Janelle Monáe does not lack ambitions. The singer presents her debut album as a science fiction story. She hides behind the character Cindi Mayweather, an 'android' from the year 2719. For a robot from the distant future, the singer sounds remarkably warm with her smooth soul voice. Producers Nate Wonder, Chuck Lightning and Big Boi (Outkast) provide a number of unearthly encounters with their
… daring compositions. The trio explores the farthest ends of their musical universe and found in Janelle Monáe a courageous singer who knows how to tackle all their wild ideas. The Archandroid shoots from hypnotic raps and uplifting funk compositions (Tightrope) to hopping indie pop (Faster) and even rockabilly (Come Alive). With compelling psychedelic synths and cinematic, orchestrated passages, Janelle Monáe paints a colorful vision of the future. Janelle's own near future looks bright. With this striking debut she has gained gold. Adventurous music fans should definitely give this album a listen. (GL / PdK)more