Get Down On It

How much can anyone forgive in exchange for a good beat? Justin Timberlake unintentionally poses that question on his sophomore record, but as long as listeners are after nothing more than a solid party album, Futuresex/Lovesounds will keep them satisfied.Many artists find their sophomore albums to be potentially career-breaking challenges. Timberlake has already put in time trying to alter public perception of his work, and on Futuresex/Lovesounds he seems to simply enjoy himself.

Timbaland’s production deserves equal credit for the album’s dance-tastic vibe. Not one to turn down any job (ever), Timbaland proves why he is one of the most sought after producers in many different genres. He consistently provides thick, danceable beats that are perfectly paired with Timberlake’s swaggering falsetto.

Yet even Justin can’t resist the urge to force some gravity into his party album. On “Losing My Way,” he sings “Now I got a problem with that little white rock/See I can’t put down the pipe/And it is breakin’ me down/Watch the world spin round/While my dreams fall down/Is anybody out there?” Timbaland keeps a good, albeit slower beat on the song, so the party doesn’t really have to stop. Pop artists will always be seduced by affecting role model status. Fans will just have to suffer through.

ame An oddly forced cameo from Three Six Mafia pops up on “Chop Me Up,” and Timberlake still feels the need to include a ballad at the very end of the record. No doubt he’s throwing a bone to fans who have followed him from his N*SYNC days. Put the album on for some ass-shaking fun dripping in sexual innuendo, but don’t expect more.