Robin Thicke Blurred Lines Interscope C-
The title song has taken singer Robin Thicke from R&B hit lists to the top of the pop charts. Its irresistible groove echoes Marvin Gaye’s “Got to Give It Up.” Thicke, whose voice recalls Gaye in his creamy falsetto and, at times, Justin Timberlake, is engaging as a singer throughout the album, which is released today.
But lyrics can be tasteless. There’s the crude boasts of sexual endowment and prowess, sometimes with a queasy, dark edge, especially on “Take ItEasy on Me” and “Give It 2 U.”
There are some moments that are pretty stunning. “Ain’t No Hat 4 That” has a cool, retro vibe that is funky and danceable with hints of Earth, Wind & Fire (especially in the horns) and maybe bits of Parliament.
The Motown redux “Ooo La La” has its charms.
Thicke’s voice is lithe and impressive but the album lacks lyrical substance.
Hot tracks: “Blurred Lines,” “Ain’t No Hat 4 That.” - ELLIS WIDNER
Various artists When I Grow Up: Broadway’s Next Generation Broadway Records B-
The 54 Below club trots out some of Broadway’s youngest performers to sing more adult songs - no Annie or Matilda here. Instead, these minors are belting out songs from Avenue Q, Company and Next to Normal. It’s not “adult” in a “Someone call Child Protective Services!” way. They’re just songs that are not typically sung by people too young to drive.
Whether this album is worth owning, though, depends. Do you find performing children adorable? Do you just love it when your friends’ kids get upand put on a show for you? If so, you’d probably enjoy this. If your answer to either question is “No, it’s obnoxious,” this is probably not for you.
Most of the kids do a fantastic job. There are a couple of younger ones who are not yet at the level of their older counterparts and who try to do things vocally that their voices just aren’t ready for yet. But most acquit themselves well on numbers such as the tongue-twisting “Getting Married Today” from Company.
Hot tracks: “Getting Married Today,” “A Summer in Ohio.” - JENNIFER NIXON
Style, Pages 32 on 07/30/2013