Justin Bieber’s latest surprise album has resonated well with fans but has received mixed reviews from critics. The Canadian pop sensation dropped his seventh studio album, “Swag,” on Friday after building anticipation through Instagram posts of billboards in various cities the day before. This release marks his first album in four years.
Critics have given mostly lukewarm feedback on the album, which leans towards a stripped-down R&B style. The Guardian’s review, rating the album three stars, praised the opening track “All I Can Take” for its production quality but criticized the lyrics as “inane.” The Telegraph’s two-star review highlighted the song “Daisies” as having “song of the summer vibes,” but overall found the album to be “undercooked,” describing it as “confused and messy.”
Contrastingly, Rolling Stone awarded the album four stars, commending Bieber for exploring a wide range of musical styles. Reviewer Rob Sheffield noted that “Swag” showcases Bieber’s creative depth, stating, “Bieber’s creativity shines through in this diverse and innovative album.”
“Swag” breaks away from the trend of shorter pop albums with its 21 tracks spanning 51 minutes. The album features collaborations and delves into themes like marriage, fame, and fatherhood.
Billboard’s analysis emphasized Bieber’s departure from his usual pop sound, highlighting that while fans of hits like “Sorry” and “Peaches” might be surprised, those who appreciated his subdued albums “Journals” and “Changes” would be delighted by this new direction.
Having signed a record deal at just 14 years old, Bieber has become one of the best-selling pop artists of the century, with chart-topping hits dating back to 2009, including classics like “Baby” and “Love Yourself.” All six of his albums have reached the top of the Canadian charts, with his most recent release before “Swag” being 2021’s “Justice.”
In recent years, concerns have arisen among fans about the 31-year-old artist. Bieber’s decisions to sell his music catalogue in 2022, cancel a tour due to health issues in 2023, and part ways with his management team last year have raised questions about his well-being.
Addressing his struggles with imposter syndrome and feelings of unworthiness, Bieber shared personal reflections on Instagram earlier this year. Speculation surrounding his marriage to model Hailey Bieber escalated recently, especially following the birth announcement of their first child, Jack Blues Bieber, in August.
The tracklist of “Swag” includes songs like “All I Can Take,” “Daisies,” “Yukon,” “Go Baby,” “Things You Do,” “Butterflies,” “Way It Is,” “First Place,” “Soulful,” “Walking Away,” “Glory Voice Memo,” “Devotion,” “Dadz Love,” “Therapy Session,” “Sweet Spot,” “405,” “Swag,” “Zuma House,” “Too Long,” and “Forgiveness.”