On The Download: Alicia Keys’ ‘The Element Of Freedom’

Where to begin in reviewing Alicia Keys fourth full-length studio album? OK, let’s just cut to the chase – this album is brilliant and one of the best albums of the year. And it likely will clean up at the 2011 Grammys. It is easily her best album since her 2002 debut, “Songs In A Minor,” and it might even top its predecessor.

Now… to fill in the blanks.

This album has A SOUND – it’s hard to describe, but it hearkens back to a ‘70s or ‘80s production value, vibe & execution. It just doesn’t sound like an album from the ‘90s or ‘00s, but by no means does this mean that it’s not contemporary. There is a unique percussion that runs through every track, most evident on second single, “Try Sleeping With A Broken Heart” (easily one of the best tracks of 2009, and one of Alicia’s best ever!) and the following track, “Wait Til You See My Smile.” The percussion is matched on these tracks by a distinctly ‘80s synthesizer, which makes for a dramatic result reminiscent of a specific past era.

After a short Intro, the album leads off with the haunting “Love Is Blind,” before launching into lead single, “Doesn’t Mean Anything,” which also ranks amongst Alicia’s best tracks of all time.

Alicia duets strongly with both up-and-comer Drake (on “Un-Thinkable [I’m Ready]) and Beyonce (on “Put It In A Love Song,” the most upbeat track on the album, and a likely radio hit). And she caps the album off with her solo version of her Jay-Z anthemic ode to New York City, “Empire State of Mind (Part II).”

Part Marvin Gaye, part Stevie Wonder, and yet still all trademark Alicia, there isn’t a track on this album that disappoints. It’s an album for making love to, or for chilling inside on a rainy day. It’s a winter album. It’s a soothing album. It’s the magnum opus thus far from an artist who has in many ways defined the past decade.

Download It – Immediately!