French DJ David Guetta is known for his chart-soaring catchy club hits. His previous album Nothing But the Beat was littered with them: Titanium (featuring Sia), Without You (featuring Usher), Sweat (featuring Snoop Dogg). However, Listen pales by comparison.
In fact, it's rather disappointing. The album sees the return ofthe Guetta team-ups, bringing in the fresh meat of Emeli Sande, The Script and Ryan Tedder. Despite its eclectic line-up, musically this 14 track album (18 on the deluxe edition) often lacks diversity.
John Legend lends his dreamy vocals to the title track, starting with swelling orchestral instruments, then ramping up into an electro-dance chorus.
Listen to Shot Me Down David Guetta by (featuring Skylar Grey):
Shot Me Down (featuring Skylar Grey) on the Deluxe edition is an example of where Guetta got it right, he brings in an array of interesting sounds and vocal stylings to the EDM track. Jaymes Young and Birdy's duet on I'll Keep Loving You is rather beautiful. And the intense beat on Bad (featuring Vassy) is full of fun.
Hey Mama (featuring Nicki Minaj and Afrojack) is one of the few stand-out songs on Listen. The track samples a gravely gospel hook, builds quickly with high-energy synth notes and drops with a throbbing bass line. Minaj raps swiftly and even shows off her singing ability. Hey Mama makes you want to dance, where as many of the other tracks on Listen simply put you to sleep.
Listen to a sneak peek of Hey Mama by David Guetta (featuring Nicki Minaj and Afrojack):
