The ArchAndroid

Editors’ Notes Janelle Monáe is an optimist with purpose. On her debut, she plays an android in a dystopian future (detailed on “Locked Inside”), and endangers her existence by falling in love with a human on “Oh, Maker.” Despite a downbeat story line inspired by the German expressionist classic Metropolis, the music brims with joy. Her Wondaland production team takes cues from James Brown and Stevie Wonder, adding classical overtures and a dazzling pop sheen to romps like “Tightrope” and “Cold War.” Monáe herself is a powerhouse singer (and rapper) with a big personality to match.