It’s feeding time, and Mother Monster isn’t holding any reservations with her servings on “Artpop.” The album is a roller coaster of its own making. The first song, “Auro” opens the album, melding together electronica and banjo music, transforming it into an instant club classic. When Gaga pseudo screams “Do you want to see me naked, lover?” at the half–way point, you can’t help but answer with a resounding yes; just like in “Venus” and “G.U.Y” when she poses similar questions.
While the first few songs on the album are traditional Gaga, “Jewels & Drugs,” is a departure from her normally formulaic dance hits. The song is an artistic risk, and one that pays off, as it is possibly the most realized song on the album. Featuring TI, Too $hort and Twista, “Jewels N' Drugs” is Gaga’s first collab with a hip-hop artist since 2008. “Do What U Want,” featuring R. Kelly, is an electronic atmospheric piece that benefits from the smooth singing of its R&B feature.
“Swine” and “Donatella” stick out in the lackluster second half of the album. Both have a very distinct EDM feel to them, with “Donatella” incorporating slower parts to highlight Gaga’s strong vocals. The album ends with the hit single “Applause,” which is quite apt because the album deserves just that. While staying true to her traditional music, she found a way to take risks and offer a few unexpected songs.
Grade: B+
99-Cent Download: “Jewels N’ Drugs”
Sounds Best When: You want to create a gay club atmosphere without going to a gay club
