The Bottom Line
Riahanna is a star in the making and this catchy dance tune will get her noticed. It sounds great dancing on a warm summer evening or blasting from the car stereo.
Pros
- Hypnotically catchy
- Primal drums reminiscent of early 80's classics Adam and the Ants and Bow Wow Wow
- Resonant voice promises versatility
- Exotic island beat feel
Cons
- Not an intellectual challenge
Description
- Great lines - "Let the bass from the speakers run through your sneakers."
- Irresistible bass and drums.
- Great summer fun.
Guide Review - 'Pon De Replay' by Rihanna
The primal drums that open Rihanna's are reminiscent of early 80's new wave classics by the likes of Adam and the Ants and Bow Wow Wow. Just as you begin tapping a toe to the beat, an insistent voice breaks in imploring the DJ to "turn the music up."
It's not a complex message, but just try to resist wanting to get up and shake something. As the song progresses, Rihanna shows off her pipes a bit more to positive effect. Solid r&b ballads should be well within her vocal reach. She has been signed to a 6-7 album contract by Def Jam Records and an album is due out in late summer. There will be a lot more where this came from.
By July 2005 "Pon De Replay" entered the U.S. pop top 10 singles chart. It is making its way toward the top of the chart.
