Femme Fatale (Album Cover)

I’m sure most of you guys have heard the clips from the album and a couple of leaked tracks in full. But it was never expected to ’surface’ 2 weeks before it’s release date (29th March in the US) eh? Well, should’ve seen it coming!!

Britney’s 7th studio album, about 2 1/2 years since her last effort, has frequent collaborators Max Martin and Dr. Luke serving as this album’s executive producers. Is it a good or a bad move?? As both producers are Ke$ha’s too, inevitable to have similarities, am I right?

First Impressions
To be honest, I wasn’t impressed with HIAM & TTWE. But the clips sounds promising enough for me to pursue on. With “Circus” being disappointing for me, I really hope that she would follow up and update the sound of “Blackout“. Granted, I was. This era’s effort is her most polished yet! The vibe and sound is more towards tech-pop (by that, i don’t mean by techno. It’s the technicality of raw electro) as compared to being too urban as reported.

Track Review

• Till The World Ends
  The album’s 2nd single and features the triple threat writing credits of Dr Luke, Max Martin and Ke$ha. This track basically has a ‘jump-jump’ kinda moment. The chorus sounds like a hint of Ke$ha’s “Blow“, which sounds more superior as compared to TTWE. A safe choice as a feel-good single .
• Hold It Against Me
  Introduced by the dark pulsating beats, the lead single always serves as a proper gauge on how the album’s gonna be like. Definitely a Britney record for sure, I’m relieved with the fact that it sounds nothing like what’s out there in the radio now.
• Inside Out
  Slowing the tempo down a notch, Britney’s bringing on the sensuality! A break-up song that consists of suggestive lyrics about going to ‘bed’ one more time before ending a relationship.
• I Wanna Go
  The whistles at the bridge are sure catchy. There’s something familiar with the structure of the chorus, which sounds like an Usher track. Brit’s singing out her dirty fantasies! (“Touch of My Hand“??)
• How I Roll
  A production by Bloodshy & Avant, this ‘easy-listening’ track is unique from a perspective. A laid back Britney at best.
• (Drop Dead) Beautiful [Feat. Sabi]
  The title’s being sung repetitively is driving me insane, in a bad way. She sound so monotonous! I rather trade this with the track that William Orbit and Klas Ahlund did!
• Seal It With A Kiss
  Another perfect example of how this era’s sound is gonna be. Tech-pop!! The dubstep breakdown appears on this track too.
• Big Fat Bass (Feat. will.i.am)
  A distant cousin of any track from BEP’s “The Beginning“. But of course, it’s by will.i.am. I’m rather intrigue by this collab. It’s either you love or hate this track.
• Trouble for Me
  It actually has been awhile that we’ve heard Britney sing. This track by Fraser T. Smith and Livvi Franc (Now I’m That Bitch, Automatik) is one of the highlights of the album. Loving this track!!
• Trip To Your Heart
  There seem to be a trend. Blackout’s “Heaven On Earth“, Circus’ “Unusual You” and Femme’s “Trip To Your Heart” flows rather well as a trilogy. It serves as a memory of Brit’s electropop love song/ballad which gonna be her signature tune too. Another highlight.
• Gasoline
  Metaphoring herself to a car and stating her ‘heart only runs on supreme’, “Gasoline” drifts towards a heavier beat which Brit hasn’t explored before.
• Criminal
  Flutes (?!) This folk/country sound may shock some fans. I applaud her for pairing such a tune with dark lyrics.

Final Verdict

Trading typically chart-friendly tunes like Toxic and Womanizer for a more edgier vibe, loyal Brit fans might have a tough time adjusting to this new sound. Brit’s smart in adapting and not sound like any of her fellow peers in the mainstream line now. Plus she doesn’t redicule and reduce herself to gimmicks (Little Monsters??!!). Usually, her bonus tracks are worth the space in the album too. Again, I just wish the track by William Orbit and Klas Ahlund did materialise. Otherwise, this album displays maturity from the Queen of Dance herself. Either you like it or you don’t. For me, I’m satisfied. =)

This album scores a 3.5 out of 5.

Body Talk (Compilation album cover)

As the year comes to a new beginning, everyone (almost) definitely gets in the holiday mood! It was a special day a couple of days ago as it’s Dirrtysean’s and my B’dae!! =) This will be the first(!!) album review for the year, before I round up the year’s (2010) best. I know I’ve been lacking in reviews recently due to national commitments. =( Gotta backlog a few into next year I guess. =X I’ll present this review in a special manner, according to it’s releases (Part 1, 2, 3) as the last ‘compilation omits some tracks from the first 2 parts. Just wanna present this ‘era’ in a justifiable manner! Oh, this is my album(s) of the year btw!

Body Talk Pt. 1

Considered as the fifth studio album by Robyn, it is the first part of the Body Talk series, which consists of three mini-albums. “Dancing on My Own” was the only single from the album. Robyn promoted this album with the All Hearts Tour, co-headlining with Kelis!

In various interviews, Robyn stated that It’s been 5 years since “Robyn” (the album) and didn’t want to wait with a release until they are all recorded, so she decided to start putting them out right away. The idea is on releasing songs, touring them, and making some more songs. Part 1 is mainly produced by Klas Åhlund, Röyksopp, Diplo and Patrick Berger.

Robyn stated the main lyrical theme of the album as: “It’s about being really lonely, but I think it’s interesting to put that idea in a club where a lot of people are crammed into a small room.” Another theme prevalent on the album is “technology versus humanity”. (“Bionic” much???) =X

I would consider Part 1 as a very heavy ‘appetizer’ for the trilogy. Following the trend of melancholic pop, this album explores the dark & lonely side of an individual.

Track Listing

• Don’t Fucking Tell Me What to Do
  What’s killing you at the moment?? Robyn lists out what annoys her in this track. Quite an original introduction to the trilogy. =)
• Fembot
  Robyn’s definitely has “a lotta automatic booty applications” and is one hot “Fembot”! Hooks aplenty, infectious to the max!! Fembots has feelings too, how about Manbots?? =P
• Dancing on My Own
  The only single from the album (the rest are all promo singles). The infectious tune and epic lyrics make this song a heartbreaking dancefloor nugget! One of the best singles of the year!!
• Cry When You Get Older
  “Love hurts when you do it right”. Robyn tries her hand in relationship advice, electro-style!! It’s a pure upbeat bubblegum confection!
• Dancehall Queen
  Initially hyped and titled as “No Hassle“, this Diplo produced track sees Robyn dabbling with Dancehall (but of course!). Bobbing to this reggae-influenced track is adviseable!
• None of Dem (featuring Röyksopp)
  Produced by Röyksopp, Robyn laments on everyone’s failure to rise to her lofty standards with dark, booming, pulsating beats.
• Hang With Me (Acoustic Version)
  A stripped down preview of the song which is going to be in Part 2, the piano-driven track sends a message across on “treat me nicely and I’ll reciprocate”. True True.
• Jag vet en dejlig Rosa
  This is a recording of a traditional Swedish folk song, famously recorded by jazz singer Monica Zetterlund. Robyn follow suit and she gave an impeccable performance of this track at the Nobel Prize Ceremony in 2010.

Body Talk Pt. 2

The ‘main course’ of the trilogy, bright synth and massive hooks dominates Part 2! Trading harsh bass of Part 1 for slicker synth beeps, it’s straight-up dancier/funkier/clubbier! A mainstream dance-floor ready album that puts most pop wannabes to shame!

Track Listing

• In My Eyes
  Remember Robyn’s megahit “With Every Heartbeat” (UK #1!), Kleerup co-produced this track too! Giving a shout-out to her own record label, Konichiwa Records, it’s an all dance extravaganza from this track onwards. As Robyn sings, “Put your dancing shoes and do it again!”.
• Include Me Out
  The syths are so arresting that you gotta hear it for yourself to experience it!! One word, Brilliant!
• Hang With Me
  The studio version as opposed to the acoustic edit on Part 1. Also the only single from Part 2, now it’s been given the full-on Robyn disco-pop treatment! As colossal as “Dancing On My Own“!
• Love Kills
  “Love Kills” reflects the downside of needing someone, dealing with a breakup’s immediate aftermath. “In this cold hard world, so check yourself. Don’t you know that Love Kills!”.
• We Dance To The Beat
  Looping in a similiar fashion with its spoken-word structure like Part 1’s “Don’t Fucking Tell Me What To Do“, this song plays a little on uptempo dubstep.
• Criminal Intent
  An album highlight and this song is not included in the ”Body Talk” final compilation! (That’s why I said to get all 3 in seperates!) Yet again, Diplo handles this track with a moody but rebellious vibe! Awesome delivery by Robyn!
• U Should Know Better (featuring Snoop Dogg)
  It might be deemed as weird but their collab works! A fun 80’s rave track. =)
• Indestructible (Acoustic Version)
  As with Part 1, the next(1st) single in part 3 will get an acoustic treatment first before its glorified “Robyn” edit! The orchestral rendition gives me a shrill! Again, smooth vocal delivery is without a doubt!
• Bad Gal (with Savage Skulls & Douster)
  Being an iTunes bonus track, I always link this track with a bubbly and bouncy jungle vibe! =X

Body Talk Pt. 3

For ‘dessert’, Part 3 is the shortest of the bunch (only 5 tracks), but it also might be the best!

