Justin Timberlake's Future Sex/ Love Sounds Proves Sexy Still Sells

Did sexy every actually go away? Justin Timberlake's new album, FutureSex/Love Sounds begs attempts to answer that burning question in a little over an hour. The former Mousketeer has come a long way from his days as a member of NSYNC, churning out one over-manufactured pop hit after another. The pop influence is still prevalent, however, on this album as it was with his solo debut, Justified. This time around, the songs are more reminiscent of a certain Prince than of the King of Pop.

Future Sex/Love Sounds also retains a core hip hop sensibility, and many tracks are peppered with funk and dance elements, with a few ballads thrown in for good measure. Collaborations with hip-hop king T.I. and production by Timbaland (who was also a major force behind the success of Justified) lend an extra ounce of hip hop credibility to tracks such as Sexy Back and My Love. Yet its Timberlake's distinctive falsetto and easily relatable lyrics that have so far helped propel this album into the top tier of the charts.

The versatile moods and musical influences on FutureSex/Love Sounds make it sometimes perfect for getting ready to go out for the night, at others ideal for relaxing at home. Of course, there are the inevitable singles, notably "Sexyback", featuring infectious beats that are likely to bring even the wallflowers to the floor. Essentially, these club jams are Timberlake's main strength, and what we have come to expect of his songs.

Admittedly, J.T.'s vocals are a bit weak in certain places on this album, which is disappointing for listeners expecting the same range he displayed on Justified. Whether fans went to the record store expecting an extension of his solo debut or not, the far-ranging appeal of his newest record is undeniable.