Anderson .Paak
Make It Better
Aftermath/Warner
The aesthetically soothing Make It better featuring Motown legend Smokey Robinson is the standout single from Anderson .Paaks’ latest album, and second in two years, Ventura.
While managing to hold a modern feel, Smokey’s influence is clear within the heavy Motown tasting notes. Robinson’s voice meshes surprisingly well with Paak’s and it is unfortunate it wasn’t more utilised.
Though the lyrics are simple they are of heavier subject matter, Paak pleading with his partner for them to work together to save their relationship. Yet the overall feel of this old school jam is light, lovely and decadently smooth.
It is a long step away from the sound of last years Oxnard which featured heavy rapping and hypersexual imagery. It is melodic and pretty with a catchy hook and sounds like it could slot into a John Legend album seamlessly. Easy, luxuriant, smooth background music with a retro soul vibe.
SARA WHITE
