Sting & Shaggy – 44/876 Reaction

3.5

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If there was ever a time in which we’ve reached peak collaborations, that time would be now. Sting & Shaggy are the pairing that nobody saw coming and I’m not sure anyone was asking for. I mean Sting hasn’t necessarily been in peak form in quite some time and although Shaggy is an instantly recognizable name and voice in reggae, there are countless better artists Sting could have chosen from the genre. However, despite going into 44/876 with a hefty amount of cynicism, I walked away generally positive and with a smile on my face. At times it can be as hokey as you’d expect, crossing off a checklist of myriad Caribbean and reggae cliches, but damn if it isn’t an enjoyable listen nonetheless. I can’t remember the last time we’ve heard Sting having this much fun (he dives all in), Shaggy’s voice is nothing less than highly distinctive and a great foil to Sting’s smoother vocals, and their clear natural chemistry together makes for good vibes. This reggae-lite collaboration between Sting & Shaggy may not have been asked for, but it is welcomed.

1

Twin Shadow – Caer Reaction

On Caer, for every moment of true brilliance there are moments of head scratching mundanity, but regardless of these concerns, it's still an extremely smooth listen and another lesson from Twin Shadow in crafting sparkling pop hooks.

3.6

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2

Swae Lee – Swaecation Reaction

Swae Lee just solidified the claim that he's the most talented out of Rae Sremmurd with a project full of lush cruising music and pop/R&B experimentation that paid off far more than one might imagine. Out of all 3 offerings, "Swaecation" is by and far the real standout of the bunch.

4.5

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3

Janelle Monáe – Dirty Computer Reaction

Janelle Monáe is at her most authentic self here, but while much of it is about self expression and living your truth, it's still very timely and aware of the larger things happening in our society (protest music you can party to). An album all her own sound that can only be described as 'futuristic funk' - it's sonics are lush, it's synths are bright, and it's bounce is irresistible.

4.8

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“I’m not asking for forgiveness
I’m not proud of what I’ve done
I did the things I had to do, like any other mother’s son
None of us are perfect, so remember what you see
When the Good lord carved this crooked soul, out of a crooked tree”

Have you heard 44/876? What’d you think about it? Do you think Sting & Shaggy worked well together? Let me know in the comments below and be sure to leave your own ratings and reactions for the album.

Sting & Shaggy – 44/876 Reaction

Conclusion

At times it can be as hokey as you'd expect, crossing off a checklist of myriad Caribbean and reggae cliches, but damn if it isn't an enjoyable listen nonetheless. I can't remember the last time we've heard Sting having this much fun and their clear natural chemistry together makes for good vibes.

Fuego!!!

Don't Make Me Wait

Morning Is Coming

Waiting For The Break Of Day

Crooked Tree

3.5

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