Prince

Musicology

4/5 stars
http://www.lasvegasmercur...68220.html

Perhaps the most interesting aspect of Prince's full-fledged comeback this year is how defensive he is about it. If a writer so much as suggests the Purple One has returned to form, he argues that he never went away. Technically, this is true; albums and tours have always flowed freely during his decades-long career. But since he changed his name into that unpronounceable, androgynous symbol in 1992, his music has been largely inconsistent and one-dimensional, inferring an artistic waywardness that eschewed many of the artistic elements for which he is most beloved. That streak ends with this year's Musicology, his most inspired and even work since he formed the New Power Generation in the early '90s.

The album is comparable to U2's 2000 comeback, All That You Can't Leave Behind, in that Prince didn't merely rehash his 1980s-era work, but used it as a foundation for his most potent '90s sonic experimentations. You can spot his forays into jazz in songs like "What Do U Want Me 2 Do?" and his stream-of-consciousness funk exercises in the title track. However, most of Musicology is tight and tuneful. It showcases his renowned multi-genre aesthetic through deft arrangements, shaped with strong pop instincts and colored with revelatory lyrics. In essence, Prince has replaced the jams of his post-Warner Bros. era with more structured, straightforward and ultimately simpler songs. As a result, the evocative guitar and synth melodies have returned, evidenced in "A Million Ways" and "Cinnamon Girl," the latter boasting an articulate delivery of socially charged prose reminiscent of his 1987 opus, Sign `O' the Times. In fact, much of Musicology feels familiar, from the celebratory party anthems ("Life O' the Party") to the R&B ballads ("Call My Name"). But it doesn't feel desperately nostalgic.

That said, there are few moments of genuine innovation; Prince's celebration of both identity and legacy keep his impulses in check, and that occasionally makes the songs feel a little too safe. Otherwise, it's refreshingly welcome. For the first time in a long while, the artist formerly known as the Artist sounds comfortable in his own shoes.--Mike Prevatt

Another Positive review,they just keep coming! He's going 2 make a bundle this year!

[color=red]In essence, Prince has replaced the jams of his post-Warner Bros. era with more structured, straightforward and ultimately simpler songs. As a result, the evocative guitar and synth melodies have returned, evidenced in "A Million Ways" and "Cinnamon Girl," the latter boasting an articulate delivery of socially charged prose reminiscent of his 1987 opus, Sign `O' the Times. [/color

A MILLION WAYS?

Very good comparison.

Musicology101 said:

It's the follow up to the camasutra !