PIMP IT, BUT DON'T PUMP IT

By: B

It's easy to forget just how great Prince used to be. His newfound religion and recent rash of forgettable albums have left him almost entirely out of the public eye for the past decade. Musicology, Prince's latest release, can't be considered a comeback since he was never technically gone, but it still feels like it. Though Musicology isn't a modern classic, Prince delivers a groove-worthy disc with old school ideals.

In the title track, which kicks off the album, Prince sends a shout out to some obvious influences, with his words "Earth, Wind and Fire/ Hot Pants by James/ Sly's gonna take you higher." A funky blues number, it is one of the best tracks on the album while offering a preview of the overall mood.

Another highlight is "Cinnamon Girl," perhaps the catchiest track on Musicology and closest to his classic catalog. The sound is deeper than the rest of the tracks, with a layered, attractive pop hook chorus. This song will assuredly be played at a higher volume than the other songs.

Prince continues his ode to funk throughout the album, creating a slow, sultry mood. Though he doesn't place his own stamp on the genre, it is a worthy tribute. Musicology will be well received by fans of old and new R&B.

For better or worse, Musicology is ruled by its ballads, which create and maintain the general mood. While "Call My Name" is a rich and soulful love song, the other ballads are often slow and hollow with no distinction between them.

Musicology takes a decidedly more lean approach, with the focus on blues and funk. The best comparisons are his earlier "Alphabet Street" and Stevie Wonder's "Boogie on Reggae Woman." A deep-keyed guitar replaces Prince's familiar synthesizer, giving a more timeless and soulful sound compared to his 80's classics.

The minimal sound makes for a solid disc, but doesn't allow the listener to hook into any track. The older works by Prince demonstrate superior musicianship with catchy pop hooks that strive for ultimate accessibility. With Musicology, that gotta-listen-now factor is gone, leaving us with an album that, while full of quality, may have a hard time returning to our CD players after being ejected.

Overall, Musicology is simply a solid album, best suited for background play at any soirée. The lack of musical innovation and risks result in an enjoyable album made for anyone and everyone.

 Buy this album from Amazon

POP RATING: 7.5

CRITICAL RATING: 5.9

B'S RATING: 6.8

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