Review Roundup: Trey Songz - 'Chapter V'
Trey Songz masters the art of seduction once again on his fifth album Chapter V, in stores and online now. The 27-year-old heartthrob calls on a star-studded cast of collaborators including Lil Wayne, Young Jeezy, T.I., Meek Mill, Diddy, and Rick Ross, with production from Rico Love, Benny Blanco, Stargate, Troy Taylor, and more. The ladies love him, but did the critics fall for his charm? Find out below.
The New York Times: On Chapter V, one of his most consistently strong albums, he begins to explore life on the other side. That’s clear from the moist single “Dive In,” in which he deploys a light and lovely falsetto that’s reminiscent of Usher, even though the quaver in his voice elsewhere on the song is pure R. Kelly.
USA Today: Songz has a knack for revving up the libido with smooth pillow talk and sly suggestions, and he doesn’t disappoint here. 3/4
Los Angeles Times: In the sparkling “Dive In,” produced by his longtime creative partner Troy Taylor, he takes a rather generous view of a pool boy’s duties, while “Forever Yours” presents Songz as a selfless expert in wish-fulfillment. 2.5/4
The Washington Post: Songz is back with his signature blend of soft-core imagery and sweet nothings. In fact, Chapter V highlights Songz’s unique role in R&B: He bridges the gap between sexless boy bands and unromantic raunchy singers, between young guys who sing shallow songs about strip clubs and old guys who sing heavy songs about their divorces.
Newsday: Trey Songz seemingly wants to please everyone on Chapter V. … It’s the kind of pandering you’d expect from a newbie on Chapter 1, but for Chapter 5, it’s just lame hedging. B-
The Boston Globe: Even though Songz’s latest chapter in his ongoing book of seduction doesn’t offer many fresh insights, it does solidify his status as one of contemporary R&B’s supreme lovermen.
Rap-Up’s Favorite Tracks: “Dive In,” “Heart Attack,” “Fumble,” “Simply Amazing”