NM:It also seems as though Bieber is a very mature musician for his age, and not just because he makes wonderful throwback R&B tracks like “Catching Feelings” and the aforementioned “Die in Your Arms.” Listening toBelieve, it struck me how much Bieber’s drumming roots add to the sound of the record. He’s not playing drums anywhere, of course, but even on those Euro-dance numbers, they’re always different. I mean, the hook to “Thought of You” is a step away from moombahton. What are your thoughts?
MJ:I should note that when I first heard “Thought Of You” I didn’t think of moombahton or Diplo (who produced it), but of lumbering ’80s arena rock—the big keyboard downbeats on the verses giving way to that soaring chorus.
Very Greatest American Hero. Maybe that’s his next move!
Maura Johnston and Nick Murray have a friendly chat about Justin Bieber’s Believe.
the above song is very good btw, though not my favorite on the record