Trey Songz delivers to us ‘Trigga, the R&B crooner’s sixth album, via Songbook/ Atlantic Records.
On the latest effort we find Songz “unchained” and ready to cement his place on the R&B throne. On his previous albums Trey has given plenty of buzz worthy singles and ballads, but on “Trigga” he is attempting to push things to the next level.
Trey has been in the music game for a while now and with each album there has been growth. He’s no longer the kid from Virginia who just wanted to “make it,” he’s made it and the confidence is clear on “Trigga.”
On #Trigga Trey is “unchained” and demanding everyone to the dance floor #musicNote @TreySongz
— Michael Howard (@MichaelHowardTV) July 1, 2014
“Trigga’s” radio-friendly songs like “SmartPhones” will move Trey ahead of the R&B pack. Songz isn’t trying to rewrite the playbook on this new album, but he is certainly upgrading the plays. “Touchin, Lovin” will easily rule urban radio this year with the help of rap powerhouse Nicki Minaj and its playful lyrics. And who wouldn’t want to see these two frolicking around in a music video for this track.
On songs like “Disrespectful” and “Late Night” Songz gives us a glimpse into his Hollywood bachelor lifestyle. He proudly flaunts the fact he isn’t “looking for a relationship” on “Late Night.”
“Yes, No, Maybe” could almost use a verse from rapper Drake. On the track we see the R&B master confronting a rocky relationship that seems to be haunting him. The recurring themes of love lost, money, and fame found on much of hip-hop music in a post-Drake world, are handled well by Songz.
Vocally Trey delivers in his signature way. On his sixth album you certainly aren’t mistaking his voice for anyone else. One could venture to say his rap soul driven delivery has set a standard for newcomers into the industry like August Alsina.
The only downfall of “Trigga” is that Trey may not be heard by the masses if he doesn’t make enough noise like the other R&B bad boys. Trey’s been around for a while now but still trails in the spotlight behind some of his contemporaries like Usher, Chris Brown, and now even Pharrell. The other R&B kings have figured out how to make the world pay attention, it’s time for Trey to do the same. The Justin Bieber feature on the “Foreign” remix isn’t needed, but the song may give Trey a chance to crossover, like his fore mentioned counterparts. If you can’t beat them, join them Trey.
Trey Songz “Trigga” rates a 3.5 out of 5 stars.
Standout tracks include “Cake,” “Na Na,” and “Foreign.”
Written by Michael Howard