November 28, 2009

By Kelsey Paine

Robin Thicke delivers his signature smooth talk on "Sex Therapy," the first single from his as-yet-untitled fourth album. Producers Polow Da Don and Hot Sauce set up a languorous backbeat with understated synths and soft drum kicks, while Thicke turns the heat all the way up. "Stressed out, uptight, overworked, wound up/Unleash what you got, let's explore your naughty side," the singer croons. "Just let me love you, lay right here, I'll be your fantasy/Give you sex therapy." The come-hither lyrics, accompanied by Thicke's breathy falsetto and deep bass undertones, give the song an unforced eroticism that feels ideal for lovers of romance. Thicke's stripped-down brand of R&B is of an ultra-suggestive nature, but his earnest vocal performance is what ultimately keeps it classy.

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