymond v. Raymond” fails to exhibit...