Is it possible for P!nk to put out a boring album? Hurts 2B Human answers that question in the affirmative. The album starts with a funky, spunky, retro bluesy number called “Hustle” that is reminiscent of Christina Aguilera’s Back to Basics era. While P!nk’s spirit never falters, she doesn’t chart new territory.
Most of the albums sounds like it was specifically written for pop radio. Since P!nk is a pop artist, that’s not a surprise. However, you won’t remember these songs five years from now. “(Hey Why) Miss You Sometime” has overused autotune. “My Attic” is a strong power-pop song, but doesn’t rise above its status as a modern spin on “Dear Diary” from P!nk’s Missundaztood album.
The rest of the songs blend into each other. “Walk Me Home” stands on its own, but, when placed before “90 Days,” it becomes into one long song.
Maybe I’m being to hard on the album. Some artists prefer to play it safe. If all you expect from P!nk are some kickass bangers and folk-inspired pop music that doesn’t break new ground, this album won’t disappoint. You’ll get more of the P!nk you love. If you were hoping for more songs like “U + UR Hand” or “Beautiful Trauma,” you’ll find some hope in “Happy” where P!nk proclaims that she’s a “cynical bitch” who doesn’t like to talk about her feelings.
The two remaining bright spots are “Hurts 2B Human” and “Love Me Anyway.” The former is a duet with Khalid that is the perfect crowd song and you will sing along to in the car. The latter is a country song with Chris Stapleton that can easily be a crossover hit and gives P!nk a chance to showoff her killer vocals in a genre that isn’t pop, rock, or R&B.
There’s a lot for people to like. It’s not a bad album by any means. It’s simply not an interesting album. But what do I know, maybe I’m just being a cynical bitch.
Rating: Rating: 5 out of 10
