Review - Sex Therapy: The Experience (or: The Sessions) by Robin Thicke

From the twenty-three second introduction on The Experience ("911"), listeners are alerted to the fact that this isn't the safely seductively brand of Robin to which R&B audiences have become accustomed. Sex Therapy rather serves as Thicke's stepping out, finally embracing the simmering sexuality that's always lurked just barely below the surface of his soaring falsetto.

Tightly produced and expertly crafted, Sex Therapy draws its audience into an intimate atmosphere in which Robin is always front-and-center, despite the numerous guest appearances. Think of it as FutureSex/LoveSounds for more experienced listeners. But unlike the forceful sexuality of Justin's album, Thicke doesn't need to beg for the attention. Robin is keenly aware that he already has it and relishes every opportunity to bask in it, from the overly indulgent "Meiple" to the sizzling "Mrs. Sexy" (notice the reflexive title of the latter).

Thicke also takes quite a few risks, firmly exiting the low-key neo-soul niche he's carved for tracks such as the sexy club-banger "Shakin' It 4 Daddy" and electro-funky Off the Wall-sounding "Rollacoasta." But always the good guy, Thicke never veers into truly dirty territory, crafting an image that is simultaneously sexually smoldering and unquestionably sweet. It's the perfect combination that none of his contemporaries seem to be able to master.

"It's your body, we can do whatever you like," Robin sweetly yet strongly intones on the title track. Thicke can be sure his audience will be more than happy to indulge themselves, and they should, because mainstream male R&B of this caliber is in short supply.

Rating: A

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