Anti
Rihanna
Roc Nation Records
Released: Jan. 28th, 2016

Anti, Barbadian singer Rihanna’s eighth studio album, consists mostly of pop and R&B music. Anti differs from her previous works, as the album leaves behind her club and dance past for an R&B pop album. The album has a sort of old school sound, supported by synths. Anti touches heavily on Rihanna’s relationships and the struggles that she has had with them.

In “Kiss It Better,” we hear a ballad with ’80s and ’90s influence. The song focuses on what seems to be a toxic relationship she knows she shouldn’t continue, but can’t get herself to stop it.  In “James Joint,” we hear a groovy soul inspired song about her wishing to be with somebody. My personal favorite song off of the album is her cover of Tame Impala’s “New Person, Same Old Mistakes,” which was originally sung by Kevin Parker. She does an excellent job of singing the song, and her voice sort of makes it better.

The audience best suited for this album would be fans of pop and R&B music. Overall, the album is a great release from Rihanna, and I’m excited to see where she goes with it.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars