In case you didn’t know (I didn’t), Marshmello has a new album. His sophomore album Joytime II released yesterday, but it hasn’t been well received. Rolling Stone in particular panned it in their review, giving it 1.5 out of 5 stars. Ouch.
Hang on, Marshmello fanboys and fangirls: Rolling Stone does not hate him. The review opens up by describing the pop and EDM marriage, Marshmello’s rise to fame and his recent work. They compliment big singles such as “Friends” with Anne-Marie, “You & Me,” and “Wolves” with Selena Gomez. However, the review addresses a huge problem: the album is pure EDM cheese.
The review makes note of the lack of features, an interesting digression given Marshmello’s recent singles. They do credit the album for being a vehicle for big festival tracks, but argue the album only exists to support his radio singles. The review specifically mentions “Friends” climbing up the Billboard Hot 100 chart as well. The review argues it’s a bit suspect the single, and other recent singles, are missing from the album.
At the end of the day, Marshmello will continue to be popular and appeal to EDM fans across the world. Just don’t count Rolling Stone in his fanclub.
Cover Photo: Rukes