Track Listing

• Indestructible
  Switching up the acoustic/orchestral with syth, this single encapsulates the entire (almost) essence of the entire Body Talk trilogy! Every beat means something!
• Time Machine
  This song reunites Robyn with Swedish producer Max Martin, who was responsible for producing Robyn’s US breakthrough hits “Do You Know (What It Takes)” and “Show Me Love“, which both charted inside the top ten of the Billboard Hot 100 in 1996 and 1997. As you guys know, Max produced tons of Brit’s hit too! We always wanna turn back time, but in reality we can’t. A must listen!
• Call Your Girlfriend
  A breakup-anthem about dumping someone. 3 great songs in a row so far, back-to-back! This song chides those who doesn’t have a clean breakup!
• Get Myself Togther
  Sounds like a late 90’s pop number, nostalgic yet aint dated. Fist-in-the-air anthem! =)
• Stars 4-Ever
  Closing the album with an 80’s sounding disco/pop-stomper, a great song to slow the album down and a nice song to make out to! (That would be uber cute!) =P

Final Verdict
The thing with Robyn is that her powerful vocal delivery evokes E.M.O, paired with spot-on lyrics and immaculate production elevates the entire trilogy into PERFECTION territory! As backed by tons of reputable critics (Billboard, Rolling Stones, MTV), without a doubt that this album deserves a spot as one of the albums of the year and for the decade! It’s a must to get the entire trilogy for your music collection!

Loud (Album Cover)

Roughly a year since the release of her previous album, “Rated R“, Rihanna is back with her 5th studio album, “Loud“. Recording sessions began in February 2010 and continued over a period of six months, concluding in August 2010. The album was released in the US on 16th Nov 2010. Rihanna stated that the album would be named Loud, saying to “get Loud everybody, get crazy and get excited.” Really, RiRi?? *raises eyebrows*

First Impressions
While “Good Girl Gone Bad“, is one of the best pop albums of its decade, and “Rated R“, which is considered as one of the most fascinating pop albums due to the fact it reflects the period that Rihanna has gone through. Though quite a dark and deep record, “Rated R” still churned out hits, all of the singles are in the Top 10 and “Rude Boy” was a #1 hit!

With GGGB, it only takes 2 full listen to understand and grasp the concept and vibe. Subsequently, “Rated R” with 5 listens. But with “Loud“, I need at least 10 times of playback to get it’s meaning. That doesn’t mean the album’s bad, I feel that it’s in pieces with a certain cohesiveness. The overall sound of this record is between “A Girl Like Me” and GGGB. I’m quite surprised she embraced her roots with the carribean sound and making it sound modern. The album is primarily produced by Stargate (mostly), Polow Da Don and Tricky Stewart. While there’s nothing groundbreaking with this album, it’s still an enjoyable album to listen to. Just good, not great; Like, not Love. The album debuted on the Billboard 200 albums chart at number 3 and critics seems to react positively to this album. Hmmmm….

Track by Track Review

• S&M
  Unmistakably a Stargate tune, the album opener paves a decent tune to the rest of the record. At least she doesn’t go an overkill in the whorish lyrical department. Potentially a 3rd single, as it’s well-liked by fans. I wouldn’t mind. =)
• What’s My Name? (Feat. Drake)
  Penned by Stargate and Ester Dean too, the 2nd single is already a #1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart! If you listen to the song carefully, there’s a hit of ska and reggae influence in addition to the hip-hop/R&B beats layered on top. I just prefer the lone version by Rihanna!
• Cheers (Drink to That)
  The song interpolates Avril Lavigne’s annoying yelp from “I’m With You“. Weird choice for a sample indeed. As cited by most critics, it’s a feel-good-chugging-drinks kinda track.
• Fading
  Sampling “One By One“, a track by Enya from “A Day Without Rain“, the beginning of this track does have an ethereal vibe to it. What makes this song listenable is the massive sing-a-long pop-ish hook!! “It’s too late, you’re fading away“!!! =D
• Only Girl (In The World)
  There’s much to talk about for this track (which is also personally one of my faves from the album)! Lead single, a #1 hit on Billboard! She made chart history by topping it after her 2nd single got the tops! Going with the Eurodance/Trance-pop sound, the throbbing bassline and strong chorus makes this a top-notch track. Definitely club-ready, this song is on par or even surpasses “Don’t Stop The Music“!
• California King Bed
  Another track produced by The Runners, Rihanna beautifully delivered the heart-wrenching ballad, which is about the waking death of a relationship; the stage of limbo before the final crash.
• Man Down
  Exploring her Carribean roots, the playful reggae bounce on this track is catchy! Co-written by fellow Barbadan, Shontelle, this dancehall number is convincing enough that she’s confident in handle such tracks with ease with sounding forced. It’s basically about a woman who shoots a man, and she narrates/sings about it!
• Raining Men (Feat. Nicki Minaj)
  Another one of my fave tracks from the album (highlight!!), the spotlight-stealing Nicki Minaj takes control of this track instead while RiRi feels like an accompliment. It can’t be help as Nicki literally steals the scene whenever she has guest verses! Dubbed as the Lady Gaga of hip-hop, Nicki’s the one to watch (would be reviewing her album too!). The air-sirens are addictive in this MIA-sounding track. Loving it!!
• Complicated
  A HUGE power-ballad written and produced by Tricky Stewart and Ester Dean. You literally can feel the echo-effect of RiRi’s voice on the chorus. The difficulty of trying to love someone but he/she doesn’t appreciates. Sigh….
• Skin
  With a hint of dubstep, she sounds sexy on this track! The effortless delivery makes it believable. =)
• Love the Way You Lie (Part II) (Feat. Eminem)
  My take on it is that even though Rihanna’s verse is definitely memorable to everyone, the lyrics are rather a little overrated! No doubt it’s catchy and has the famous hook that makes it a hit, you won’t find me chanting to this one though. Nobody likes it when they’re being lied to!! Makes no cow-sense to me. =X A love/hate on this track as RiRi still delivers beautifully!

Final Verdict

Being compared to Beyonce seems unfair, as Bee shakes her tush real well (that’s about it!!). What makes RiRi successful is that she worked really hard to get to where she is now. She sounds comfortable on each track, confident as ever. Even though she didn’t have a hand in writing this record (she did with “Rated R”), it’s undeniably a Rihanna album! While there isn’t a song that’ll be as EPIC as “Umbrella” (believe me, that song’s a colossal classic now), this record displays Rihanna’s maturity in terms of her vocal delivery and the input of a massive effort. Having 2 number 1 singles from this album proves that point! With 5 albums in her belt, Rihanna’s here to stay and is definitely part of our pop culture!

I just wished she would pushed it a little and based the album on “Who’s That Chick“!! (A collab that she did with David Guetta) That would be funtastic!

The album scores a 3.5 out of 5.

Teenage Dream (Album Cover)

Sorry for the late one on this!!! “Teenage Dream” is the second mainstream offering and third studio album (the 1st being the rare Katy Hudson album) overall, by Katy Perry. It was released in the US on August 24, 2010. The album spawned 3 successful singles, “California Gurls“, “Teenage Dream” & “Firework“! (Chronologically)

First Impressions

Sophomore albums are usually tricky. It’s a “make it or break it” phase. For Katy, she garnered massive publicity through questionable antics of “I Kissed A Girl” and the gay bashing, “Ur So Gay“. She toned down a little for subsequent singles like the uber catchy “Hot & Cold“, “Waking Up in Vegas” & the endearing “Thinking Of You“. Rounding off the “One of The Boys” era, tons of critics dismissed her as a one note, thinking that she would continue this trend for her sophomore. Seems like Katy had the last laugh after all!

With “California Gurls” being the summer anthem of 2010, Katy focused and explored this album with teenage dream in mind. The album is mainly produced by Max Martin, Dr Luke, Stargate, Greg Wells & Tricky Stewart; with Katy involving in writing all the songs from the album. Listening once through, it’s definitely a true blue Pop record with memorable songs to boot! Truthfully speaking, one of the best albums of 2010!

