Album Review (With A Twist): Rihanna – ‘Unapologetic’

Seven years. Seven albums. And seven million opinions. Rihanna has undoubtedly become one of Pop’s most pronounced polarizers.  Indeed, in an industry which sees tastes and consumption pattens change with the wind, some cultural commentators see the star’s candy-coloured wigs and annual albums as the blueprint for commercial survival. For others, her quantity over quality approach is the root cause of everything wrong with the once flourishing music business.

Whatever one’s take on the Bajan bombshell, the fact is…you have one; an ethos the 24 year old is all-too-aware of on her latest opus ‘Unapologetic’.

A flagrant courter of controversy, the album ironically takes aim with the tabloid flames she and her team ignited to burn her name into mass consciousness. Smartly, though, such themes are merely a light undercoat to an otherwise “business as usual” Rihanna LP. Catchy hooks, stellar production, and questionable vocals characterise much of the record; again, polarizing opinion. For, while some love her for this, it’s these exact traits that certain sects loathe.

Alas, in tipping our hats to the Roc Nation star’s status as That Grape Juice’s most-talked-about act, we want to hear YOUR review of ‘Unapologetic’! Did she deliver? Did she disappoint? Sound off below!

That Grape Juice’s Favourite ‘Unapologetic’ Tracks:

* Nobody’s Business (ft. Chris Brown)

* No Love Allowed

* Stay

* Jump

That Grape Juice’s Least Favourite ‘Unapologetic’ Tracks:

* Fresh Off The Runway

* Numb (ft. Eminem)

*Right Now (ft. David Guetta)

That Grape Juice Rating: 3/5

Conclusive: Album boasts strong moments, yet is plagued by disturbing and heavy portions of filler.

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