Justin Timberlake has made a grand re-entry into the music scene with “Everything I Thought It Was,” marking his first studio album release since “Man of the Woods” in 2018. Diverging from his previous experimentation with country and Americana, this album sees Timberlake making a strong pivot back towards his roots in rhythmic pop and dance music, underscored by a significant collaboration with producer Timbaland. Notably, the album includes a direct nod to his earlier work with a throwback to the catchy call-and-response style of “Señorita” in his new track “My Favorite Drug,” signaling both a return to form and an evolution of his sound.

Beyond the catchy beats and infectious melodies, Timberlake uses this album as a platform to engage with his public persona and past controversies head-on, particularly in the introspective bookend tracks “Memphis” and “Conditions.” Here, he reflects on his journey through fame and the complex reality behind his previously unblemished celebrity image. While Timberlake has already expressed in concerts a defiance against apologizing for past actions, these tracks reveal a more nuanced self-examination and an acknowledgment of change. Fans might be coming for the hits, but they’ll find layers to unpack, showing that even after these years, Timberlake can still surprise—and yes, let’s hope it doesn’t take another half-decade for the next surprise.