Selena Gomez has shed her Disney-star skin with her latest release, “Revival.”
A turn from her dance-oriented 2013 release, “Stars Dance,” “Revival” is filled with sensual and soft beats that create an overall lovely atmosphere. Unlike Gomez’s previous albums, “Revival” may not be suitable for all ages.
The album has a personal narrative that flows through the melodies of each song. She begins the album with a short-spoken verse about not knowing what the future has in store for her. Though an odd choice, it transports the listener into a calm and serene song about her “rebirth.”
Gomez’s lyrics are filled to the brim with emotion and sensuality that will have fans of the former wizard of Waverly Place double taking. With lyrics like “all I want is your body heat” and “can’t keep my hands to myself. I mean I could but why would I want to,” loyal Selenators are seeing a new side to the artist. A majority of the songs on the album are written about past relationships and the effects they had on her, while a few are about self-empowerment. Gomez lets the audience into her head and opens up on a whole new level.
Gomez’s voice reaches heights and several lows never heard on her previous albums.
The album’s lead single, “Good For You,” was the first glimpse at the singer’s new, sultry sound. Described as “sexy” by many, the song has a mellow beat with the occasional heavy-hitting bass. There are two versions of the song. One features rapper A$AP Rocky’s verse accompanied by an even heavier bass and a remix of tempos. The other is purely Gomez and a great representation of what the rest of the album offers.
“Me & The Rhythm,” a minority among the slower-paced ballads, gives the album the energy it needs to keep it moving. This paired with the Shakira-esque “Body Heat” and the fast tempo of “Survivors,” Gomez gives her fans a couple of great dance tracks.
The wild beat takes over in “Rise,” Gomez’s ballad about overcoming obstacles. A late night walk on the beach kind of song, “Rise” has a steady beat paired with Gomez’s fluctuating vocals which create a melody. Once again, Gomez speaks another verse about being “lifted up.”
“Same Old Love,” a bouncy yet generic beat, is catchy and reminiscent of Gomez’s earlier works. Once you listen, it’s stuck in your head for hours. Not that you’ll mind.
Filled with heartache and outright provocative lyrics, “Revival” is a must-listen to for a fan of the synth-pop subgenre, devoted Selenator or just about anyone.
Rating:4 out of 5