Track by Track Review

• Teenage Dream
  Title track and 2nd single from the album. A midtempo, guitar-riffs filled number by Dr. Luke, Benny Blanco & Max Martin, this song encompasses the euphoric & intense feelings of being in love as a teenager. The lyrics refers to being with a lover that makes one feel like a teenager, about the feelings of commitment and security that it brings. They also talk about taking the relationship further. With these points being addressed, this song is appropriately used in the recent esp of “Glee“, performed by Blaine. There’s no doubt about that. Oh, this song is a #1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart!
• Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)
  One of my fave songs from the album! Dubbed as the “Waking Up in Vegas” of this album, it obviously serves as a party track that pairs with clever and addictive lyrics! Woohoo!!! I personally would make this as a single, as the vid would be enjoyable to shoot too.
• California Gurls (Feat. Snoop Dogg)
  Lead single off the album. Wasn’t too hyped about this song when it first released to the radio. The song is an answer song to “Empire State of Mind“, with “Empire” for NYC and “California” for Cali. (obviously!). Worthy of being the summer tune of 2010! Another #1 hit for Katy btw!!
• Firework
  3rd single. As previously mentioned in the video review that I’ve posted, this song is about self/personal acceptance. Loads of people will relate to this track, as with teenage dream. Just that this track has a positive message going across. I really thank the stars that it’s being released as a single before the annoying “Peacock“, which brings me…….
• Peacock
  This song begs & pleads for a boy to show her his “Peacock”! Annoying catchy, but not in a good way. I acknowledge its hook, but not crassy lyrical delivery. Marring the entire vibe of the whole album, it’s unfortunately (to my horror!) the 4th single of the album. I think there’ll be an outburst of feather boas or peacock feathers for this vid. =X
• Circle the Drain
  Channeling her inner Alanis Morissette/Joan Jett, Katy vents off a self-destructive ex (Travie McCoy) on his drug addiction. I always pretend to be a Rockstar when this track comes on! Another one of my fave tracks.
• The One That Got Away
  The song that reminded me of my ex. =’( Decisions, decisions. There’s loads of “What If’s” to think about. Past, Present and Future. A relatable song too.
• E.T.
  A rave-influenced ballad, might seem rather dark for some. I’m alright with this track. Is it me, or does this track sounds a little like Tatu’s “All the Things She Said“?
• Who Am I Living For?
  Slowing things down from here, Katy dabbles in self-pity with this track. Love the bridge building to the chorus.
• Pearl
  Another song with a positive message in it. Used to be, but always will be. Cause it’s a fact you had been it. And you reclaim what you lost. Love this track!!
• Hummingbird Heartbeat
  Hmm, losing one’s viginity to someone you like is ok right?? LOL, lyrics has a hidden suggestive meaning to it. At least this song is done tastefully in comparison with “Peacock”!
• Not Like The Movies
  Album closer given the acoustic treatment, the song is a novel that in reality are never equal to the love stories of the great productions film. Ah, the harsh and cruel reality.

Final Verdict
There’s no doubt that Katy would have a shot at winning the “Best Female Pop Vocal” award at the Grammy’s next year. Perhaps a best album nomination even?? But loads of critics panned this album as well, stating that it’s a little shallow. But even they themselves admitted that Katy knows what the “Pop” industry wants and executed it well. For teens and young adults, this album connects and relates to them well. Katy’s like the explicit counterpart of Taylor Swift, so don’t compare her with the trashy Ke$ha!!

This album scores a 4 out of 5.

Headlines! (Album Cover)

“Headlines!” is the first EP (or mini album) by The Saturdays!! The EP serves as the bridge between the group’s second studio album, “Wordshaker” and their upcoming third studio album. It was released in the UK on 16 August 2010 by Fascination Records, now being absorbed back to Polydor. (They should invest more on Sophie-EB too!!).

First Impressions

The mini album includes previous singles, “Forever is Over” and “Ego” as well as a new mix of “One Shot” from Wordshaker plus five new songs. One of these is a cover of the song “Died in Your Eyes”, originally by Kristinia DeBarge, from her 2009 album “Exposed“.

This EP serves as a taster of what’s to come for their 3rd LP release. By stuffing the singles (and better tracks) from Wordshaker and putting 5 spanking new songs, it somewhat seems like a value for fans and casual listeners alike. They are still trying to match the brillant sound from their debut though.

The EP is the standard Sats sound, better as compared to “Wordshaker” (I wonder on why they left out the awesome title track for this EP). I shall re-evaluate their previous singles too so as to complete the whole ‘package’. =)

Track by Track Review

• Missing You
  A mid-tempo, electro-tinged ballad. Didn’t ‘feel’ this song at first, but it’s a grower. The lyrics centred around on being in a relationship with the passion has gone but still being addicted to the love that used to be, which results in it being surprisingly ‘dark’. Oh, the gals look fab in their maxi dresses in the vid btw. As most critics pointed out, not quite of a comeback track, but it’s alright for me.
• Ego
  Probably their most well-known hit since “Up” & “Work”, it’s what and why we love the Sats for!! One of the best songs from the Sats musicology.
• Higher
  2nd single. The signature synthy sound is feeling as fiesty as ever in typical Sats fashion! Catchy lyrics, checked. Addictive chorus, checked. This anthemic song is close to pop-perfection. Thank goodness they didn’t use the Flo Rida version for the vid. The additional rap parts are crappy and unnecessary!! I’m gonna lift it, lift it HIGH-YER!! Woots!!
• Forever is Over
  So basically, there are 2 camps for this song. The For/Against for the sudden change in the sound back then. I personally think the synth-rock vibe works, & it’s memorable! Love the Buzz Junkies remix too!!
• Died in your Eyes
  A cover of the original song by American singer-songwriter Kristinia DeBarge, taken from her debut studio album Exposed (2009). It’s a shame that Kristinia DeBarge didn’t release this song as a single. Given the Sats treatment, the song sounds a little Ryan Tedder-esque (produced). An accompaniment with “Missing You“.
• Karma
  Anotherr fun track!! Though some parts of the lyrics are a little off. =X You don’t throw your own broken heart away that easily. Haha.
• Puppet
  Having an explosive chorus, puppuppuppet sounds a little like pokpokpoker face though. =P
• One Shot (Starsmith Mix)
  It aint really a remix, just a re-edit on the chorus portion. Scattered a little more syth-beats here and there. Subtle difference.

Final Verdict
Overall, the EP is what we come to expect (and love) from the Sats. This isn’t bad, but proclaiming it as fantastic is a little too much. Since we all love the power-pop sound that they have to offer, so their management decided to bank in on that sound. There’s nothing wrong about it, but it’ll get repetitive after some time, which results in nothing groundbreaking and without any breakthough. That’s bad in modern music standards.

With Girls Aloud (for the time being) and the Sugababes out of the way, the Saturdays has come to fill the void. But can they be around for long?? Hopefully their 3rd studio album effort holds the answer.

This EP scores a 3.5 out of 5.

In Love & War (Album Cover)

Here’s a ‘new’ section which I would be doing. Worthy albums which I’ve not reviewed before and passed 3 months of its release, I’ll chuck it in this section. The first honorary would be Amerie!! Any albums I’ll try my best to review, cause I’ve binding ‘commitments’ for the time-being. =( Rest assured, I always do the more anticipated ones first. =)

“In Love & War” is the the fourth studio album by Amerie, already released on November 3rd 2009, by Def Jam Recordings. The album has received generally positive reviews from music critics, it’s rather easy to see (hear) why.

First Impressions
As compared with the sound of her brillant 3rd album, “Because I Love It“, she sorta turn back time and experiments with old school “Funk & B” (Funk + R&B) beats. It doesn’t sound dated and at the same time, it’s current enough to capture the listeners’ attention (including mine).

All tracks are co-written by Amerie herself, with the producers she’ve collaborated. Impressive. This album surprised me in a good way.

If Beyonce’s “B’day” and Solange’s “Sol-Angel and The Hadley St. Dreams” were to have mash up, this would be their love child. Only better!!!! The Knowles Sisters don’t stand a chance in terms of music quality.

Standout Tracks

• Tell Me You Love Me
  Album opener. As usual, the first track always sets the tone of the album. This album is no exception. There are some albums with songs all over the place, which would result in a mess. A promising start. =)
• Heard ‘Em All
  2nd single. Uncredited vocals by Sean Garrett. A definite BANGER!!! Don’t understand why this song didn’t really take off when it’s supposed to. Any uptempo R&B female artist would KILL to record this song. Plus, the Sean Kingston reference is interesting.
• Dangerous
  Could fit in any soundtrack of a retro action movie. Perhaps a “Bond” movie??
• Higher
  The structure of this song reminds me of one of her best songs to date, “Gotta Work“. One of my faves from the album.
• Why R U
  First single. This song is about infatuation. Again, I question why this song isn’t topping the R&B charts. If not, in the mainstream chart. I don’t really care though. This song is uber catchy!!! The funky old school R&B beats really works well in this song.
• Pretty Brown
  Features Trey Songz. The verses by him are rather good. This track reminds me of a song that Mary J. Blige would do.
• More Than Love
  Features Faboulous. Another song with a catchy chorus by Amerie. An ok song though. Describes about trust issues.
• Red Eye
  A slow jam, ala Keri Hilson. Not as boring as Keri’s stuff though, cause Amerie’s voice is rather attractive. =)
• The Flowers
  A nice “Funk & B” ballad. Its lyrics (the chorus) keeps repeating in my head.
• Different People
  Been listening to this track alot lately. It does take a few listens to appreciate this song, and the lyrics struck a cord in me.
• Dear John
  This song tells a story. Wish there’ll be a video for this song, but yeah. Sigh. A great pop/R&B ballad. Quite a bitter song to end the album.

