M.I.A., Freedun | Track Review 🎵

M.I.A. returns with her fifth studio album, AIM. Ahead of AIM, M.I.A. has released several singles, including most recent effort, “Freedun.”  She’s not all alone on “Freedun” – she gets an assist from ZAYN.

“Freedun” opens with a superb percussive groove, which makes the record stand out from the jump.  In addition to its mean groove, the record features exceptional synths within the production work.  “Freedun” is more than just a soundscape, as both M.I.A. and ZAYN give excellent efforts.

First and foremost, M.I.A. delivers capable vocals; she quasi-raps at the beginning before settling into pitched, sung vocals. Over the course of her performance, she delivers plenty of sharp lyrics.  Among her first “bullets” is:

“Some people f*ck it up, take vacations / Refugees learn about patience / sometimes I Have my visions / I don’t even need a religion”

She’s clearly in unapologetic, I.D.G.A.F. mode, and that’s awesome by all means. She continues on with punches, asserting:

“Lara Croft is soft when it comes to my stuff / she’s made up, I’m real, that’s enough”

ZAYN can’t be left out.  He provides the “cherry on top” with lovely vocals on the chorus:

 “All the stars are still shining / but you’re the only one I see / I can feel when your heart beats, yeah / babe, you can’t keep your eyes off me”

Ultimately, he delivers delightfully soulful vocals. 

Final Thoughts

All in all, M.I.A. has a hit on her hands with “Freedun.” It’s well produced and filled with thoughtful, confident lyrics from M.I.A.  ZAYN provides a lift with his vocals. Even so, M.I.A. is on autopilot.

M.I.A. • AIM • Interscope • Release: 9.9.16

Photo Credit: Interscope