Justin Bieber drops surprise new album, ‘SWAG’ | CNN
Justin Bieber is back with his surprise seventh album, Swag—a smooth, stylish R&B project that’s dripping in vibe and top-tier production. And honestly? It sounds incredible. Think dreamy ‘80s beats, lush synths, and buttery vocals that float like smoke in a dimly lit lounge. But while the sound is gorgeous, the lyrics leave a lot to be desired.
Let’s start with the good stuff. Musically, Swag is Bieber’s most artistic and personal work in years. It kicks off strong with “All I Can Take,” an emotional, retro-inspired track that sets the mood with echo-filled vocals and synths that feel both nostalgic and fresh. It’s clear he’s working with some real pros here—producers like Carter Lang (SZA), Tobias Jesso Jr (Adele, Dua Lipa), and Dylan Wiggins all help shape the album’s rich, R&B-meets-dream-pop vibe.
Tracks like “Butterflies” and “Too Long” showcase Bieber’s strength in creating infectious, emotionally layered soundscapes. “Daisies,” with its gritty guitars, and the lo-fi “Zuma House” bring some edge and intimacy to the mix. One standout? The surprisingly beautiful “Dadz Love” with Lil B—a blend of gospel-style vocals and fuzzy beats that just works.
But then the lyrics happen.
Here’s the deal: Swag sounds mature, but lyrically, it feels stuck in the shallow end. Many songs are love letters to his wife, Hailey, but they rarely move beyond surface-level sweetness. And in tracks like “Go Baby,” which name-drops her viral lip gloss phone case (yes, really), things start to feel a bit cringe. Worst of all, the spoken-word parts—conversations with influencer Druski—don’t add much except awkwardness.
Sure, Bieber’s trying to show us his real self here. He opens up about fame, mental health, and how fans worry about him. But instead of giving us depth or new insight, it often comes across as vague or self-indulgent. You won’t walk away knowing Justin any better—you’ll just remember how great the beats were.
The verdict? Swag is a gorgeous album to listen to. It’s polished, nostalgic, and creatively produced. But without meaningful lyrics to match, it feels emotionally hollow. There’s artistry here, but not enough honesty.
Final Thoughts:
- What shines: Beautiful production, strong R&B vibes, bold creative choices.
- What flops: Shallow lyrics, awkward interludes, missed chance for real connection.
- Best for: A late-night chill session or background vibe. Just don’t expect a lyrical masterpiece.
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