Final Verdict
Moving over to Def Jam is a pretty good move. Having access to excellent producers is a plus point too. The major problem that hinders the success of this album is the promotion. Amerie herself is a good vocalist, and she’s definitely not a one-hit wonder, as proven with her 4 studio albums on her belt.

This album reeks of a nomination for a Grammy of “Best R&B Album”. It’s a pity that it isn’t selling well. Hope she’ll not slipped the radar yet again after the release of this album. Amerie deserves a place in the music industry, talented girl she is, just lack of a little luck. One of the underrated albums of 2009.

This album scores a 4 out of 5.

Recommended Tracks
Amerie – Heard ‘Em All
Amerie – Why R U
Amerie – Different People

Bionic (Album Cover)

No doubt this record is one of the highly anticipated LPs of Year 2010, as it’s her first studio album in four years since 2006’s “Back to Basics“!!! Stylized as {Bi~ΟΠ~iC}, the album boasts a mixture of talented artists and producers that Christina chose to work with.

Onboard the project are DJ Switch & John Hill, which are both Santigold and M.I.A frequent collaborators (and both artists worked on this album too!!). On the urban genre, we have Ester Dean, Focus, Tricky Stewart, Polow da Don & Claude Kelly. Rounding up the rest, there’s Linda Perry (definitely), Sia, Ladytron and Le Tigre.

{Bi~ΟΠ~iC} will be released on June 7th, 2010 in the UK and June 8th, 2010 in the US. Some territories have already gotten the chance to get the album ’cause the release date is June 4th!!!

First Impressions

I had SKY HIGH expectations on the sound of this album as Xtina expressed countless times on the futuristic direction for the album. Being a synth/electro lover myself, obviously I’ll be hyped!!! When “Genie 2.0” debuted, my eyes gleamed upon hearing it. I’m sure most would agree with me that it’s a right path to go.

Fast forward to March 30th 2010, Xtina shocked me (and countless listeners too) with “Not Myself Tonight“, also affectionately known as NMT. Urm, yes, it’s still electro-pop, but the urban vibe still lingers. I’m not really amused with the whole image she’s trying to portray on the single sleeve and the video. More on that on the track by track review later on.

After listening to the entire deluxe edition of the album on repeat mode, I feel like the album needs some quality control with its tracklisting. Some songs don’t really blend in with each other. Consistency and cohesiveness are the key. The album sounds messy and patchy at places. But, there are songs in this album which are the best she’ve ever released in her musical career so far.

Track by Track Review

• Bionic
  Many could hear the Santigold influence in this track, as it sounds disturbingly similar to Santigold’s “Creator“. Well, the track involves DJ Switch and John Hill, sans Santigold herself. It’s actually a great opener track to introduce this album with. A little electro-dancehall pop number. I love the pre-chorus hook.
• Not Myself Tonight
  Lead single from the album. It only peaked at number 23 on the Billboard Hot 100 (debut spot!!) and radio shuns it. Albeit my intial shock from the image and the video, the song is in fact, good! Many sees this single as the “Dirrty” for this album. The sound is definitely for the radio, whether you like it or not. Like how Christina put it, “And if you don’t like it, F**K you”.
• Woohoo (Feat. Nicki Minaj)
  What seems to be the leak after NMT premiered on airplay is going to her 2nd single. *Raises eyebrows* another urban souding track!!! It started to become questionable on the futuristic aspect. Fear not, it’s only the 2nd track. Although many sees this move as the ’sinking ship’ track, it’s ideal for a summer release. Quite an explicit dancehall number, Nicki’s presence adds flavour to this naughty track. I’m sure the video would be sexually charged too. Oh wells…
• Elastic Love
  Like finally!!! 2 tracks apart from the brilliant album opener, be prepared for some ear-gasm experience!!! The song sounds so fantastic on album quality and with at least a decent sound system. Co-written by M.I.A, DJ Switch, John Hill and herself, the layers of bouncy synth is just too irresistible.
• Desnudate
  It’s a span-glish track!!! Desnúdate means get undress/naked. The chorus is pretty catchy.
• Glam
  Initially perceived as the album’s first single when the track was announced way back, it definitely ain’t single material. Otherwise, it’s a great addition as an album track. The snaps and the beat from the bass drum are captivating. The song wont hit the iconic status of Madonna’s “Vogue“, but it serves as a great intepretation of it.
• Prima Donna
  Only the chorus is memorable. Sounds like she’s trying to be a hustler. =X
• Sex for Breakfast
  This steamy jazzy track marks the start of the ballads for the next couple of tracks. Xtina is sounding sultry here. I do prefer the intro though (Morning Dessert).
• Lift Me Up
  The lone Linda Perry produced track. First heard at the “Hope for Haiti Now” telethon, it’s a standard heartfelt ballad that’s meant for the radio. Should be a single. Would do well on the Adult Contemporary chart.
• All I Need
  The first of four Sia-penned tracks. Sounds like a lullaby for her son. Has a meaning to it. The subtle tone of the track is comfortable.
• I Am
  Second of the four Sia-penned tracks. Remember that I did mention this album contains some of the best work of Christina’s career?? This song is one of them!!! The message being told on nobody’s perfect is indeed true. In reality, you can’t expect invulnerability. Learn to accept the minor flaws in life. I wish for it to be a single, but once released it’ll be overplayed and many people would murder the song. =(
• You Lost Me
  Third of the four Sia-penned tracks. This track just give me the chills (in a good way). Christina gets to unleash her vocal prowess. The power ballad made me teared a little too.
• I Hate Boys
  And it starts to go downhill from here. At only 2:24, it’s skippable.
• My Girls (Feat. Peaches)
  Another song that I would omit out. Peaches provides a rap (!!??). It’s meant to be an anthem, but Le Tigre can definitely do better than this.
• Vanity
  I’ve a love/hate relationship with this song. Only for the narcissistic individual, the unexpected sample of “Here Comes the Bride” is rather interesting.
• Monday Morning
  Now for the deluxe edition bonus tracks. I love the new-wave sound of this song!!! Never fail to get me singing, especially on the chorus!!! Brought to you by Santigold, John Hill and DJ Switch. Reminds me a little of Ashlee Simpson’s Ragdoll, which is also written by Santigold.
• Bobblehead
  The Ke$ha wannabe-track. Guess she taken a leaf from the aged “Hollaback Girl” too.
• Birds of Prey
  A haunting electro confection by Ladytron. I like the moody and melancholic vibe of this track.
• Stronger Than Ever
  Last of the 4 Sia-penned tracks. Some fans compare this song with “Fighter“, which I beg to differ. It has to slow rock feeling to it. Needs a little more punch in the chorus though.
• I Am (Stripped)
  Basically a more acoustic version of the original track, I still prefer that to this. =)
• Little Dreamer
  Another Ladytron-produced track, not as good as the first but a decent album closer.

Final Verdict
As displayed on the album cover, she’s half-human and half-bionic, which probably suggests the transformation is not complete. The album as a whole, sounds confused, especially with the urban tracks. Christina should go on all out and go with the alternative electro-pop route. It’s clear that those songs on the album have positive reception and response to them already.

I would suggest splitting the album into 2. One with the electro tracks and the other with the urban tracks. It would feel more cohesive that way. This album has the potential to be her best album to date, but it’s marred by some of the unnecessary tracks. For a pop album, it succeeds. But as a forward sounding album, it feels a little half-heartedly in terms of effort.

This album scores a 3.5 out of 5.

Recommended Tracks
Christina Aguilera – Elastic Love
Christina Aguilera – Glam
Christina Aguilera – Monday Morning
Christina Aguilera – Brids of Prey

Flesh Tone (Album Cover)

Now for some heavy duty dance tracks!!! It’s been 4 years since her last physical studio LP, so “Flesh Tone” makes the 5th studio album by Kelis and is the singer’s first album since joining the Interscope Records family under the will.i.am music group brand (she worked with him on the track “Weekend” on “Kelis Was Here“). It was released on May 17, 2010 in worldwide and in the UK. The album is due for release on July 6, 2010 in the US and Canada.

