Justin Bieber’s latest surprise album has resonated with his fans, although it has received mixed reviews from critics. The Canadian pop icon unveiled his seventh studio album, titled “Swag,” on Friday, marking his first release in four years. Leading up to the launch, Bieber generated buzz by sharing teaser images of billboards in various cities on his Instagram account.
Critics have offered varying opinions on the album, which leans towards a more stripped-down R&B sound. While some reviews have been lukewarm, there have been exceptions. The Guardian gave the album a three-star rating, praising the opening track “All I Can Take” and commending the overall production quality while criticizing the lyrics as “inane.” In contrast, The Telegraph awarded the album two stars, highlighting the track “Daisies” for its summer vibes but critiquing the album as a whole for feeling “undercooked” and “confused.”
Rolling Stone, however, gave “Swag” a glowing four-star review, applauding Bieber for showcasing a diverse range of musical styles. The reviewer noted that the album brings out Bieber’s personal struggles in a creative and expansive manner, making it a standout in his discography.
Featuring 21 tracks with a total runtime of 51 minutes, “Swag” defies the current trend of shorter album releases in pop music. The album includes collaborations and explores themes such as marriage, fame, and fatherhood.
Billboard described “Swag” as a departure from Bieber’s usual pop sound, suggesting that while it may not cater to fans seeking hits like “Sorry” or “Peaches,” those who enjoyed his more subdued albums like “Journals” and “Changes” will be delighted with this new offering.
Justin Bieber, who rose to fame after signing a record deal at the age of 14, has been a prominent figure in the pop music scene since 2009, with chart-topping hits like “Baby” and “Love Yourself.” All six of his previous albums have reached the number one spot on Canadian charts, including his most recent release, “Justice,” in 2021.
However, concerns have emerged among fans regarding the 31-year-old singer’s well-being in recent years. Bieber made headlines for selling his music catalog in 2022, canceling a tour due to health issues in 2023, and parting ways with his management team in the previous year.
Addressing personal struggles, Bieber took to Instagram in March to discuss imposter syndrome and feelings of unworthiness in the face of success. Speculation about his marriage to model Hailey Bieber has also been circulating, especially following the couple’s announcement of the birth of their first child, Jack Blues Bieber, in August.
The tracklist for “Swag” includes a diverse array of titles, such as “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.”