Calvin Harris disguises ‘CUBA’ with verses from Big Sean, renames it ‘Open Wide’
Calvin Harris set flavorful expectations for his upcoming album after letting loose a 2014 take on acid house. While the last single “Slow Acid” became an instant favorite, his newest is nothing short of a head-scratcher. When the tracklisting for Motion was unveiled, a Big Sean feature on “Open Wide” was hope for Calvin trying his hand at some hip-hop production.
Turns out, that’s far from the case. The record, released today, is merely his instrumental hit “CUBA” laced with a pair of Big Sean verses. When the production and rap heavyweights “collaborate” something fresh — ahead of the curve, at least — should be the product. But “Open Wide” isn’t exactly a “collaboration.” The drop takes hold where there should naturally be a chorus, which comes across sonically confusing. Best part of the refurbished track? Big Sean’s lyric: “I love that ass, but I hate that f*cking outfit.”
Editors’ Note: I’m still holding on to my high hopes for the Gwen Stefani “collaboration.”