Victoria Monét: JAGUAR II
Lead Editor Bianca Gregg reviews one of the most anticipated R&B projects of the year from Victoria Monét.
I remember when I first heard Victoria Monét, back in 2012 she was featured on Nas’s album ‘Life is Good’ on the track ‘You Wouldn’t Understand,’ and I couldn’t get over her sound. Fast forward to 2023 and Victoria is having her well deserved moment with ‘JAGUAR II’ — her follow-up to ‘JAGUAR.’ The 11 track album features her smash single ‘On My Mama’ which visuals had social media on fire when it dropped. The Ode to the Southern 2000s Era of Hip-Hop was nostalgic to many of us in a particular age group. Monét continues her exploration of the 70s sound as well on this project.
The vibe of the album is a feel good one, something that is often missing in R&B. The album is a breath of fresh air with most of the project being produced by Dernst ‘D’Mile’ Emile. Of course we got a KAYTRANADA produced track titled, ‘Alright.’
I’m going to be honest, it’s not easy to pick a stand out on a no skip album. That’s right, I am deeming this a ‘No Skipper,’ something that has become increasingly hard to achieve in today’s music. Let me go for it though:
‘Smoke’ featuring Lucky Daye was the perfect way to kick off the album. Victoria and Lucky Daye’s vocals are a perfect pairing on this upbeat track.
‘Party Girls’ featuring Buju Banton gives a taste of a more funk and Caribbean infused sound which is a perfect back drop for a late Summer kick back.
‘Hollywood’ featuring the Legendary group Earth, Wind & Fire may be my favorite track. The 70s style riffs amd melody makes this song an album stand out, not to mention Victoria’s daughter Hazel makes an appearance with infectious baby laughter and joy.
Overall, I am giving this project a 10 out of 10. It is perfection for fans that love feel good and 70s inspired music. Victoria Monét nailed it and the flowers she is receiving are well deserved!
