Trey Songz - Passion, Pain, & Pleasure

Trey Songz recently released his fourth album on yesterday and I must say that it is a solid effort. After seeing him in concert a couple of weeks ago, I was quite anxious to hear the direction of this album. I was sure that it would be a continuation of "Ready" and although many critics argued that such is a pitfall of the album, I feel that "PPP" makes for an easy and enjoyable listen reminscient of the greatness that was his previous album.

Upon further listens, I feel that this album is overall on the same lane as "Ready." The songs with Nicki Minaj and Drake, "Bottoms Up" and "Unusual", respectively are smashes in similar vein to his previous hits "I Invented Sex" and Say Ahh." Even so, the solo track "Alone" is probably the standout commercial track on the album. Going further, "Massage" "Doorbell" "Love Faces" and "Red Lipstick" will please fans who enjoyed another of Trey's previous hits "Neighbors Know My Name" as they stick to the sexual/sensual formula.

However, what is notable different about this album are the more experimental tracks. "Blind" and my personal favorite song "Unfortunate" see Trey diving into unique territory that I'd liked to see him expand upon. I appreciate this track in particular, because sometimes you dont't know how good something truly is, until is long gone.

Interestingly, the more traditional R&B songs "Made To Be Together" and "Please Return My Call" are my own personal least favorite songs due to the oversinging/weak choruses. Conversely, the pop ballad "You Just Need Me" and tale of lost love "Can't Be Friends" are highlights that have the potentail to change Trey's public personae (see overtly sexual songs listed in the second paragraph).

All in all, the album is definitely strong and should produce another successful era. Fnas will also like be please with the extended version of the "Panty Droppa" (Intro) that was on "Ready" as Trey has now released what he is calling (The Complete Edition) of the tune.