The latest effort from Erykah Badu, New Amerykah: Part 1 (4th World War), hit record stores this week. The record is part 1 of a supposed 3 part trilogy concept Badu has been developing, in which she promises to take on sociopolitical issues like poverty and 9/11.
With Madlib and Sa-Ra Creative Partners behind the boards, Badu has found a new place to dwell, shedding the conventional VH1 neo-soul format she helped define, for a more dark and eccentric, stream-of-consciousness vibe. Badu's quirky vocals fit nicely among the headnodding funky jumble of sounds - she certainly doesn't sound out of place. However, the starkness and headiness of many of the compositions make this record a much harder listen than her previous ones.
I've only listened to this record once, but so far I'm really feelin it. Its very much a step in the new direction soul has been taking - a little less produced a little more contemplative. On my first listen, I couldn't help but think of the work Georgia Anne Muldrow has produced in recent years for Stones Throw. I started to think that it may sound a little too derivative, but Muldrow's guest appearance on "Master Teacher" dispels this notion.
Badu has really shed some skin on this record. Beyond the 9th wonder produced "Honey" (which I like), Amerykah really has no pop-friendly chart-topping singles - no sign of VH1 at all on this one. In fact, "Honey" is labeled on the record as "bonus track".
She's left behind the soulquarian grooves for smoked-out psychedelics. I really admire the way she challenges her fans to follow her creative impulses. This record is incredibly daring and still very much Badu. I'm on board. Ok, its safe now go buy this record.
Critics Review: Feelin it.
Erykah Badu - Telephone
Erykah Badu - Honey
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