"All That Matters"

Justin Bieber, album untitled

With no falsetto, no breathy rapping, and no life-or-death, “as long as you love me” melodrama, fans of J. Biebs may be a little shocked by his newest effort. ”All That Matters” begins with a few slick chords on guitar and maintains this coolness throughout. Given his public antics and questionable fashion choices, Bieber demonstrates a remarkable amount of maturity on this track. The beats are slow and deliberate, his voice controlled and—dare I say it?—adult, as he achieves several deeper notes never before heard from the former child pop star. “All That Matters” marks a departure from J. Bieb’s pop roots and explores a softer, subtler, more R&B-esque side of the now 19 year-old singer. It’s certainly not the best single of the year, but it’s surprisingly listenable. “All That Matters,” with its smooth vocals and mellow vibe, is a sign that Bieber may actually have potential for musical success as an adult.

"Rap God"

Eminen, "Marshall Mathers LP 2"

On the heels of “Survival” and “Berzerk,” the first two singles off his latest album “The Marshall Mathers LP 2,” “Rap God” sees Eminem exploring new territory, as he spits rhymes backed by a throbbing house beat. The raps are typical Eminem, self-congratulatory and bombastic—he’s proclaiming himself a “rap god,” after all—but the beat seems more in line with today’s popular club anthems than with his past successes. This change in form, however, doesn’t make “Rap God” feel fresh. Rather, the background is grating and the lyrics uninteresting. Eminem’s speed, wit, and ability to rhyme are readily apparent make his talent in the beginning. But after five more minutes of the song, there still isn’t another takeaway. “Rap God” fits in Eminem’s repertoire as a mediocre entry: a decent rap, but not his most catchy, not his best demonstration of skill, and certainly not on the level of his classics.

"Old School Love ft. Ed Sheeran"

Lupe Fiasco, Tetsuo & Youth

Rapper Lupe Fiasco and British crooner Ed Sheeran may seem like an unlikely pair, but their partnership works well in this latest track, as they play to one another’s strengths. Sheeran, whose breathy voice has been behind several small hits in the past year, provides a soothing chorus, perfect for a song predicated on nostalgia. Fiasco, for his part, adds sharp rhymes to a striking piano background and a strong beat. The overall effect is an upbeat synthesis of genres that deserves significant airplay. It’s not an anthem, but it’s certainly a fun tune that should get attention. Take note: it’s highly likely that this song will be everywhere in the next couple of weeks.