This is the follow-up to his previous album, The Marshall Mathers LP 2, which came out in the winter of 2013. On this new project, Eminem collaborated with such noteworthy artists as Beyoncé (for the opening song “Walk on Water”), Ed Sheeran “River”), Alicia Keys (“Like Home”), X Ambassadors (“Bad Husband”), Skylar Grey (“Tragic Endings”), Kehlani (“Nowhere Fast”), and Pink (“Need Me”), among others, but even these big names were not enough to save this collection from being a total mess.
Most of the tracks are lackluster, and too commercial overly political, and overproduced, which is a substantial indication that he is selling out with his new music. It is evident that he was gearing it for the pop world. The songs sound too similar to each other, and there is too much shout rapping, which makes it redundant and annoying to listen to. The songs lack depth and meaning.
The Verdict
Overall, Eminem’s new album is poorly produced, pitiful and disappointing, where all 19 tracks are forgettable. There is nothing original about this project, and it does not feel like a strong comeback album in any way, shape or form, for the internationally recognized rapper. Revival garners one out of five stars. Try harder next time Eminem.
