♫ Janelle Monáe – Cold War
Kansas City native Janelle Monáe originally planned to pursue a career on Broadway but instead began focusing on music. By 2003, she had moved to Atlanta and recorded a self-released album, The Audition, which introduced the whole Metropolis/Cindi Mayweather concept.
Four years later, Sean “Diddy” Combs signed the singer/songwriter to his Bad Boy label, offering an official release for her Suite I of IV: The Chase EP which earned Janelle a Grammy nomination for Best Urban/Alternative Performance for her single “Many Moons”.
Janelle disclosed last year of the deal with Diddy (which he considers one of the most important signings of his career) that it’s not the traditional label-artist kind; it’s more of a partnership. And it seems to be a fruitful one with the release of her first full-length album, The ArchAndroid (pronounced Ark Android), hitting stores today.
Executive-produced by Nate Wonder, Chuck Lightning, Janelle and Diddy with co-executive production from Big Boi, The ArchAndroid is one of the most impressive debuts in recent years, dare I say on par with The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. A fusion of funk, pop, rock and soul, the album marks the next chapter for the pompadoured performer’s alter-ego, Cindi Mayweather from the planet Metropolis, creating what she considers an “emotion picture”.
“The ArchAndroid is very inspiring for me. We wanted the story to be very compelling, but we also wanted to make sure that the journey we’re taking people on makes them feel like they’re watching one big emotion picture,” Janelle explains. The 18-track, 70-minute soundtrack, which is parts two and three of a four-part series, is near perfection with its lush instrumentation and pulsating beats, not to mention the varying vocal ranges of the album’s star. Imagine it: a “singer” who can actually sing.
Following the orchestral “Suite II Overture”, the album kicks off with the Afrobeat-influenced “Dance or Die” with Saul Williams. The 60′s psychedelic rock-inspired “Sir Greendown” flows seamlessly (much like the entire Suite II) into the next track, “Cold War” followed by the first single, “Tight Rope” featuring Big Boi, which Janelle reminds us “When you get elevated/ they love it or they hate/ keep dancing on them haters.” And that’s exactly what is done in the single’s video, which she explained is a tutorial on how to make it through life without going insane.
The juxtaposition of “Oh Maker”, fashioned in the styling of contemplative thought, with the beat-driven and scream-filled “Come Alive (The War of the Roses)” leads to the Woodstock-influenced “Mushrooms & Roses”, marking the end of Suite II. Another overture introduces us to “Neon Valley Street”, a smooth, modern R&B track, followed by “Make the Bus”, perhaps the album’s lowest point with indie pop/rock band Of Montreal. While the album’s final track, the Shirley Bassey-esque “BaBopByeYa”, is nearly nine minutes long, you won’t want it to end. Unfortunately, Cindi Mayweather Janelle Monáe belts out the last words: “I must go.” If you must…
Just promise us Suite IV will be as epic, magical and creative as The ArchAndroid.
The BEST album released in years. That’s all.
She sounds like Florence and the Machine….a British band
Her voice aint no different
Amazing album.
Monae has been around a lot longer than Florence & The Machine, and sounds nothing like them. Only now people are getting to know about this superstar, I wish her the best!
This is without a doubt the best album of the year so far by a woman far more talented than half the musical acts out now! Her creativity knows no bounds. The girl is amazing I hope this does well. It has already received critical acclaim.
She might be ne of those genius artists, beyond the talented ones, but those ppl are often misunderstood and overlooked. U really gotta enter into her world. Very creative, I will listen to the album even though its not really my type. But please keep Lauryn out of this. That’s one of the best reviews in CL although it’s still ‘tryin way too hard’, much better than the one who is usually responsible for music reviews.
I really like “Cold War” that tune is dope. But not feeling the rest, I’m going to have to give another listen. I wish she would wear something else other than a damn tux its getting really tired, contrived and predicatable.
This is really good, I hope she gets the success she deserves.
@ SUPUU i beg to differ!!! Florence sounds nothing like Janelle! She has a completely different tone and style.
I’m still waiting for this album to grow on me, but i still love her as an artist.
I didn’t realise she was going make a career on broadway, she should still go for it! She’d make a brilliant actress!
Album is amazing that is all. Anyone who says different just needs to give their ears time to adjust to some real music, real instruments, meaningful lyrics, etc. Congrats Ms. Monae
I love this song,I like her as an artist
Best album to come out in YEARS.
Definitely this should win for album of the year in R&B as well as in theboverall category as well as best new artist.
She is a real force to be reckoned with.
My favorite new artist.
WOW!!! This album is beyond epic. Her style, her lyrics, her sound is beyond brillant. I totally agree with this aforesaid album review. I have not heard an artist this dope since Lauryn Hill. I definately think NOT EVERYONE will understand how magical this album is, and they might just write it off… However, those of us who know REAL MUSIC know that this album is the best since Lauryn Hill “The Miseducation”.