The album sees Kelis move into electronica and dance music as compared to the previous urban sound of her last album “Kelis Was Here” (except “Trilogy“, which I think is rather electro sounding).

First Impressions

Actually, Kelis has experimented with dance/electronic oriented music before with Richard X (“Finest Dreams“), Basement Jaxx (“Scars“) and recently with Crookers (“No Security“). So it’s not really a surprise that Kelis would try to do dance. Being on will.i.am’s label allows her to venture and not being restricted to any boundaries. The new sound are crafted by producers such as DJ Ammo, Jean Baptiste, Benny Benassi, Burns, David Guetta, Boys Noize, Free School, and of course, will.i.am.

This album is more to electro-house/cosmic-pop instead of your usual fluffy dance-pop that’s on the radio nowadays. Just a note, the album is littered with segues. It means to make a transition directly from one section or theme to another. So, the whole LP is basically a non-stop affair like Madonna’s Confessions; and Kelis has a hand in writing every track!!!

Track by Track Review

• Intro
  With an intro as long as an average track length, it offers the perfect example of what the rest album is going to sound like. Bass and Synth commands the entire project. She starts singing on the 00:58 mark btw.
• 22th Century/Segue 1
  Kelis welcomes us with her interpretation of what the 22th Century is going to be like. The coo-ing adds a unique hook to the track.
• 4th of July (Fireworks)/Segue 2
  2nd single. I must say it’s an appropriate choice. The synth are quite arresting. I do like the tetris-sounding breakdown.
• Home/Segue 3
  Things are starting to get heavy here. Definitely a potential single to be. A dancefloor stomper.
• Acapella/Segue 4
  First single. Didn’t really like this track initially. But after a few spins I’ve begin to accept it. Has the tribal-electro vibe. A David Guetta-produced track. Kelis wrote this song as a tribute to her son, as heard in the lyrics.
• Scream
  Another David Guetta track and a potential single too, this track is my favourite from the album. Initially titled as Scream & Shout, part of me likes the demo version better.
• Emancipate/Segue 5
  Distinctively a Benny Benassi production, Kelis loops “Emancipate youself” throughout the chorus, which is rather annoying for me.
• Brave/Segue 6
  I prefer this Benassi production than the previous, perhaps ’cause will.i.am has a hand in co-producing it. Loving the melody!!! Another song which Kelis singing her love for her child.
• Song for the Baby
  Unlike other boring dedication tracks to their babies, this uplifting track is catchy with it’s combination of horns and the house beats presented by Free School.

Final Verdict
Spanning only at just 37 minutes from start to finish, it’s a memorable album which fully utilises Kelis’ husky voice remarkably. After being an R&B songstress for more than 10 years, she made a wise move to explore other genres, particularly dance.

Popular in Britain and Europe, Kelis never really made her mark in her home country, the US (well, besides “Milkshake“). Would this album change that fact??? Not really. But it’ll lure dance fanatics to take notice of her. Overall, it’s a good effort as the sound of the album is relevant and current but not generic.

This album scores a 3 out of 5.

Recommended Tracks
Kelis – Home
Kelis – Scream (HQ Demo Version)

Pulse (Album Cover)

In conjunction with dirrtysean’s Toni week, I present you with the review of “Pulse“!!! Alright, I’m getting a little cheesy here (I’m supposed to do it anyway, Haha). Being Toni’s 6th studio album, it’s her first album in five years and serves as her debut for the Atlantic label after signing a new record deal. The album debuted at number 9 on the US Billboard 200 Album chart, pretty decent I must say. It also entered at number 1 on Billboard’s R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart.

The album was originally scheduled for release in 2009, but then pushed back to February 2, 2010 before ultimately being released May 4, 2010. It’s because seven of the album’s ten songs had leaked onto the net and so she had decided to go back into the studio to record new songs. I do wish that some of the leaked tracks made it on the album though, cause they’re good!!!! More on that later….

First Impressions

By appearing and being a contestant on the seventh season of Dancing with the Stars, people took notice of her and this made it a great opportunity for her to release some new material. This album would probably go under the radar for some as expectations are low since “Libra” was barely promoted. Actually, this album matches as a quality comback album. Better than Whitney, definitely.

Track by Track Review

• Yesterday
  The lead single from the album. A version featuring Trey Songz was released, serving as the US single, while the solo version was released internationally. I personally prefer the album/solo version of it. The production is of a classic R&B track on that. Paired with it’s bitter lyrics, this song is meant to be an uber big heartbreak ballad that rivals Beyonce’s “Halo“. It’s one of my chosen top singles for 2009 btw. =)
• Make My Heart
  Toni doesn’t disappoint with doing an uptempo song too. The infectious sound of the horns makes this track danceable and groovy.
• Hands Tied
  Released concurrently with “Make My Heart“, both songs serves as the 2nd singles for the album. Meaning there’s 2!!!! While the former is a club banger, this track is a classic sound coming from Toni.
• Woman
  Those of you who doesn’t know, this song is actually a cover version of the original song by Delta Goodrem from her 2007 album “Delta“. A pretty decent ballad to cover. Suits her voice to a T.
• If I Have To Wait
  This song is rather meaningful lyrically. It’s a risk we’ll take if we really love someone.
• Lookin’ At Me
  The leaked version features Sean Paul on the song, but the finished album version ‘killed’ him off. Sounds a little generic and filler-ish. Not as impactful as “Make My Heart“.
• Wardrobe
  This song could totally fit in a SATC soundtrack. Some critics noted that this song is a little too cheerful and youthful for Toni, I think otherwise. It’s a pop-jam with a catchy beat!!! Loves playing this song when I rummage through my wadrobe. =X
• Hero
  Formerly titled as “Heart Never had A Hero“, as heard in the chorus too. Kara DioGuardi had a hand in co-writing this track. This song is alright to me.
• No Way
  I’m sure Toni would sound great perfoming this song on acoustic. Has a Jazz influence.
• Pulse
  Title track of the album. I exceptionally love the chorus to this song. Has the potential to be a single.
• Why Won’t You Love Me
  A great album closer (if you don’t include the bonus tracks). Singing about an unrequited love, the beautiful but sad chorus is extremely captivating.
• Yesterday (Feat. Trey Songz)
  Included as only a bonus track, this version of the song has a slightly different beat from the original version as mentioned. But I do quite like the verse by Trey Songz though.
• Stay
  My favourite bonus track from the album, this midtempo is quite addictive. At least the songs made it on the album.
• Melt
  Remember earlier in the post I commented that some songs being leaked but didn’t appear on the album, this song is one of them that should be part of it. I wish to highlight it as this song extremely radio-friendly. It deserves a spot on the album.

Final Verdict
Overall, this album is rather consistent as a whole. Toni takes a shot in mixing old school R&B ballads with modern dance-styled tracks, which sounds quite successful as it doesn’t feels forced and awkward. Definitely a good R&B album that’s being released so far this year and ideal for your collection.

This album scores a 3.5 out of 5.

Recommended Tracks
Toni Braxton – Wardrobe
Toni Braxton – Pulse
Toni Braxton – Melt (Unreleased)

Sugababes - Sweet 7 (Album Cover)

Where should I start?? Hmm, there’s so much controversy surrouding this album prior to it’s release. After the release of the album’s first single “Get Sexy” and just two months before its projected November release, it was reported by the media that Amelle had quit the group. Keisha however, denied any drama within the group and insisted that Amelle would remain a member “for the moment”.

On 21 September 2009, it was officially announced that Keisha had left the band, although she stated it was not her decision to leave. Keisha will now pursue a solo career with Island Records, whilst former Eurovision Song Contest entrant Ewen becomes the new Sugababe. Ewen immediately began recording her vocals over Keisha’s, making this album her first studio release instead releasing a solo album.

Given much buzz by signing a US record deal with Jay-Z’s label Roc Nation, the album was recorded mostly in Los Angeles and New York. The group primarily worked with RedOne, Ryan Tedder, Stargate, Fernando Garibay and Ne-Yo. The album was scheduled for release on 9 November 2009, but since the line-up change has occurred, the album has been pushed back numerous times and will now be in stores on the 15 March 2010.

First Impressions

Following the flop of “Catfights and Spotlights“, the girls really want to win their fans back with an upbeat sound of Sweet 7. The backlash from getting ‘rid’ of Keisha does more damage than positive publicity to the “Sugababes“, which has since become a brand. Jade Ewen proves to be a decent addition, they just lack a certain taste level with this release. Comparable with Ke$ha’s “Animal“.

