G-Magazine Now

ALBUM REVIEW: Timbaland's "Shock Value II"

 

Hip-hop-turned-electro pop rapper/producer Timbaland abandoned his humbly rich beginnings in hip-hop and has decided to travel fully into the world of pop music with his newly released Shock Value II.  Sufficiently, that may generate enough shock value; however, the barrage of collaborations working tremendously well as an album collective is a better shock.  Almost every track can stand alone as a hit-making single being pop friendly enough for radio without sounding too simple.

Since working with rock bands worked in the previous Shock Value album, Timbo enlists Daughtry, One Republic [again], The Fray and Chad Kroger (of Nickelback).  However, who would have put money on a track with Timbo and corny teen country-pop star Miley Cyrus sounding very good?  Here is another shocker; R&B singer Brandy, a.k.a. Bran' Nu, can rhyme her tail off.  Check out "Meet In The Middle" and "Symphony."

 

Play "Meet In Tha Middle" (Feat. Bran' Nu)

Play "Ease Off The Liquor"

Play "We Belong To Music" (featuring Miley Cyrus)

Play "The One I Love" (featuring Keri Hilson & D.O.E.)

Play "Carry Out" (featuring Justin Timberlake)

Play "Lose Control" (featuring JoJo)

Play "Can You Feel It" (Feat. Esthero & Sebastian)

Play "Long Way Down" (featuring Daughtry)

R&B Diva Brandy Goes Hard With Her Rap Alter-Ego "Bran'Nu"

In 2009, R&B icon Brandy has proven to be one of the most talented songbirds of today.  With two powerful a capella renditions of soul music classics YouTube, the buzz and anticipation grew immensely for a real comeback for this R&B starlet.  You may not believe this, but Brandy's rap skills are as strong as her vocals.  She delivers severe rap flows sounding reminiscent of hip-hop divas Eve and Lil' Kim during their best years on Timbaland's new Shock Value II album.  Are you doubtful?  Check out the tunes "Meet In The Middle" and "Play."

Play "Meet In Tha Middle" (w/ Timbaland)

 

"Play" Symphony (w/ Timbaland, Attitude & D.O.E.)

 

Will she incorporate her masterful hidden talent on her upcoming album?

After hearing Brandy's sharp skills as a R&B singing rapper, divas who tried years ago such as Beyonce, Monica, Mary J. Blige and Rihanna can forget about following suit.  It is a wrap for them.  Even Lil' Kim, Eve, Trina and Foxy Brown can fall back because Brandy shut that game down.