Grade: 82/100
It’s the season of the Scorpio right now, but that means nothing to pop singer Tinashe, who released her debut album “Aquarius.”
Naming the album after her zodiac sign, the California native makes a strong effort with 18 well-crafted songs by some of the most notable producers in this generation such as DJ Mustard, Boi-1da and Mike WiLL Made It.
Any song on this record could be used as a radio single. Somehow, Tinashe has found a hit-making formula and capitalized on it. The radio has recently been set ablaze by her lead single “2 On,” and the thought of her being a one-hit wonder began to circulate. The album’s title track, “Aquarius,” and others such as “Feels Like Vegas” and “Wildfire” shatter all doubts about her talents.
Minimal features from artists such as Future, A$AP Rocky and ScHoolboy Q fail to make a real impact on the album, but it does allow the songstress to further flaunt her melodic vocal range.
There is a lack of lyrical depth on the songs of “Aquarius” that could certainly assist the record, but the tracks flow together effortlessly, which is rare for this generation of pop music.
Faint traces of Aaliyah are felt throughout the album, especially in “Bed,” which is always a good thing to have for a vocalist. In an area as crowded as the female pop artist category, having that comparison can only boost her chances of success. Artists such as Jhene Aiko, Lorde and FKA Twigs now have another woman competing for the crown of the new pop scene.
Tinashe is confident in her vocal ability as expressed in “Cold Sweat” and she should be. The 21-year-old is drawing comparisons to some of the most popular vocalists in this generation such as Rhianna for her cocky-yet-cool demeanor.
It is said that Aquariuses are often adventurous and very free spirited. Tinashe explores the fine line between pop and R&B music while clearly having fun in the process. The large amount of work that went into “Aquarius” should be appreciated by listeners. The bar Tinashe has set for herself may come back to haunt her in the long run, but for now, the success she receives is well deserved.