I have to admit that I did not hear the demo version of Hold It Against Me, Britney Spears’ so-called ‘comeback single.’ I wanted to hear the final version alone. I am not really that guy who rejoices when leaks sprout out of nowhere. However, there is no denying that I had a bit high expectations for the new single by Britney. I somehow liked ’3′ even though it had its fair share of problems. Does Hold It Against Me possess problems of its own?

Unfortunately, the answer is yes. Britney may be flawless for some people but the truth is she is not. For those who might not know, the track is produced by Dr. Luke and Max Martin but (fortunately) the product does not sound like a Katy Perry-infused track. The track may not sound like a Katy Perry track but the problem is it sounds generic.

Yes, you read that right. I just said that Hold It Against Me sounds generic. The beat is surprisingly not that filthy. It might make some people dance until their bodies give up but for the most part, I was left asking for more from Britney. Considering the fact that she obviously has the talent, I am not wrong to ask for more from her, right?

The chorus is not revolutionary either. By not revolutionary, I mean that the single is not earth-shattering nor insanely genius. However, the chorus does a good job in allowing Britney’ untainted vocals to shine. Again, I was left asking for more.

If there is one element of the track that really got me giddy, it would be the breakdown. The dubstep-heavy breakdown is absolutely the best element that the track has to offer. The transition provided by the trance beats that lead the listener back into the track is musical gold as well.

Vocally, the track is not that impressive but it does suffice. Actually, it does not sound like those Auto Tune-infested crap that have invaded the airwaves in recent memory. I guess kudos goes to Britney for actually sounding fresh with her new offering.

Hold It Against Me is definitely better than ’3.’ It does not match the quality of ‘Toxic’ which somehow lessens its appeal. I do think people have overrated the track which is a bit sad. Without a doubt, Britney can still do it. I just hope her album delivers better songs than Hold It Against Me.

Date Released: January 11, 2011
Label: Jive Records