R&B singer and songwriter Usher Raymond released his ninth studio album “Coming Home” on Friday, Feb. 9, two days before his half-time performance at the 2024 Super Bowl. “Coming Home,” marks Usher’s return to the music industry after his eight-year hiatus following his 2016 album “Hard II Love.” In an interview with USA Today, Usher claimed that returning home from his busy schedule for the 100-show Las Vegas Residency inspired him to reconnect with his familiar style of R&B, while stepping out of his comfort zone.
The 20-track album, clocking in at one hour and six minutes, debuts with “Coming Home,” a collaboration with Nigerian artist Burna Boy. Though the track explores a new Afro-fusion ambiance which later returns in the album with track ten “Ruin” featuring Pheelz, it gives a dull impression as the lengthy verses lead to a rather disappointing chorus. The title track is followed by “‘Good Good”’ featuring 21 Savage and Summer Walker, refreshing listeners from the derogatory nature of most R&B and rap songs today. The track speaks of a relationship ending on good terms, as Usher says in the chorus “Probably ain’t gettin’ back together / But that don’t mean that I can’t wish you better.” The layering of the song is eloquent, with nostalgic 2000s R&B beats mixed with hip-hop, as well as all three singers complementing each other’s vocals beautifully.
Throughout the album, Usher continues to offer a variety of ranges, with track twelve “On the Side” meeting original and groovy R&B vibes and track nine “Stone Kold Freak” delivering a more pop-focused production. However, a few songs misfired, one being track four “Cold-Blooded” which fails to produce an exciting listening experience, as the anticipation overshadows the outcome resulting in a monotonous tune. Additionally, “A-Town Girl,” sampled from Billy Joel’s 1983 hit “Uptown Girl,” was a push to combine R&B and hip-hop norms, making the song feel forced.
However, Usher regains his momentum near the end of the album, as track 17 “Margiela” has unique music production through its contrast of staccato beats and seamless vocals. Along with that, track 19 “One of Them Ones” had a gradual and smooth build in Usher’s pitch and layering of beats. Concluding the album, the Usher remix “Standing Next to You” with Jung Kook leaves an upbeat, feel-good aura, as both vocalists match well together, making it a memorable collaboration.
Usher successfully creates a different vibe in each song as he develops recurring themes of love. Although the album could have included fewer songs for a more consistent listening experience, Usher’s return delivers a nostalgic feel of early R&B.
3/5
