Chris Brown new album X was dropped on Tuesday after countless delays that almost derailed the entire project. According to early first week sales projections, Brown is expected to reach close to 135,000 units.
If these predictions are confirmed, X will land at number 2 on the Billboard 200 chart next week, right after Barbra Streisand’s Partners. Brown’s previous album Fortune that was put out in June 2012, sold 135,000 copies in the first seven days following its release. It went on to get certified gold (+500,000) in the United States.
So, is Chris Brown new album X good?
Reviews for Brown’s new album have been mixed at best. Most experts continue to judge the crooner’s work in light of the 2009 assault on then-girlfriend Rihanna. It’s safe to say that the Virginia native has not always been a shining example of redemption, he violated his probation multiple times, spent few months in jail and was only released in June. Is it time to move on and split the artist from the man?
Brown seems to signal that he has had enough and is ready to move on. On the Diplo-produced title track, he says forcefully “I swear to God I’m moving on.” On X, the “Turn Up the Music” singer also tries to pay homage to artists who have always inspired him.
“New Flame” featuring Usher and Rick Ross took a page from the “Burn” singer’s 2008 hit “Love in This Club.” The result is pretty solid.
Brown has always listed Michael Jackson and R. Kelly as his biggest musical influences. Jackson’s spirit can be heard on the excellent “Add Me In.”
Kelly joins the R&B prince on “Drown In It” for a swim that will not please everyone, but Brown is at a point in his career where he does what he wants musically regardless of the optics. The song is a decent album filler.
Trey Songz joins his friend on “Songs on 12 Play” for an amazing tribute to the king of R&B. The track is playful and has some of the ingredients that made Kells a champion in his field.
The best songs on X have already been released as singles. “Loyal” might not be a romantic piece but is really hard to resist. “Fine China” is one of the most interesting tracks in Brown’s career. “Love More” is quite enticing with a Nicki Minaj in top form. Those three songs along with “Lost in Ya Love” are only featured on the deluxe version of X.
For listeners looking for novelty, the Kendrick Lamar-assisted number “Autumn Leaves” is very strong and full of depth. “Time for Love” is also solid proving that Brown still has potential to grow artistically.
Overall, Chris Brown new album X is a pretty solid effort once the listener puts the personal things aside. What Brown lacks in vocals, he compensate in enthusiasm and hard work. Those who don’t like the man will have a hard time finding anything they like here, but others will see an artist, who loves music and hopes it can save him from his demons.
