So, Eminem‘s got a new record coming out next week, called The Marshall Mathers LP 2. And just before the album drops, he’s unleashing a powerhouse collaboration with none other than the “What Now” Illuminati Instagram Navy Commander (and frequent partner in crime), Miss Robyn Rihanna “RiRi” Fenty.
The Frequency-produced track’s got a bit more bite (and by bite, I mean beat) than the duo’s last few collaborations — from the devastating 2010 ballad (and worldwide smash), “Love The Way You Lie” to 2012’s sizzurp-laced Unapologetic track “Numb.” This time around, RiRi and EmEm embrace their inner demons and snuggle up with the creepy creature hiding underneath their beds. (Or is it all in their minds? Or is it just an actual Little Monster? Still unclear.)
Em sounds as venomous as ever, but it’s Ri’s major earworm of a chorus that’ll stick with you long afterward.
“I’m friends with the monster that’s under my bed / Get along with the voices inside of my head / You’re trying to save me / Stop holding your breath / And you think I’m crazy / Yeah, you think I’m crazy — well, that’s not fair!” RiRi howls on the Bebe Rexha-penned production, reaching back to her dark “Russian Roulette” days just in time for Halloween. She sounds excellent as always, even if she’s only here for a single hook.
That stomping, overdriven rock-hop beat knocks hard — especially in the final iteration of the chorus, as it acquires a country twang and nearly veers into Ke$ha “Timber” territory. (Almost.)
Will this one match the massive international success of “Love The Way You Lie”? Not sure yet — but it’s quite listenable regardless.
“The Monster” will be released on October 29. (iTunes)