"Freedom" - Akon (Freedom - Akon)

Member Name: PJSandwich

Product:	Freedom - Akon
Date:	11/08/09 (9 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Different, classy, upbeat, catchy, loveable

Disadvantages: Some tracks i found not as appealing

Before hip-hop album "Freedom", i wasn't a fan of Akon. Originally called Acquitted, its the Senegalese- American's third studio album...and i love it after stumbling across it being played by a friend. Featuring money-raking hits such as "Right Now (Na Na Na)", "Beautiful", "I'm So Paid" and "We Don't Care", this is the very best of the R'n'B artist. I assume the UK agree too- with it reaching number one in the album charts following many of its single releases.

Before this 2008 release, he had been famous for singles such as "Lonely" and his shrill, piercing and wonderfully unique voice. However, this hip-hop masterpiece is miles ahead from any other, still encapturing his well-known vocals and catchy beats but with more speed, sophistication and class. His smooth new look can be felt from the album's cover itself, with a calming ocean background and liberating title giving its listener a happy,"everything is cool" feeling.

Inside, there is a great variety. The Island Records Group publication holds kind, smooth romatic-sounding tunes such as "Right Now", "Keep You Much Longer" and "Against the Grain", which contrast to the more clever, rappy upbeat stuff such as "Troublemaker", "I'm So Paid" and "Holla Holla". Plus, there is something never seen before from the Afrian born singer, with thoughtful tracks such as "Birthmark" and "Freedom" refering more to his personal opinions, happiness and roots- these ones made me smile and that i thought most related to the title and cover. Although, all the tracks share the same high quality, catchyness and hardcore, rhythmic feel that Akon deserves recognition for.

Keep an eye out for duets too- i loved T-Pain's synthetic harmonic voice in smooth r'n'b song "Holla Holla" (track 7) and cleverly sewn- in artists such as gansta Lil Wayne, rapper Kardinall Offishall, soulful friend of Lady Gaga Colby O'Donis, and newcomers Young Jeezy and Wyclef Jean. Its something special.

Overall, a fantastic album that requires wrenching up to high volume. Brimming with diversity; it has something for every mood. Buy for as little as £4.98 on Amazon, its a vital purchase for any r'n'b, rap, hip-hop fan.

Summary: A varied hip-hop success from the talented and legendary Akon