Major Lazer's newest album, Free The Universe,
has seen its fair share of delay ranging from various interests in the group’s
reggae remixing capabilities and the permanent farewell to former member Dave
“Switch” Taylor. However, original DJ-producer and songwriter Diplo has finally
released the long anticipated album with a vast assortment of mainstream
collaborators. Although this sophomore album is undeniably easier on the ears
it still maintains the crazy and colorful reggae influences that made the first
album particularly special.
The album opener “You’re No Good” showcases the club centered, Jamaican dancehall vibe
with electronic new wave Philadelphia native Santigold. One of the more star
studded songs, “Bubble Butt,” oddly brings together rapper Tyga, soulful singer
Bruno Mars, and Jamaican artist Mystic. The lyrics reflect the title of the
song, so nothing substantial there, but it’s clear from the bass line and
hypnotic boardwalk backs that it will soon be spun at local clubs and parties
very soon.
On the
track “Jessica,” Major Lazer recruits Vampire Weekend’s Ezra Koenig in what can
only be described as a hazy, laidback reggae focused song. Koenig’s vocals are
predominant, spot on and quite unorthodox, but they work well at blending with
the bleary melodies. The good time feelings and raging party themes often
incorporated in Major Lazer’s music was clearly attempted in “Jah No Partial.” Admittedly the song sounds way overblown with a dub-step persona through headphones
and Johnny Osbourne’s vocals are essentially masked away, but it may be
somewhat better in a live setting.
Other
notable artists that appear on the album include the slightly forgotten artist
of “It Wasn’t Me,” Shaggy. Wyclef Jean also lends his distinct vocals on “Reach for the Stars,” while Jamaican artist Busy Signal makes an appearance
on the track called “Watch Out For This (Bumaye).”
On one hand, Free The Universe encapsulates
artfully psychedelic club pounding tracks with reggae vocals. On the other hand, this album strays towards a more pop influenced dance floor album while losing
distinct characteristics that may be associated with the loss of long time
collaborator Switch. Regardless of the change in direction. Diplo has made it
evident that the Major Lazer tracks are targeted towards EDM enthusiasts,
nightclub partygoers and reggae experimentalists.
Grade: B-
Somewhere in this review the Andy C / UKF remix of 'Get Free' needed to be name-dropped. You're welcome world.