Track by Track Review

• Get Sexy
  First single and album opener. On this re-recorded album version, Jade starts on the first note. Need some time to get use to it though. Pretty much sets the tone of the album. I have a Love/Hate relationship with this song, Sick beat, nonsensical lyrics.
• Wear My Kiss
  Third and current single. The video is cheap enough alright. The epic WaWa remix triumphs the original.
• About A Girl
  The first time I listen to this track, it sounds a little like Sean Kingston’s Fire Burning. A recycled beat.
• Wait For You
  A rather decent track, but not single material. Kinda forgettable. Jade’s vocals gets a little uncontrolled with this track.
• Thank You For The Heartbreak
  The only redeeming song from this album, and it should be, given the reputable writers and producers for this track. Ryan Tedder, Stargate and Claude Kelly. A pity Jade can’t handle this song well. The way she sings is a little painful. The original edit with Keisha’s vocals proves to be top notch.
• Miss Everything (Feat. Sean Kingston)
  This song is being vocoder-ed to death!!! (’nuff said)
• She’s A Mess
  It’s “Get Sexy” Part 2!!! But of course, it’s produced The Smeezingtons, who also did “Get Sexy” and “Miss Everything“. This song is so trashy that it’s my guilty pleasure!!! I must admit, I can’t be denied of this track.
• Give It To Me Now
  Has a slight reggae/carribean with this track. FILLER, but catchy!!!
• Crash & Burn
  Attempts of a ballad wouldn’t work with this incarnation of “Sugababes”. Think “Too Lost in You” and you’ll get me. Heidi sings lead for this track. Indeed, crashed & burned.
• No More You
  A familiar sound, no??? Cause it’s the signature Ne-Yo/Stargate collab beat. A good song, just that the gals’ vocals doesn’t really suit this track well.
• Sweet & Amazing
  Another Stargate-produced track, but it’s a filler.
• Little Miss Perfect
  From the team that brought you “Thank You For The Heartbreak“, sans Ryan Tedder. Now this what I call a proper ballad. By no means it’s perfect, an acceptable album closer.

Final Verdict
The album debuted on number 14 and slipped out of the top 20 thereafter. What does this mean??? The trio who once exploded to No 1 with a Gary Numan mash-up (“Freak Like Me“) are now reduced to vamping Right Said Fred’s ‘I’m Too Sexy’, on ‘Get Sexy’, it’s rather depressing actually. Unlike the infectious “Push The Button” and “Hole In The Head“, every song now is forgettable.

Leave these songs to PCD and such. The ‘babes deserves it’s pride and glory, not this. Reminds me of a certain someone too. Can anyone hunch a guess?? It’s a ‘She’. =P

This album score a 2 out of 5.

Recommended Tracks
Sugababes – Thank You For The Heartbreak (Original Version feat. Keisha)
Sugababes – Thank You For The Heartbreak (Album Version feat. Jade Ewen)
Sugababes – She’s A Mess

Ke$ha - Animal

Happy 2010 to all DIRRTY fans. =) Here’s the first album review for the year 2010. A new year and a new decade. More exciting music coming up this year. I just wanna apologise for the lack of updates due to health issues. The rest of the report card articles would be up asap. For now, a debut album from a new artist.

As I’ve featured her previously on the “Upcoming Freshies” column, she’s definitely one of the artist to watch out for in 2010. Just a short note, I’ll tweak the review format a little. I would more or less do an entire album review and I’ll pinpoint out potential singles from the albums for future posts and those tracks would be featured as downloads in these posts too, prompting you guys to buy the albums. SUPPORT!!!! =)

First Impressions
Touted as the “Lady Gaga” of 2010, I wouldn’t necessarily compare them musically. They are of different leagues. But in terms of success, there are similarities. Riding on the fame of “Right Round” as she was featured on the vocals, it made a platform for her to get notice. The musical style of Ke$ha is more of trash-brat party electro pop (think 3OH!3 and LMFAO). I would deemed her as Katy Perry on crack. Don’t expect meaningful lyrics as it doesn’t make any sense (but a drunken hippie would). This album is not strictly for the faint-hearted and just listen to it with a open mind. It’s also Auto-Tuned throughout the whole album, so if it annoys you, listen elsewhere. I’m reviewing this album through a neutral perspective, playing no favourites (as I do with my other reviews too).

Just a few facts, she has writing credits to all of the songs in the album and has contributions with the likes of Dr Luke, Max Martin and Benny Blanco. Some of her songs are featured on various MTV shows prior to this album release (The Hills, Teen Cribs and My Super Sweet 16). She also co-wrote The Veronicas‘ “This Love” with Toby Gad, sang background vocals for Britney Spears‘ “Lace and Leather” and appeared in the video of Katy Perry’s “I Kissed a Girl“.

Track Review

• Your Love Is My Drug
  One of the song that appears on the album sampler last year. I didn’t really like this song on the first listen back then and here it is, as the album opener. Quite an appropriate introduction to set the mood of the whole album, as it gets better after this. Get ready to party!!!
• TiK ToK
  First single. Number #1 on the Bilboard Hot 100. Pretty much the party anthem for most people out there now. Sad enough to say, I do think it deserves the number #1. Don’t ask me why. Haha. Perhaps it’s nice to be senseless at times and just let loose.
• Take It Off
  Potential single #1. Samples heavily on Robert Miles‘ 1995 trance-lite hit “Children“. Loving the chorus. Uber energetic. “Where they go hardcore, and there’s glitter on the floor”. I’m amused. =)
• Kiss N Tell
  Potential single #2. With Dr Luke, Max Martin and Shellback contributing to this track, nothing would go wrong right?? It’s POP!!!
• Stephen
  Not to be confused with Taylor Swift’s song of the same name, the pace slows down a little on this song. Mid-tempo, just a typical auto-tuned pop song. Nothing exciting.
• Blah Blah Blah (Feat. 3OH!3)
  Potential single #3. Turn the volume up!!! Loving this track too. Beats are insane. It’s very radio friendly.
• Hungover
  A ballad. It doesn’t has the allure like Katy’s “Thinking of You“. Lacks emotion. This song describes more on the after-party effects.
• Party At a Rich Dude’s House
  A ‘jumping-on-the-bed’ kinda track. This track is sorta inspired on that she once vomited in Paris Hilton’s closet while working on her album.
• Backstabber
  I do like the structure and tune of this song. The lyrics are rather catty-like.
• Blind
  Potential single #4. It’s a Fergie-like song. Has the “Big Girls Don’t Cry” vibe. Tempo’s roughly around there too.
• Dinosaur
  A weird song. Kinda intriguing. Definitely has a beat. =)
• Dancing With Tears in My Eyes
  Potential single #5. This song is supposed to be autobiographical but given the vibe of the entire album, it’s a little difficult to treat her seriously. Don’t ya think?? Nevertheless, a good song.
• Boots & Boys
  Ke$ha stated in an interview that she makes it a point to sing the same way men traditionally sang about women in this song. Suggestively. Indeed, there’s joy with both. =)
• Animal
  The title track and the last track of the album (technically). It starts slows, builds up towards to the danceable chorus. The verses are ballad-like. Falls in the filler catergory for me.
• V.I.P (Bonus Track)
  I like the 80’s inspired psychedelic disco sound of this track. That’s worth the mention as compared to the other bonus tracks.

Final Verdict
Ke$ha said in an interview that when it came to her music she wanted to “give people something that brings them joy”. “There are artists who do more serious acoustic stuff, and I really admire them, but what I want to bring to the table is just fucking fun.” As quoted by her.

I dare say that Ke$ha is one of the artist that sorta defines the sound of what POP would sound like this decade (another is definitely Lady Gaga). The previous decade was Britney and Christina, and along the way there’s Justin T.

There are plenty of songs that’s like TiK ToK scattered across the album. It’s meant to be fun, letting oneself loose and forget any worries. This album does that well. As for lyrics with meanings and stuff, you’ll find that this album is soul-less. It would be interesting to see if she could go down this road in the following years to come. For now, take out your dancing shoes and don your clubbing wear ’cause we’re definitely gonna have fun with this album. =)

This album scores a 4 out of 5.

Recommended Tracks
Ke$ha – Take It Off
Ke$ha – Kiss N Tell
Ke$ha – Blah Blah Blah (Feat. 3OH!3)

“The Element of Freedom” is the fourth studio album by Alicia Keys, scheduled to be released on December 15, 2009 in the US. Interestingly, Alicia releases her studio albums on odd years of this decade (2000-2009).

First Impressions
All of Alicia’s albums tell a story and this release is marks no differece from that tradition. Upon listening to this album once through, this effort is Alicia’s most mainstream yet. Every song flows very well, doesn’t seem disconnected. Is it worth the 2 years wait from “As I Am“??? I’ll reply, “Yes, definitely”.

“As I Am” is catered more towards the old school sound (“Teenage Love Affair“, “Lesson Learned“), but on “Element“, it’s very current and contemporary with losing the signature Alicia vibe. Even though it’s contemporary R&B and Soul, it’s still a very personal record to her (and to me as well, I can feel the emotion that exudes on the album). This album literally tore my heartstrings apart. It’s so relatable.

