Release Date: Jan. 28
Record Label: Westbury Road and Roc Nation
Duration: 44 minutes
Grade: B-
R&B bad girl Rihanna released her eighth studio album “Anti" on Jan. 28. Including collaborations with artists such as Drake and SZA, “Anti” demonstrates Rihanna’s creativity and overall growth as an individual artist.
After nearly a four-year absence, 27-year-old Rihanna has returned to the music scene to reclaim her throne as the queen of R&B. The Barbados native’s latest project contains 13 new unique tracks.
“Work” is the fourth track on the album, and was the first single released from “Anti.” Featuring widely popular Canadian rapper Drake, “Work” was released on Tidal on Jan. 27. Staying true to Rihanna’s artistic style, “Work” has an enticing beat as well as promiscuous lyrics. The track is only improved with the contribution from Drake — the chemistry between the two is apparent and the song blesses listeners with a peek into what is rumored to be a very complex relationship.
“Consideration” is the first track on the album and features collaboration with SZA. The track seems to hold more of a serious context than fans may be used to hearing from Rihanna. With the help of SZA’s notable skills as a singer-songwriter, Rihanna uses her impressive vocals to make what seems to be a commentary on the restrictions and expectations placed on her. The track has been rumored to be about Rihanna’s transition between labels. In 2014, Rihanna switched from Def Jam Records to Roc Nation. Roc Nation is owned by Jay Z, who is known to be a close friend of Rihanna.
Jaded singles and independents will rejoice upon hearing the seventh track on “Anti” which is entitled “Needed Me.” Rihanna returns to her classic "good girl gone bad" ways as she confidently declares her power as a woman through the lyrics on the track. Both the lyrics and the music are equal in strength, making the song enjoyable to listen to. “Needed Me” is the perfect song for any angsty human to belt out this Valentine’s Day and is definitely a strong contender for her next single.
Collectively, Rihanna’s latest album “Anti” is a logical progression from her last project. “Anti” as a whole easily conveys Rihanna's enviable sex appeal, confidence and talent to listeners. While not the strongest album she has put out to date, “Anti” is sure to have a few popular hits and is worth a listen.