The R&B artist Victoria Monét released her “JAGUAR II: Deluxe” album which centers around romance and the start of a new lifestyle as a freshly single person. Adding 10 brand new tracks to the already highly awarded “JAGUAR II” album was quite a power move for Monét. The singer has been giving major teasers about the surprises she had in store for her fans all over social media. In one visual, Monét is wearing one glittery glove, representing a musical icon that made a small appearance on her long-awaited project. I wonder who that could be?
“DickAtNight”
The first track of the deluxe album is a silly yet smooth jazz introduction. Monét transports the listener on a trip to the past, making it easy to picture a foggy scene of a jazz nightclub with a shining disco ball in the middle of the dance floor. Only Monét has the power to use cheesy lyrics on top of a sexy R&B beat, a recipe most people would think would end up in disaster. But, of course, the singer makes it all work together seamlessly.
“1900’s”
The singer and songwriter has a knack for making the catchiest hooks, but this one has to take the cake. I can’t seem to get this song out of my head. It features a groovy rhythm with a past music relic. Michael Jackson’s “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’” was used as the surprise sample indicated by the bedazzled glove. An iconic surprise indeed! Jackson’s hook simply added the right amount of stardust on top of Monét’s already warm, buttery vocals.
“SOS (Sex on Sight) (feat. USHER)”
The chemistry was undeniable in this textbook-structured R&B collaboration with the one and only Usher. A slow-burning romantic melody was a perfect choice for the two iconic R&B artists. I noticed the title “SOS” is a clever double entendre. This writing style is one of Monét’s specialties which can also be seen in a lot of her hits like “Good Bye,” “Dive” and “On My Mama.”
“Love Is Stronger Than Pride”
Out of all the songs on the deluxe, I would say this one would be my favorite. A laid-back, synth focused song that just puts you at ease every listen with emotional lyrics talking about how having feelings for someone is not as easy to let go of as one might think. Monét truly knows how to turn her troubles into art, which is what only a true artist can execute.
Overall, I believe this deluxe was the cherry on top of an already fantastic run of the original album, “JAGUAR II.” I am so glad to see the now multiple Grammy-Award-winning singer finally receiving her flowers after being in the music industry for over 15 years. I hope to see Monét’s star burn bright on top of the pop charts.
4/5 stars
achaplai@ramapo.edu
Featured photo courtesy of @victoriamonet, Instagram
