Justice / Justin Bieber / March 19, 2021
- Joshua Yoo
- Apr 10, 2021
- 2 min read
People have seemingly forgotten the appeal of Justin Bieber’s artistry, underscored by the reception of his previous release. On ‘Justice,’ he reminds the world of his ability to play the role of pop-star somewhat effectively, transitioning back closer to his stylistic forte, albeit covering any real ground on injustice or social change.
While before insisting that his sound was purely R&B, Justin fully embraces his hit-friendly pop sound, mixed with a heavy dose of 80’s sonic aesthetics. The Phil Collins-inspired “Deserve You” presents the best of this sound, with its thunderous percussion and soaring hook vocals, but other similar attempts on the album tend to fall flatter, such as the awkward and simplistic “Die For You.” The vocal performances are generally bright and clean, and the production often impresses (look to the bubbly and infectious groove of “Peaches”), but both are undermined by a sense of unvaried thematic substance and writing.
The inclusion of multiple MLK voice snippets would intimate that the album would center its focus on some sort of social injustice, but Justin almost entirely dedicates his messaging to effusive affection for his wife. The sentiment is sweet, and tracks such as the acoustic-plucked ballad “Off My Face” are truly endearing testaments, but it becomes increasingly difficult to overlook the social and moral intentions that Justin fails to even remotely scratch the surface of anywhere on the album.
Setting aside its thematic intent, ‘Justice’ restores faith through its periodic moments of shining production and sticky hooks. Though not consistent from start to finish, Justin hits his stride enough to produce memorable and encouraging moments.
Highlight(s): Peaches, Lonely, 2 Much
Lowlight(s): Die For You, Somebody, Love You Different, Ghost, As I Am
SCORE: 4/10
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tQ0yjYUFKAE
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