Chris Brown’s “X” marks the spot

“X” Album Review

Opening as the #1 album on iTunes, after numerous delays due to Chris’ legal troubles, his long anticipated album “X” has finally been released. Breezy’s sixth studio album is an enjoyable mix of club hits, mainstream rapping, and electro R&B. Spending over 100 days in jail has obviously changed Chris, as apparent in some of his lyrics, hinting at his post-jail perspective. Though his sound has undoubtedly matured, some of his songs still lack real emotional depth, portraying sex and relationships as purely transactional behaviors. The deluxe version of the album is jam packed with 21 songs featuring a slew of big-name artists and producers such as Lil Wayne, Tyga, Usher, Trey Songz, R. Kelly, Akon, Kendrick Lamar, Diplo, Ariana Grande, Nicki Minaj and Jhene Aiko, to name a few.

Tracks worth checking out: 

X  (produced by Diplo) – Title track is a strong opener from the album. Its schizophrenic beat, produced by Diplo, intertwined with Chris’s beautifully sung sorrows leaves you wanting more.

Loyal (feat. Lil Wayne & Tyga) – This Top 10 summer smash is an obvious highlight of the album. The anthem has the right feel-good beats and catchy hooks that make for a hit.

New Flame (feat. Usher & Rick Ross) – A few seconds into this song and I was already indulged into the bassline. That combined with Breezy’s and Ushers soothing vocals makes this track one of, if not the best off the album.

Songs on 12 Play (feat. Trey Songz) – This slower electro R&B song is one of the better collaborations off of “X”. Based off R. Kellys 1993 debut album 12 Play, this song will definitely get you in the mood.

Drown In It (feat. R. Kelly) – Both of these womanizers make for an ideal lovemaking track. While their vocals may work well together, their lyrical styles lack real substance.

Came To Do (feat. Akon) – This song hooks you in right from the start. Produced by Nic Nac, the same guy who produced “Loyal”, at first listen you know this song is destined to be a club banger. Akon’s verse adds the perfect extra flavor to this upbeat, feel good song.

Autumn Leaves (feat. Kendrick Lamar) – This song wasn’t intended for the club, but it still surely has hit potential. One of the more lyrically significant songs, Brown compares a lover’s departure to a summers end is this somber track.

Don’t Be Gone To Long (feat. Ariana Grande) – One of the best new songs off the album is this unexpected collaboration between two of R&B’s best. Expected to be the next single off the album, I anticipate this dance collaboration to creep up the charts.

Body Shots – This EDM hit is all about Chris getting down and dirty. His desire to be with women and drinking is seemingly strong.

Drunk Texting (feat. Jhene Aiko) – You already know this pair will make for an R&B smash. A ordinarily generic song about Brown discovering an ex’s texts is greatly enhanced by Jhene’s beautiful singing abilities.

Get a sneak peek of Chris Brown’s “X” this Sunday night at 8pm EST on the New Release Show. You’ll hear it first exclusively on Philadelphia’s #1 College Radio Station, WHIP.

By: Kevin Schoenfeld