When you set a high standard with your debut, it’s tough to top it. Alicia Keys should know that all too well. She’s one of the most talented singers and songwriters of our generation, and her debut album Songs in A Minor was billed by many as the launching pad for a legendary career. Since then, she’s won Grammys and solidified her spot as a superstar, but she hasn’t really made that one album or set of singles that leaves an indelible impression on future generations. The Element of Freedom is her latest attempt to build on her legacy, but somehow I feel like she hasn’t hit her stride yet.
Simply put, none of the songs really stand out to me. None of them are bad either. They’re pretty much all easy listening, and that’s the problem - Alicia Keys could make good music in her sleep. I want to hear what she can do when she gets into a zone.
Most of the album features pop-R&B, softer ballads, and even some 80s synth mixed in. Try Sleeping With A Broken Heart is one example of when it all comes together:
Somehow I feel like I’m listening to a blend of Prince, Toto, and Drake’s recent single Successful, but with more authority in the drums. Pensive and mysterious, but still upbeat. It also made my eyelids heavy, which can be good if you’re chilling at home, and bad if you’re behind the wheel.
Otherwise, there’s enough to like, but not enough to love. I feel like I’ve heard most of this before from today’s run-of-the-mill pop and R&B artists. And that’s too bad, because Alicia Keys’ talent is anything but average.
I give The Element of Freedom a 3.75 out of 5. If it was playing in a department store, I wouldn’t mind, and it’s better than Rated R. But to whom much is given, much is expected. And I expected more.
Listen to samples and download the album:
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