The most-anticipated album, “Anti-Everything,” from the Barbadian sensation Rihanna has finally dropped after six months of waiting. However, it is not what the public expected. Even though it’s nothing like her previous, more fierce albums, it has sold 124,000 copies in a single week, making it her second Number one album. Rihanna has always been true to her roots and is consistently involved in the Barbados community, but in “Anti-Everything,” her Caribbean culture inspires a majority of the album.

The songs on the album have a very old school feel and are much slower and softer than how Rihanna usually expresses herself.

The album’s single “Work,” featuring Drake, is more upbeat with a reggae rhythm. Not only are the softer beats a salute to her Caribbean roots, but there is also a connection in the album’s video, “Anti-Diary.” The crown of Neptune is featured in the video along with sandy beaches and even a map of Barbados itself. Rihanna is taking an artistic approach, recognizing and celebrating her culture. Rihanna recognizes herself and her values in this album, a smart move in this competitive industry.

Rihanna’s album name itself also raises the question was the album called “Anti” because it is not what we were expecting from Rihanna?

Rihanna has crafted an album that is trying not to fit in with or conform to the expectations of today. Listeners are confused, but the confusion and abnormality was the goal. The songs range from “Consideration,” an old school hip-hop style, to “Love on the Brain” played on a slow guitar and even “Close to You” performed on a soft piano.

Her album offers a wide range of art, expression and musical approaches. Her songs have variety and give fans another look into the appreciation of her culture in an artistic form. This is a great job on Rihanna’s part. She has used her platform perfectly to convey her culture to people who may not be familiar with it. Audiences will continue to analyze her message and further appreciate Rihanna’s music.

Rating: 4 out of 5