7/10

Over the last few years, the public profile of Janelle Monáe has exploded. While originally making a strong mark with her initial releases 'The ArchAndroid' and 'The Electric Lady' near the beginning of the 2010s, Monáe quickly began to establish herself as an actor, taking time away from her progressive musical nature for a number of years. But when she dropped her third outing 'Dirty Computer' in 2018, she was quickly heralded as one of the more innovative names doing the rounds today. And after a few more years honing her acting chops, she is back once again to deliver her fourth full-length 'The Age Of Pleasure', a record that sees her enter a more vibrant sound.

While 'Dirty Computer' was praised for its raw and personal lyrics, which saw Monáe come out as bi-sexual in the process, 'The Age Of Pleasure' is focused more around the lighter and fun-loving side to her sound. Possibly her most party-ready record to date, this new album sees her in a renewed persona that is more about the bright and energetic aesthetic she has dabbled with in the past. Channelling an early 00s Beyonce for a number of these cuts, she looks to present herself as a more carefree artist, moving with a free-wheeled spirits throughout.

It may not have the same instantly impactful direction that 'Dirty Computer' brought to the fold, but 'The Age Of Pleasure' still makes for a rousing listen from start to finish. With its eclectic approach to both sound and aesthetic throughout, she is still proving herself as a wildly adventurous name doing the rounds right now.