Frequency of Silence: Victoria Monét’s New Album in a World Without Music Criticism

Victoria Monét is about to release her new album, Frequency of Love. This news is significant because music criticism has largely disappeared from mainstream discourse. Record releases were once major events, with the press dissecting every track and the public forming opinions based on informed analysis.

Monét’s rise to fame coincides with the decline of music journalism. Her 2023 album Jaguar II received praise from critics, including Pitchfork, but reviews are no longer a benchmark for success. The absence of music criticism has created a void in our cultural narrative, leaving us reliant on artists’ social media statements and label press releases for information about their work.

Frequency of Love follows closely on the heels of Monét’s Jaguar II and its deluxe versions. Many artists now release albums, only to follow up with expanded editions or remixes shortly after. This trend has created overwhelming pressure to constantly produce new content, not just to keep fans engaged but also to stay relevant in an industry where yesterday’s news is often today’s nostalgia.

Monét’s collaboration with Kaytranada on the single “Reach Out” is notable, but its release as part of a larger album illustrates the shift in music distribution. Singles are no longer standalone events; they’re marketing tools for a larger product. This change has altered how we experience and interact with music.

The music video for “Reach Out” showcases Monét’s style and confidence as an artist, but it also reflects the homogenization of musical expression. The use of familiar tropes – backup dancers vogueing in a luxurious setting – is both a nod to the past and a desperate attempt to stay relevant.

As Frequency of Love drops on October 2, we’re left wondering if anyone will discuss its merits or shortcomings in the press. Will Monét’s album receive thoughtful reviews from reputable publications? Or will it fade into the background noise, another addition to an artist’s discography without meaningful context?

The absence of music criticism is not just a problem for the industry; it’s also a loss for listeners. Without informed analysis and critique, we’re left with a curated experience – an artist’s carefully crafted image and soundscapes presented as fact rather than interpretation.

In a world where music criticism has disappeared, Frequency of Love will likely meet a mixture of anticipation and indifference. Monét’s new album may receive attention from fans and die-hard enthusiasts, but the broader cultural conversation will likely be muted. As we await its release, it’s worth considering what this silence says about our relationship with music and how we engage with art.

Monét’s European tour with Anderson .Paak was a commercial success, but it highlighted the disconnect between live performances and album releases. Artists often prioritize touring over studio work now, and the resulting product – be it an album or EP – is secondary to the experience of seeing them perform live.

The release of Frequency of Love will mark another milestone in Monét’s career, but its impact will be felt long after the initial buzz has faded. The absence of music criticism has created a void that cannot be filled by social media posts or label press releases alone. It’s up to us – as listeners and participants in this cultural narrative – to engage with art on a deeper level, beyond the superficial.

The question remains: how will we approach Frequency of Love? Will we view it as a series of singles, each one a standalone event without context? Or will we engage with Monét’s work as part of a larger conversation about music and its role in our lives?