I found this review on Planet Janet. (Janet stans being nice to Beyonce :dead: )
Quote:
This is easily the best album in the past couple of years. Everything about the album is consistent. Sonically, it's left field and that element is consistent throughout the album. "4" effortlessly combines the stylings of 80s and 90s pop, with hints of gospel, various genres within rock, R&B, and 70s soul. The vocals are raw with more gymnastics and acrobatics than before. She brought what she does live into the studio and it helps to explain why she has 8 vocal Grammys and why you all will deal. Lyrically, it's more mature than previous efforts. You can tell there's more emphasis on the music with no regard to whether or not the album is commercial and will sell. This is the album that will propel Beyonce to a new level, leaving all of her peers behind wondering why all their #1s haven't translated into Grammy wins or critical praise. "4" is Beyonce's "Rhythm Nation 1814" or "Music Of My Mind", the album that artistically takes them to the next level. The album where an artist becomes an artist by stepping out of their comfort zone and taking a risk musically. Unconventionality takes the driver's seat, and Beyonce is officially on some other ****. It makes you wonder where she's gonna go with her next record, and what she's going to talk about. The music is more gritty, and less shy than on her previous albums. There isn't any more of the "girl-next-door" type lyrics and that's one of the obvious signs of artistic growth.
6. Yes - Musiq Soulchild
5. I'm On One - DJ Khaled feat. Drake, Rick Ross & Lil Wayne
4. Real - Vybz Kartel
3. F in Fresh - Nebula 868 2. 1+1 - Beyonce
1. Summer Time - Vybz Kartel