When writing about Chuu’s title track Only Cry In The Rain last month, I was overly dismissive of its subdued sound. In my defense, it’s hard to muster excitement when you hear so many songs of this same energy day after day. Sometimes, it takes a while for the highlights to reveal themselves. Only Cry In The Rain proved itself an earworm, but there are songs I enjoy even more on the accompanying album. Luckily, Chuu picked my favorite to promote with a new music video today.
Back In Town is breezy pop uplift in its simplest form. The song bops over a light funk beat, giving the melodies plenty of space while anchoring the track’s airiness with insistent rhythm. Other artists of this era would opt for a more aloof instrumental that would have my eyes glazing over, but by tethering Back In Town‘s melodies to a slightly more dynamic (and less cluttered) beat, the producers are able to draw out the best from the song.
Regular readers will know that my favorite artist of all time is Janet Jackson, and there were multiple times across this album that Chuu’s vocal delivery reminded me of her — especially when she climbs into her upper register. The rhythmic nature of her performance and sweetness of her tone draws a welcome comparison on songs like this. This nostalgia certainly affects my goodwill toward Back In Town, but the song is quite strong on its own.
Hooks
8
Production
8
Longevity
9
Bias
9
RATING
8.5