Though the controversial reviews of his resurgent single, “Yummy,” were proudly exhibited on the internet, Bieber’s Valentine’s Day album release did not disappoint. The 17-track, hour-long album “Changes” was released after a three-year hiatus in which Bieber focused on his mental health and deep-rooted issues as a celebrity. 

Bieber, 25, appears to be grounded and content in “Changes,” as he made his wife, Hailey Bieber, his main focus. Starting with “All Around Me,” an ode to Hailey accompanied by only reverberated strings, and ending with “At Least For Now,” a simple chord progression on the keys, the R&B/pop album exceeds its hype.

Growing up in the public eye, the Canadian singer-songwriter has shown prominent musical and personal growth since he was first discovered by Scooter Braun, a record executive, in 2008. Ever since “My World 2.0” (2010), his first happy-go-lucky pop album that started the infamous Bieber fever among teens, Bieber has elevated himself from being just a teen phenom into an ever-evolving pop artist. 

Nevertheless, four albums, three worldwide tours and countless TV and award shows performances later, Bieber admitted he wasn’t enjoying the one thing he loves to do — perform. Hence, he stepped away from the world in 2017, canceling the last 14 shows from his Purpose World Tour. A year later, he secretly tied the knot with his then-girlfriend and pillar, Hailey Baldwin, inspiring him to create “Changes.”

A far cry from his EDM and pop-hybrid album “Purpose” (2015), “Changes” shows Bieber in his most genuine state, sonically and lyrically. Back in the game as a changed man, Bieber took the time to hone his dulcet vocals and deep tunes for “Changes,” serving as an homage to his wife. Needless to say, this album proves that their honeymoon stage is still far from over.

 “This is an album I wrote in the first year of our marriage,” confessed Bieber to Zane Lowe. “It’s so fresh, and there’s so much more to learn about commitment and building trust and foundation.” As the muse for the album, Hailey gave more depth to some sensual, head-bopping jams like “Habitual,” “Come Around Me” and “Running Over.” Acoustic-driven tracks like “Changes” and “That’s What Love Is” really showcase Bieber’s wholehearted vocals. Featuring Oakland’s best, Kehlani, “Get Me” is a seductive, hypnotic groove, which guarantees satisfaction for listeners. 

With six other features from distinguished musical artists like Travis Scott, Post Malone and Quavo, “Changes” is an album that should be experienced by two. 

Justin Bieber will start his Changes Tour this summer on May 14 in Seattle, Washington, and he will visit Texas on June 27 in Arlington and July 2 in Houston. To find out more, visit https://www.justinbiebermusic.com/tour.