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She’s dope as hell!!!
SO INCREDIBLE.
The BEST ALBUM SINCE “THE MISEDUCATION”!!!
This album is giving me everything I need and then some. Can’t believe how great it is. THANK YOU!!!
PURE DOPENESS!! YES, this gives me life all day.
Janelle Monae music is fantastic. I wish she would have put The Audition out everywhere because people from other different states want that album… and I’m very proud of her for not working w/ Diddy. Monae keep it coming.. :^)
I’ve said it b 4 that this music is very refreshing. It has a french-type musical feel. Also very euro and technic.
It reminds me of early 70′s disco too. I plan to get to the physical album later today.
Why is this photo not retouched? She still looks good, though.
Cindi Mayweather is simply Supernatural….Oh’ maker is my song of the summer
Not interested enuff to “click.”
By far, the one of the best albums I’ve heard in YEARS. WOW. Just incredible! Just finished listening to the entire thing and all I want to do is start over from the beginning.
ppl act like the miseducation was the only good album in years but there have been great albums before and after that. it’s not that serious. never understood why black people act like that album was the be all, end all of everything in this world. and i love janelle. next topic
Luv the Album Art. Illuminati all over it!
Personally, I love the album. It met all my expectations and then some. It’s obvious that she had a vision and she went for it. Whether or not others see it, that’s up to them. I dig it. It’s different, it’s not something you hear everyday and it’s clever. I love Neon Gumbo and for her true fans, they would know that that song is the ending of Many Moons scrambled up into something neat. You just got to listen to it. I also love Faster, and Neon Valley Street and Wonderland. Hell, I love the whole album. So far, it’s my personal favorite for the summer. Can’t wait to play it in the car for my upcoming road trip this coming Thursday. So excited!
This album is epic. One of the best in years!!!! I friggin’ love it!! the album and some of the singles better be nominated for Grammys next year!
I guess I’m the only one who finds her annoying and doesn’t like her music.
I’m going to listen to the rest of the album online to see if there is anything I might like because I’m not seeing the hype with her ..
Dance or Die – decent (just the fast rapping part)
Locked Inside – interesting ..
Now I really don’t see the hype .. wow.
Knew I wouldn’t like it.
This album is amazing. From beginning to end. The production- very soundtracky. Her sound, a mixture of a Lauryn Hill meets Alicia Keys. It’s very well orchestrated. Very different and refreshing. Plus, the overall message of the songs are great. THIS is good music! =D Go support Janelle Monae. She’s truly a unique act.
http://WWW.ULISESWORLD.COM
“Jungle”- sexy, tribal, exotic summer anthem. Don’t click on the link! You’re not ready for it, or are u?
I think she feeling that Frankie Lyman vibe a lil too much
yep – beyonce better watch out- lol
This album is PERFECTION!
I dare to say it’s as good or even better than Miseducation.. And if it doesn’t get a Grammy, I don’t know what’s going on in the music bizz.. cuz I don’t think another artist will come better than this..
People who are not feeling this, I bet they’re feelin all Beyonce and Aguilera’s shit.. Go listen to you manufacturated stuff and leave this masterpiece!
This album is amazing. Every song is a different genre. Every song is amazing. I can def see the movie right before my eyes.
Yeaaaaaah just listened again and I really do not like what I hear – apart from Cold War. I too find this chick really annoying and over hyped, wish her all the best though (kinda)
….Well maybe I need to hear the rest of the album…
…..She has a GREATTTTTTT voice to me, but well Im gonna end it there.
…..”Cold War” is genius
……As far as the rest of the songs…NOT SO MUCH.
……But Im trying to support my sisters, so I will be buying.
This is a heaven sent CD! I can’t stop listening to it! One of the best albums in the last 10 years! People are so tried of the snap, electro sound! Janelle is going to win a Grammy for the album hands down! I bet this will get album of the year! I love inspired art deco direction is taking! I had been feeling that she was going to bring something with Art Deco associated to the game! BECOOL, IT BETTER GET A GRAMMY! If not I will be expressing my displeasure to how they judge more on looks, than actual talent!
So happy to see a new sound coming to music now! This is the music decade! So proud of Janelle Monae for actually being true to herself! 2010 is the year of music!
Welcome my long as friend! (Music)!!!!!!!!
The best album since……??? Why doesn’t American agree? She hasn’t even sold 500 ringtones.
@dude in h town — wait did you hear the album or not? Cause if not, you definitely should. It will change your mind.
Love it! First album in a looong time where I actually feel inspired to buy the album instead of just stealing it lol.
