![]() On “Worth It,” the girls use the chorus to repeatedly re-affirm their self-worth on “Suga Mama,” they’re affectionate but unwilling to fund their deadbeat boyfriends’ lavish lifestyles. Throughout Reflection, men are portrayed as nuisances or problems to be tackled together rather than opportunities for competition or sources of conflict at their best, they’re equal partners in romantic relationships and friendships. ![]() It’s a vital, palpably youthful song - how many other groups could get away with referencing the Nae Nae and using “bae” without looking like dorks? - but that doesn’t undermine the respect they deserve. The aforementioned “BO$$” is a good starting point, and an example of the power of representation: over punchy horns and a kinetic rhythmic tapestry, five young women of color demand worthy partners, spell out their confidence, and shout out role models like Michelle Obama and Oprah. This is a group that’s funny, self-assured, and inspiring in their best moments. Reflection is certainly enjoyable on a purely musical level, but Fifth Harmony’s perspective and positivity is often even more exciting. Tyga feature “Like Mariah” is a good example, with novice listeners getting a sunny slice of pop-R&B and veterans smiling at the “Always Be My Baby” sample that anchors the song. Younger, less knowledgeable fans will enjoy the melodies and singing on their own merit, and savvier listeners will chuckle at the obvious sonic references and flashes of inspiration. Like a kids’ movie that’s been stuffed with subliminal jokes for parents, Reflection is an album with multiple layers. There are a few guest verses that feel tacked on to appease commercial interests, but they’re ultimately unnecessary when given the chance, it’s obvious that the girls are comfortable with hip-hop, with the Beyoncé-esque snarl and purr of “Reflection” serving as ample proof. Over the course of the album, the group moves from percussive, horn-stabbed black pop (excellent lead single “BO$$”) to squelching, simple knockoffs of producer DJ Mustard’s signature sound (“Top Down,” the title track) to more traditional piano-led R&B (“Everlasting Love,” “We Know”), and capably handles each new style. More importantly, they’re agile, and have an intuitive understanding of how their differences in vocal texture and range can impact their songs by introducing surprise and tension. This is by no means an an album standing at the vanguard of contemporary pop and R&B, but it doesn’t need to be: four of the group’s five members are still teenagers, after all, and it’s perfectly natural that they’ve spent their first full album together mimicking recent high points in their favorite genres. Reflection is Fifth Harmony’s debut full-length - an EP, the sprightly Better Together, came out in October 2013 supporting debut single “Miss Movin’ On” - and it covers a surprising amount of stylistic ground.
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