G I R L- Pharrell Williams | Album Review

Putting aside the amazing success of two of 2013 biggest hits (Blurred Lines, Get Lucky), the ridiculously sized hats, and the fact that we already know Pharrell Williams is a musical genius, his second solo studio album and first in 8 years, reveals that Pharrell really doesn't have much to say for himself.

Pharrell Williams - G  I  R  L  ( RCA 2014)

Having wrote and produced all the songs himself (excluding  'Marilyn Monroe') Pharrell has no one else to blame for this disappointing effort on what should of been one of 2014 most hottest albums. The first word to be heard on this album is Pharrell declaring the word "different" on the albums opening track Marilyn Monroe. And it seems like that was the main focus of the album - making something "different" but forgetting about the quality of the songs.



Pharrell has stated in an interview about the album that he "wanted to honour the all the female figures that have been in his life by making this record". Aww that's so sweet - so you would think. Turns out the way Pharrell hopes on honouring female figures is by offering them "hot sex and shiny things" as Pharrell sing 'Lost Queen'. Or by giving them the 'license' to 'ride his motorcycle' as he offers in 'Come and Get It Bae'. Really honouring lyrics there Pharrell. 


The album features vocals from Justin Timberlake, Alicia Keys and arguably the biggest pop star in the world right now Miley Cyrus. Even then, Pharrell doesn't shine so you forget that the song is his - Alicia Keys effortlessly steals the song 'Know Who You Are' as she brings her powerful vocals and disregards Pharrell's efforts,  making him sound like the featuring artist - awkward. Another annoying thing of this album is that most of the songs are just like one big chorus, for example the albums ridiculously catchy but equally tiresome lead single 'Happy'.

It's not all bad, there are some enjoyable moments on the album, like the soulful and sunny Brand New featuring Justin Timberlake which is certain to make everyone want to pick up salsa lessons to groove the track in style. Or the irresistible 'Gush' that is reminiscent of Pharrell's N*E*R*D days.



Recommened tracks: Marilyn Monroe, Brand New, Gush, Know Who You Are.
5/10