Alicia explains the album’s title in a spoken intro track, which quotes the erotic diarist Anaïs Nin: “And the day came when the risk it took to remain tightly closed in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to bloom. This is the element of freedom.”

Standout Tracks

• Love Is Blind
  Indeed it is. A rather dark album opener track. Not a typical Alicia song, something ‘new’ from her in a way.
• Doesn’t Mean Anything
  First single. I just don’t get it why this song isn’t at least a Top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. It’s pretty much “No One” Part 2, only miles better. A radio friendly track.
• Try Sleeping With a Broken Heart
  Second single. The title suggest that this could end up in a cheesy R&B track. It feels like alternative-pop btw. Very “Prince“. Brillant stuff.
• Wait Till You See Me Smile
  “They say things that they don’t know“. This song cause me to wet my tear ducts a little. Production of this song made it seems like it’s an Enya track. Has a world music vibe to it, an EPIC song.
• That’s How Strong My Love Is
  Quite a refine ballad. This song is beggin’ to get the “MTV Unplugged” treatment.
• Un-Thinkable (I’m Ready)
  Featuring Drake on backing vocals. Another lush R&B/Soul track. Loving the bridge that builds to the excellent chorus.
• Love is My Disease
  “I thought love would be my joy, but now it’s my disease”. Yeah, it results into that all the time. Has a jazzy carribean feel to this track.
• Like The Sea
  A power ballad. SOOO feeling this track. “Love is like the sea …first you’re floatin’ high, then it takes you under”. You can’t help but to agree. It’s irresistable.
• Put It In A Love Song
  Features Beyonce. It’s the sassiest track I’ve heard all year. Even though it feels a little outta place in the middle of the tracklist, it does has common elements that melds this song with the rest of the album (obviously, as it’s written by Alicia herself). A very cool song to sing along, if you manage to memorise everything without making any mistakes that is (I’m only 3/4 there). I’m just wondering if Beyonce’s a singles’ artist. Her singles are the ones that made her famous, not the other tracks in the album (FILLERS!!!). I’ll leave this topic to another post, another time. Oh, and Beysus didn’t manage to upstage Alicia on this track. A sign of respect. =) She usually upstage her collaboators, couldn’t really blame it as her presence is rather commanding.
• This Bed
  Another uptempo track. Rather unexpected. And it’s really good when in bed too. Brillant chorus!!!
• Distance And Time
  The song that causes me to weep badly. Reminds me of my ex. Those memories that I can’t erase. Hands down the best ballad of the album.
• Empire State Of Mind (Part II) Broken Down
  It’s basically adding new verses (removing the rap) to the already EPIC chorus. Could be a theme for a broadway play. Both version has pros, no cons at all. =)
• Through It All
  Bonus Track. An uptempo one. Quite a nice addition to have.

Final Verdict
Alicia certainly could write songs that’s for the soul and brings that out from everyone. The best R&B and Soul singer currently, she’s one of the rare artists nowadays that could be really versatile and have that consistency with every release. A multi-Grammy winner too, she doesn’t disappoint. A great album to end the year and one of the albums to have this year. I predict a number 1 in the Billboard 200 album chart.

This album scored a 5 out of 5.

“Timbaland Presents Shock Value II” (often referred to as just Shock Value II) is the third solo studio album from record producer Timbaland. Initially slated for a 2008 release the project was pushed into 2009 and tentatively confirmed for November 23, 2009 through Blackground Records, however, it has been pushed back once more to December 8 in the US.

First Impressions
One of the anticipated albums of the year, it certainly matches it’s hype and is worth the wait. As compared to “Shock Value I“, this album is easier to listen to while retaining Timbo’s signature sound. After listening once through, you’ll discover that Timbo’s sound has definitely evolved and while “The Way I Are” is a classic (The OneRepublic Remix is EPIC), it seems so yesterday.

*Speaking of which, let me digress abit. I’m really sick of hearing “Whine Up” at the clubs. =X I think “Dance Bailalo” is so much better.*

Standout Tracks

• Carry Out
  Features Justin Timberlake. Album opener (not counting the intro). As usual, like what I always say, it sets the tone for the whole album. Sounding rather fresh even though you know it’s distinctively a Timbo and Justin collab.
• Lose Control
  Features JoJo. With no available date on her next album release, it’s nice to “hear” that there’s some official new material from JoJo (besides her leaked tracks). A catchy song and JoJo’s in her own element.
• Meet In the Middle
  Features Bran’ Nu. I bet you guys (and gals) are wondering who the hell is Bran’ Nu. No, it’s not a new brand name of a cereal. Die-hard Brandy fans should know that Bran’ Nu is her alter ego who raps. On to the song, it’s a lite-banger track. Definitely has an addictive beat.
• Say Something
  Features Drake. This song stands out for the wrong reasons. Being the 2nd single, it’s the worst song from the album. I think Timbo’s executives who choose this song must’ve been drunk during the selection. There are definitely better singles choices from the album. I predict a flop for this one. Oh, and Drake sounds too hard to be Lil’ Wayne, which he wont be anyway.
• We Belong To Music
  Features the EVER annoying Miley Cyrus. For this song, Timbo takes the back seat while Miley rules most of the song on the vocals. Actually, this song ain’t half bad. I find myself humming alone immediately. This is the song that Timbo goes “Pop”. Taking a bite off Miley’s fans I guess. This song serves as a promo single for the album. WAIT, WAIT A MIN. This song sounds familar, doesn’t it?? =) The structure is like Ashlee Simpson’s “Outta My Head” (which is better), which is also produced by Timbo himself. Just a fact. =)
• Morning after Dark
  Features SoShy and Nelly Furtado. First single from the album. Initially features only SoShy, an additional verse by Nelly is added on the actual release of the single. It’s probably because the single wasn’t doing quite well when it was release, enlisting the star power of Nelly is a good move. =) It’s quite a good song for a first single anyways.
• If We Ever Meet Again
  Features Katy Perry. I’m rather surprised by this collab. Quite hyped for this song, it sorta disappoints and falls flat after listening to a couple of times. Sure, the verses is typical Katy. It’s just that the layers of production drowns her. It’s too much syth and auto-tune. If anyone did watch her performace on MTV Unplugged, she has the vocal chops. Her collab with 3OH!3 is so much better, going with the electro route too. One of the promo single of the album.
• Can You Feel It
  Features Esthero & Sebastian. We all know from “The Way I Are“, Sebastian is Timbo’s younger brother. As for Esthero, she’s Canadian but she resides in LA now. She also provides backing vocals on Kanye’s song “Street Lights” from his recent album, “808s & Heartbreak“. This song MUST be a single and should be the 2nd single instead!!! It’s “The Way I Are” of the album. A BANGER!!! Don’t say you haven’t been warned by us. A definitive PARTAY track.
• Ease Off the Liquor
  There isn’t any guests vocalist for this track but SoShy provides a little backing vocals and ad libs for this track. Sounds like a continuation of “Can You Feel It“. Another banger.
• Undertow
  Features The Fray and Esthero. And it all slows down from here. Timbo starts the song and leave the rest to his guests. It’s a rather nice track. Has the potential to be a single. And this song already charted at number 100 on the Billboard 100 due to strong digital downloads.
• Timothy Where You Been
  Features Jet. Anybody remembers the energetic “Are You Gonna Be My Girl“?? Yeap, it’s them. This song immediately reminds me of KT Tunstall’s “Other Side of the World” when it starts. Uber acoustic on the intro, it’s flows towards a Timbo beat after that. JoJo provides backing vocals on this track but is uncredited. A highlight song of the album too.
• Marching On (Timbaland Version)
  Features Timbo’s protegé group, OneRepublic. This version is AWESOME!!! The alternative version can be found on OneRepublic’s sophomore album, which is acoustic and stripped down.
• The One I Love
  Features Keri Hilson and D.O.E. Originally titled as “Maniac“, this song is suppose to feature Chris Brown too, but it was scrapped. All of us should know why, deep inside. I don’t bother anyway, don’t really like Chris’ stuff anyway. It’s a typical Keri jam-sounding track. Kinda liked it. =)

Final Verdict
This album is rather diverse and clear-cut as the mainstream stuff are on the first half of the album and the experimental ones are on the second half. It has been a long way for Timbo to gain recognition in the music industry. Producing for the late Aaliyah and Missy Elliot in the early years, Timbo actually worked with Nelly Furtado on her debut album indirectly (On the Timbo remix of “Get Yr Freak On” and “Turn Off The Lights“). He also had production credits on Justin Timberlake’s debut album too, but goes unnoticed.

Timbo also produces the most of Brandy’s Afrodisiac album and experimented with Utada in 2004. 2006 is the breakout year for Timbo, because of Nelly Furtado’s “Loose” and Justin T’s “Futuresex/Lovesounds“. And since then, he’s a well sought after producer. Almost anything he produces would be a hit.

