Justin Bieber is lacking. As someone who would refer to herself as a “Belieber”, I am underwhelmed by Justin Bieber’s musical performance in “SWAG II.” Of course, anything he releases exhibits talent and a seriously impressive set of vocals, but this album is especially subpar. I was expecting to come away from “SWAG II” with multiple great songs to add to my personal playlist, but it was hard for me to even find two that I truly like– or at least like enough to even add to the once-packed Justin Bieber playlist.
“SWAG II” is a new type of sound for Bieber, and maybe that is why it did not land super well for me and many music critics. The last album he released four years ago, “Justice,” was 16 tracks and packed full of hits. Since then, he has hired a new producing team, changing up his “vibe and sound.” This album could have been really good – a cool R&B and indie rock-ish album with collaborators Mk.gee and Dijon adding hints of Michael Jackson elements and a retro sound. But to me, it sounds tired and unfinished, and the catchy Michael Jackson sound they were trying to capture is not heard. And I’m not the only one who thinks this way. Renowned music magazine Rolling Stone called “SWAG II,” “safe” – not what an artist wants to hear about an album that’s supposed to sound fresh and innovative.
It’s not all mediocrity, though; there is one song I do actually really enjoy. The opening song, “SPEED DEMON”, has to be my favorite from this album. It’s upbeat and fun as Justin Bieber mocks his haters singing, “checking these chickens” and “Is it clocking to you?” (A reference to the infamous video that has spread around the internet nonstop for the past few months). He keeps things playful with these funky lyrics, freeing the song from the serious or preachy undertone heard on the rest of the album.
Additionally, I like one other song: “EYE CANDY,” the eighth track on the album. This song seems to serve as a tribute to his wife, Hailey Bieber. Although it has some confusing lyrics, we see Bieber returning to his roots of love songs infused with an easily danceable tempo. Also, I argue that this song isn’t “tired” and “safe” like the others in the album; it easily stands out from the rest.
In all honesty, although I did not love this album, I do support artists trying something new, even if it doesn't land. One could argue that this album is more raw and faithful to his artistic ambitions, as opposed to forced crowd-pleasing songs that attract the widest audience possible. If that is the case, then maybe he should keep creating music like this? After all, he is already a billionaire; he doesn’t need every album to do extremely well. At this point, he is at liberty to create whatever music he wants and doesn’t have to surrender to commercial pressure – a true artist. So even though my current impression is underwhelming, I will continue listening to “SWAG II” and try to find other songs that I like hidden within the other ... 40 tracks.
