Review

Jason Derulo: Jason Derulo

He’s topped the billboard charts with his single 'Whatcha Say', and now it looks like Jason Derulo is about to do the same with his self titled debut album on Beluga Heights Records. Not content with writing songs for artists like Cassie, Danity Kane, Lil Wayne and Sean Kingston, Derulo jumped in to the studio and produced a modern slice of R&B.

Opening with his massive #1 hit, Derulo then moves onto what I am sure will be a favourite track of many a young singleton 'Ridin Solo'. Celebrating that he has moved on from a broken relationship, feeling good and about to go to a club, 'Ridin Solo' is an infectious song that will make you want to join Derulo on his night out as you’d be guaranteed a great time. In My Head opens up into one of the stand tracks on the album. Visualising all the things he can do with the girl of his dreams, Derulo sounds assured as he declares "I’ll be your teacher I’ll show you the ropes". Although I question if Derulo is old enough to know what a Love Hangover is, he sings about it in the upbeat track of the same name. Reminiscing on the night before where there was some drinking, dancing and a lot of sinning Derulo says he has no regrets about his actions. Other highlights on this album are Blind, where we share in Derulo’s pain at discovering he’d been blinded by love to what his girl was doing. Also the guitar led 'Fallen', celebrating the good things in his relationship is a good showcase of Derulo’s vocal and versatility.

So what’s my final verdict? Virtually every song on this album could be placed onto a radio playlist and made into a hit single. I admit I was pleasantly surprised at the finished product, however there is little to set Derulo apart from the crop of new r&b. If you are a teenager or young adult you may be stimulated by this album, but if you want something with diversity, depth and substance you may be disappointed.
Words Richard 'Ricardito' Ashie