There’s something about Rihanna. And her producers.
The singer’s new album — her seventh in seven years — is like many of her other releases, full of songs that are catchy, fun and addictive. Her albums are almost like listening to a “NOW” compilation disc.
“Unapologetic” is no different. It’s full of future hits, and not a single miss.
“Phresh Out the Runaway,” which kicks off the album, does so with a bang. And there are more: “Pour It Up,” which has Rihanna sounding like a female version of The-Dream, is appealing; “Jump” samples Ginuwine’s “Pony” — and it’s surprisingly good; and the David Guetta-helmed “Right Now” is European-flavored and upbeat.
Even Rihanna’s duet with her ex Chris Brown on “Nobody’s Business,” which samples Michael Jackson’s “The Way You Make Me Feel,” will make you move your feet. Lyrically though, the song is somewhat dismissive. “Ain’t nobody’s business,” she sings. OK, then stop tweeting one another.
When Rihanna slows it down, she’s still on point: Her duet with singer Mikky Ekko on the piano-tune “Stay” is touching; the mid-tempo first single, the Sia-penned “Diamonds,” is enjoyable; and “What Now” builds nicely from its calming verse to its electrified hook.
Seven concerts. Seven cities. Seven days.
Rihanna began her “777” tour in Mexico City on Wednesday night, Nov. 14 with an exclusive party for about 2,000 fans.
Dressed in black shorts, a small black top and a black boxing robe, Rihanna was welcomed on the stage of the El Plaza Condesa concert hall with an ovation despite being two hours late. She thanked fans for their patience.
“This is incredible! Thank you very much for your patience. You really make me feel loved here,” said the 24-year-old singer before opening the concert with “Cockiness (Love It).”
The show was a taste of what’s to come in her “Diamonds World Tour” scheduled for the first half of 2013.
Rihanna arrived in Mexico City on a Boeing 777, which will take her to Toronto, Stockholm, Paris, Berlin, London and finally New York, where she will complete the grueling tour and present her latest album, “Unapologetic.”
She also sang “Fresh Off The Runway” and “Diamonds” from her new album, which features collaborations with Eminem, David Guetta, Future and former boyfriend, Chris Brown.
“We’ve waited a long time to get back here, Mexico City!” said the singer.