LOOK UP THE 1928 MOVIE THE METROPOLIS,(IT WAS A BOUT A MAD SCIENTIST, CREATING A NATION OF SLAVES , CREATING THE PERFECT WOMEN LOOK UP WHAT A ANDROID MEANS, HER ALBUM COVER AND THE CITY OF BABYLON THAT’S HER CROWN WITH THE PRYMAID EARRINGS PROMOTING THE FREEMASONS. THIS IS DEMONIC AND FOLKS DON’T KNOW WHAT WALKING THE TIGHT ROPE MEANS. SHE LOOKS LIKE A ROBOT LIKE HER OLD ALBUM COVER. WAKE UP TO THE MUSIC INDUSTRY AGENDA. THEIR MAKING YOU COMFORTABLE WITH SEEING SHIT LIKE THAT SO THE CAN CONTINUE TO PULL THE WOOL OF YOUR HEAD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! SHE IS A PUPPET LIKE THE REST..WAKE UP!!!!!!!!!!
P.S FOR THOSE WHO CONTINUE TO DENOUNCE WHATS GOING ON IN THE WORLD WILL SOON SEE ALL THE ILLUMINATI STUFF IS BEFORE YOUR EYES, THEY BEING WAITING THOUSANDS OF YEARS FOR THIS MOMENT WORLD DOMINATION , NEW WORLD ORDER, AND MARTIAL LAW WHICH WILL SOON BE PASSED IN CHICAGO, THE END IS NEAR!!!
Got it. Love it. One of the classics.
It was real good, I liked 2/3 of the album. I might buy. Only didn’t like maybe 4 songs. the other 16 are real epic or just good.
the other 14* I meant.
CL, if yall post ONE MORE THING about this weird ass hoe, imma flip..
I feel like I’m the only one that doesn’t not fully like this album. I love Janelle and the Suites she released leading up to the album but I just feel like it wasn’t up to par. Not gonna lie it’s not terrible but I am disappointed. Also it is no where near Miseducation of Lauryn Hill so it’s shocking that someone would even compare it to that. I guess I have to listen to it again to hear what everyone else is hearing but upon first listen I was not pleased.
P.S. Follow me @khiacouture
Queen . please hang it up! Why does everything connected to a robot, has to be connected with the Illuminati ? Can a person actually just have an ideal that is not involved with devil worship! I do see your point of view, but to me she is trying not to be just a new face, she wants to make a legacy for herself! If she is about setting a brainwashed agenda that truth of itself will surface somehow, but for now I see a person that is ready to help shape the music world like nothing before!
Let’s support real talent for once! Let’s stop being so damn cynical all the time!
Damn!!!!!!
LMAOOO This girl’s team should be ashamed of herself. They making all these comments saying its the best album since this that and the third. If it was that good she would be one of the top artists out. Lauryn Hill actually had her mainstream success in the 90s. Good music can and does get recognized. This girl’s music is alright to me. Her style is very illuminati. Commenter 38—looks like most of the comments in the first 15.
Fantastic album!!!
i definitely agree #49′s comment…very illuminati!!! & her music is alright
The ArchAndroid is truly a blessed album!
I purchased my copy and absolutely love every song.
Pure Genius! Best Album In YEARS!
Lmmfao @ 46!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! hahaha!
But back to Janelle….I didn’t realize that she had an alter ego – while creating this or her previous album. That is very interesting. With that being said, I actually loved “Tightrope” and I am by far, not a huge Janelle fan at all. I thought her music was very weird and contrived, I haven’t listened to the entire album, however, I did listen to the above track “Coldwar” and it was decent. I wasn’t like blown away like some of the other posters, but, judging by these comments I’d say Janelle will have no trouble moving at 400k units of her album. That’s assuming that all 51 comments aren’t coming from her team
I swear if one more person mentions the f’n illuminati im going to go crazy!!!
i swear an artist cannot do ANYTHING without some crazy person shouting illuminati/freemasons
the sad part about it is that the folks who are acting like they know all there is to know about the illuminati got there ideas from something that is also controlled by the “illuminati” – the internet
I LOVE THIS
TO ALL THOSE PEOPLE SICK OF HEARING THE TRUTH O WELL. IM SICK OF PEOPLE BEING BRAINWASHED BY THE INDUSTRY WHICH USES MK ULTRA MIND CONTROL ON IT’S ARTIST SO THEY CAN BRAINWASH YOU. GROW UP LEARN THE TRUTH
SHE IS PROMOTING BABYLON, GO FIND THE TRUTH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
TO A BROTHA WITH THE NAME BIONIC WHOM THINK THEIR MACHINES WE ARE HUMAN….YOU CAN BE DICK OF THEE TRUTH ALL YOU WANT.YOU CANT CONTROL THE REAL GO TO VIGILANT CITIZEN.COM
This is not a good listen. Must be a promotions team on here hyping all the good comments. She is not on any record charts, etc. Never heard of her until Diddy’s Making the Band fiasco shows when he had the interns wait on her at a small NY venue. I only remembered her because she looked and sounded crazy.
why don’t some of you fools that think all this shit is so “cool” go to theindustryexpose.com and watch some videos. Bet you won’t think it’s very cool after that