Whoa, Nelly! You’ve done it again! With 7, her first album in seven years, Nelly Furtado struts back into our lives at just the right moment, delivering a shimmering collection that feels like a love letter to her 2000s roots while embracing fresh, playful twists. Aptly titled and arriving like a perfectly-timed text from your old lover, 7 is brimming with all the reasons we first fell for her—only this time, she’s bolder, freer, and just a little more mischievous.
The opening track, “Showstopper,” sets the tone perfectly with its sultry, moody vibe, drawing listeners in and setting the stage for what’s to come. This seamlessly transitions into the bilingual “Corazón,” featuring Bomba Estéreo. With its infectious Latin beats and echoes of the Loose era, the track captures a sense of freedom and joy, especially as Nelly sings, “de corazón, no puedo parar,” during the chorus. Then comes “Love Bites,” the spicy ménage à trois with SG Lewis and Tove Lo —a cheeky, house-infused electropop anthem that would feel right at home on Madonna’s Erotica. Nelly’s still got the bite, and oh, how we love it.
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When the tempo slows, Furtado delivers a standout moment with “Floodgate.” Though just over two minutes long, the dreamy, mellow track feels like pure escapism. The stripped-back piano ballad “All Comes Back” follows, tugging at the heartstrings with poignant lyrics about returning to what was once left behind. Charlotte Day Wilson’s collaboration adds depth, and together, they explore themes of self-reflection and resilience with a quiet intensity.
Furtado balances these introspective moments with tracks that keep the energy alive. “Better Than Ever” stands out as a triumphant anthem, a celebration of resilience and growth. With lyrics like “I’m better than ever, you changed the weather,” it’s a powerful reminder of the strength that comes from moving forward and embracing personal evolution.
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Other surprises include the sparkly “Ready For Myself,” which feels like a nod to Kylie Minogue’s signature style, and “Take Me Down,” where playful yodeling brings a fresh and unexpected twist. The album wraps with “Honesty,” a retro-inspired track that evokes carefree nostalgia and the spirit of Madonna’s “Holiday.”
With 7, Nelly Furtado reaffirms her place as an artist who continually evolves while staying true to her unique voice. Instead of relying on nostalgia or familiar formulas, she embraces experimentation and delivers a collection of songs that feel vibrant and fresh. This album is a testament to her versatility and creativity, serving as a reminder of why she remains such a distinctive and enduring presence in music. 7 is the soundtrack for rediscovering joy, reflecting on growth, and celebrating life.
