It’s been a long seven years since Justin Timberlake’s last solo album, Futuresex/Lovesounds, and the anticipated follow-up, The 20/20 Experience, was released  March 15.

While I was never an avid Timberlake fan, my seventh-grade self in no way hesitated to get down and boogie to 2006’s smash-single, “Sexyback”. Considering my meek exposure to Timberlake’s music, I was expecting roughly 45 minutes of “Sexyback”. While that would have been good enough for one listen, I am far more satisfied with this robust and diverse effort.

“Pusher Love Girl” sets the tone for the album, opening with Disney-esque strings and promptly dropping into a smooth groove that I just can’t help but nod my head to. Once Timberlake adds his trademarked croon to the mix, there is nothing to do but hum along with the deceptively simple melody. Timberlake’s voice even makes the repetitive lyrics, a collection of narcotic similes about his lover, compelling.

Normally, an eight-minute song would be out of place on a pop record, but, “Pusher Love Girl”, sets the stage in that regard as well. At a whopping 70 minutes, with only three songs less than seven minutes long, the album is the definition of getting your money’s worth. While many songs have ambient introductions and conclusions leading into the next tune, it makes for an engaging experience when heard from end-to-end.

“Suit & Tie”, the first single for this album, is sure to be the next dance floor staple. It has already found a home on radio stations like Kiss FM and the Mix, and will definitely make its way onto many summer playlists.

One of the most memorable moments on the entire record is Jay Z’s verse on, “Suit & Tie”. Atop a minimal halftime beat, Jay Z’s aggressive flow adds an interesting aspect to an already catchy song.

Following this single is my favorite song on this entire record, “Don’t Hold The Wall”. The beat is comprised of ancestral drums and handclaps, alongside a group of people chanting as if around a fire. The hypnotizing vocal sample from which the song draws its title is repeated throughout the chorus, serving as a home base for this experimental track to return to before venturing back out into the uncharted wilderness of pop-dance-tribalism.

In the time since its release, the second single, “Mirrors”, has become wildly popular. Undoubtedly, this is due to its more conventional take on the rhythm & blues with which Timberlake has become so comfortable.

Normally, I would have an issue with this sort of generic track getting more recognition than other, more “out there” songs like, “Don’t Hold the Wall”, and, “Spaceship Coupe”, but this song has such an infectious melody and relatable lyrics that I have nothing to say. It will likely join “Suit & Tie” on contemporary radio shortly.

When it comes down to it, there aren’t many negative remarks to be said about The 20/20 Experience. Aside from occasionally boring lyricism, this is an incredibly well put-together and thought-out record, showcasing a fantastic vocal performance by Justin Timberlake along with solid production by J-Roc and Timbaland, alongside other established producers. I eagerly await the release of the “second half” of The 20/20 Experience this November.