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Niles West News

The Student News Site of Niles West High School

Niles West News

“The 20/20 Experience” is a Classy Comeback

The 20/20 Experience is a Classy Comeback

Justin Timberlake has had repeated success in the music business ever since his days in Mickey Mouse Club and a little boy band N*Sync to hit solo albums like “Futuresex/Lovesounds.” His last single was released in 2006 and now over six year later he’s making a comeback with the highly anticipated album, “The 20/20 Experience.”

Pusher Love Girl: If you’ve seen his performance at the 2013 Grammy’s, then you should recognize this song. This was the first tune he sang before he belted out “Suit & Tie” with Jay-Z. What I like most about it is that it is a simple start to this album (besides the fact that it is eight minutes.) Timberlake’s voice is accompanied by an orchestra to create a vintage, funky sound. This song easily became one of my favorites, and it’s something that anyone can listen to.

Suit & Tie: This was the first single from this album. It’s a very different tune from his old songs like “Sexyback,” “Cry Me a River,” and “Rock Your Body.” At the first listen, I didn’t like this very much because I was not used to the new sound, but I grew to love it. What makes this song really good is the collaboration with Jay-Z.

Don’t Hold the Wall: Definitely a standout track, that’s for sure. The beginning with drum was like a tribal chant. I wasn’t expecting a sound like this from Timberlake; however, this is a fun track. This is another song produced by Timbaland, and there are so many different things going on in this song that it was hard to catch it right away.

Strawberry Bubblegum: A throwback tune that sounds like Justin Timberlake from early 2000. Not exactly a lyrical masterpiece, but this is a fun song to listen to. Unfortunately, the tune is a little bit lackluster. When I was listening to it, I felt that there was something missing from it.

Tunnel Vision: Nothing spectacular here, it’s just another six minute song. But don’t let that throw you and stop you from listening to this album. I did enjoy the visual that this song creates when Timberlake sang the chorus, it was almost as if I were in a tunnel. The rhythm is much like “My Love.” It has great lyrics, and it’s traditional Timbaland.

Spaceship Coupe: This starts off with a powerful vocal run from Timberlake. It has an R&B sound to it with a catchy chorus. Listeners will like how easy it is to catch on and sing along. Although not one of my favorites, I love the range in his voice here.

That Girl: This song is proof that Jessica Biel is the luckiest woman alive. It’s not exactly specified anywhere that this song was written or dedicated to her, but he’s basically saying that I don’t care what anyone says, I’m in love with her and that’s all that matters. Lucky you, Mrs. Timberlake. Besides the lyrics, this song has a catchy tune that is very calming. A slow groove that any person can sing along to.

Let The Groove In: This is an upbeat track that was unexpected, kind of like “Don’t Hold the Wall.” The rhythm of the drums is different from the whole album. It’s fun and makes me want to get up and dance along. This song makes me want to see Timberlake perform this live.

Mirrors- This is my favorite song from the album. Although it is not an upbeat ballad, the lyrics here are meaningful and intense. The lyrics are heartbreaking, but that’s what makes it good. I love the emotion and vulnerability that Timberlake displays.. The hook is catchy, and I love the range of his voice here.  This was also a good choice as the second single to release from this album because it is a complete contrast to “Suit & Tie.”

Blue Ocean Floor- A very slow, hypnotizing song. It almost sounds like a lullaby, and it has an old school sound to it. This melodic sound had me swaying along and drifting away with it. This is definitely a song that you listen to at night because it relaxes you. This track is more lyrical than it is musical, and you can hear why. Not one of my favorites, but it is very gorgeous in a sense.

Dress On– This is one of the bonus songs from the deluxe edition of “The 20/20 Experience.” I love the sense of old hip-hop track of the album. It is very old fashioned, and Timberlake paired up with producer, Timbaland (who produced his previous album) here. Timbaland adds flair here.

Body Count– The second bonus of the deluxe edition. Much like “Let the Groove In.” I love this song, again you can hear Timbaland chiming in at the beginning. Anyone can enjoy this song. It’s a party song that is fun for anyone. Much like “Let the Groove In,” I’d love to see Timberlake perform this live.

So why is there so much hype about The “20/20 Experience?” His last album “Futuresex/Lovesounds” was phenomenal; it’s an album that I still love listening to today, but this album is also great (again besides the fact that each song is over five minutes). Timberlake’s musicality and ability to perform is amazing. I love it when an artist can actually sing. Sounds silly, I know, but when I think of all the singers today who rely on auto-tune or just have terrible voices in general, it’s refreshing to listen to singers with genuine voices and real talent.

Each song in the “20/20 Experience” is relatable to falling in love or dealing with emotional heartbreak. This album has class, and I’m eagerly awaiting for the release of part two of “The 20/20 Experience.”

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