Whilst this album is really enjoyable, I wouldn’t really put it on heavy rotation as I might get sick of it. Listen to this album on an inconsistent basis would you find that this album is a gem. =)

This album scores a 4 out of 5.

Kris Allen (self titled album) is the major-label debut album (second overall, the first is an independent release) from American Idol season 8 winner Kris Allen. The album will be released on November 17th 2009 in the US.

First Impressions
Being the winner of the 8th season of American Idol, one might think everything is being planned out for him to ensure chart success. Well, it’s not entirely right (or wrong) since he has writing credits on 9 of the 12 tracks on the album, including one solo credit for “Red Guitar“, a song that he wrote prior to participating in American Idol.

If anyone remember his stint on Idol, Kris’ genre is typical adult contemporary, slightly alternative-pop. Jason Mraz with a twist (not in a good way). Production of the album is rather slick. And is easy listening, if you can get over his nasal tone on most of the tracks of the album. Annoying as hell, he doesn’t sound too bad performing live on Idol.

Standout Tracks

• Live Like We’re Dying
  First single. It’s more like standing out for the wrong reasons. Originally a B-side by The Script, Allen’s version gives this song a new life I supposed (has a little country vibe to it). The nasal effect can be felt on the front verses. At least the chorus is it’s saving grace.
• Before We Come Undone
  Greg Kurstin co-wrote and produced this track, so it definitely has to be of a certain standard right??? Well, it does. Could be a single.
• Bring It Back
  Sounds like a generic adult contemporary track, but I quite like this song actually. I can feel the vulnerability through his voice. A good song to showcase his strength.
• Heartless
  A Kanye West cover, this is the song that made me took notice of Kris on Idol. Love the live rendition of it. The studio version aint half bad, with added elements to the song.

Final Verdict
This album doesn’t has any standout tracks as most of them sounds like a replica of each other. The other problem besides the obvious nasal annoyance is that this album lacks character. “Why fix something that ain’t broken??”, you might ask. Kris sits too comfortably in his comfort zone that there isn’t anything distinctive.

This album still warrents a listen, every now and then, due to being rather easy on the ears. Not much pretense going on too, unlike some artists nowadays. Kris is being himself. Contradicting?? Yes, I just wish he would push the envelope a little.

This album scores a 2 and a half out of 5.

*Note*
Sorry about the lack of updates from me lately. Rest assured, I’ll do my best to push out the reviews.
Timbaland, Alicia Keys, Janet and Lambert is on it’s way. =)

The Fame Monster is an EP album by Lady Gaga, and is set to be released on November 18th 2009 (first in Japan). Originally, the album was going to be part of a re-release of Lady Gaga’s debut album The Fame, but following conflicts between Gaga and her label, Interscope Records, the eight new songs will now be released as a separate EP. However, the deluxe version of the album will contain the original The Fame album.

First Impressions
{“I think re-releases are unfair, It’s artists sneaking singles onto an already finished piece of work in an effort to keep the album afloat. Originally [my label] only wanted me to put out three songs and now it’s much more than that.”} Quoted from Lady Gaga herself, I think she has made an LP instead of an EP. I think this album is labeled as an EP because stylistically, it’s related to The Fame, only better!!!

The fact that she’s able to produce such fantastic quality material while touring the world in support of The Fame proves that she’s extremely professional about her job. I would say this album is an upstage of her debut. An essential album for this year and for eternity. =)

Track By Track Review

• Bad Romance
  Lead single from this EP. It’s a mammoth track. This song solidifies her status and proves that she’s no one ‘album’ wonder. Recommended to listen the album version instead of the Radio edit. The album version is uncensored and captures the essence of the album with it’s proper length of the song.
• Alejandro
  One of the promo singles of the album. It reminds of Madonna’s “La Isla Bonita” with a modern twist. Didn’t like this song at first but it grows on me with its vibe and the concept.
• Monster
  The chorus is DEAD SICK!!! So is the entire song too. She borrowed the “Mo, mo, mo, mo” hook from Pokerface but this song is definitely not Pokerface Part 2. Kinda similar though, but it’s “Mo, mo, mo, monster” in this case. One of the peaks of the album.
• Speechless
  Gaga try her hand at a ballad again. Co-written with Ron Fair (the president of Interscope), this song is dedicated to Gaga’s father. Has an 80’s-early 90’s acoustic rock ballad feel to it. Definitely better compared to the ballads she’ve done on The Fame. I like “Again Again” though.
• Dance In The Dark
  Another one of my favorite song currently. As I’ve reviewed, this song is a DISCO STOMPER!!!! It’s also her 2nd promo single from the album.
• Telephone
  Featuring Beyonce. This song leans more towards the urban-dance side. Uber catchy. I’m quite neutral on Beyonce’s verse. With or without her, this song already has it’s substance. Being a crossover track, Beyonce’s presence is much appreciated though. Icing on the cake is suppose.
• So Happy I Could Die
  The beats and the lyrics of this track is great. It’s Gaga territory with another vibe. Thumbs Up.
• Teeth
  The darkest song of this EP. HEARTS IT!!!! The collab with Teddy Riley is rather unexpected in a good sense. Beats are in staccato, marching-like style.

Final Verdict
Most artists would include a couple of lackluster songs for their re-releases, but not Lady Gaga. The songs are LP worthy, and all songs are single material. While The Fame feels rather Pop Glam, The Fame Monster packs a punch with a darker side, experiementing further sonically. She’ll dominate the world with this EP. Non-fans would bow down to her in respect, fans would worship this album. This album has a better consistency as compared to her already fantastic debut. She is currently the epitome of electronic pop currently and is undisputed in this genre in the long run too.

Lady Gaga said that this album is for her fans too. As compared to Mariah’s drabby “Memoirs”, Gaga appreciates her fans more by producing aurally exciting songs. This is an album that deserves a distinction. I wish I could give it 10 out of 5. A MUST BUY ALBUM!!!

(PS. I adore her to bits, but I loathe her over-zealous and exaggerated fans. They couldn’t really behave well.)

This album is scores a definitive full marks. (5 out of 5)

“Rated R” is the fourth studio album by Rihanna is set to be release on November 23th 2009 in the US.

First Impressions
Was rather emotional upon getting my hands on this album for the review. So many stuff has happen to me these couple of days. Okie, shan’t digress. The hype for her first single, “Russian Roulette“, creates tons of negative reception from most of her fans and casual listeners alike. Same goes with promo single, “Wait Your Turn” and 2nd single, “Hard“. This is because when the songs are being released individually, it does not capture one’s attention immediately sonically.

As a whole, you’ll understand what Rihanna is trying to express with this album. Gone are the dance-y syth (Dont’t Stop The Music, Disturbia), enter erratic hip-hop beats and amazing guitar riffs.

Don’t say Rihanna didn’t warn you guys about the sound of this album. A good prelude song to this album would be “Run This Town“. It’s towards that direction. Love it that there are explicit lyrics without being censored. And rest assured, not all songs sound extremely dark. =)

Track By Track Review

• Mad House
  A short instrumental to start this album. It’s a way of saying this album is ‘NSFW‘, which means ‘Not Strictly For the Weak’.
• Wait Your Turn
  Promotional Single and is being used as the teaser for the album’s release. “The Wait is Ova” hook is rather catchy. Many dislike this song, but I think otherwise. Produced by Stargate, the clash beats is recognizable as their signature.
• Hard
  Featuring Young Jeezy (or Jeezy in this case). 2nd single from the album. It’s a grower due to the fact that it’s not a conventional mainstream single that RiRi used to release. Has a genuine swagger to it.
• Stupid In Love
  Ne-Yo + Stargate = Surefire Hit!!! Need me say more??? =) Way better than “Take a Bow“.
• Rockstar 101
  Featuring Slash (on the guitar). Another rather dark track, Slash’s contribution on the track is like icing on the cake. Strain your ears for detaling.
• Russion Roulette
  On first thought, it’s an unusual move for Rihanna to release a ballad as a first single. But she has learned to break rules, I have to give it up to her. Another grower track. As I’ve said on the single review, this song is extremely haunting.
• Fire Bomb
  Describing love using ‘cars’ related words and the freeway. Unique and original. Kinda intrigued by this song.
• Rude Boy
  Another Stargate production. Has that dancehall vibe which traces back to Rihanna’s roots. You guys shouldn’t complain. This song is not dark at all. It’s in fact extremely catachy with its “Rude Boy Boy” hook.
• Photographs
  Featuring Will.i.am. Reminds me of Will.i.am’s own “Heartbreaker” but it’s 100 times much better. The verse by Will feels it’s straight from BEP’s “The E.N.D”. A hidden gem of the album.
• G4L
  Derived from the song itself, G4L stands for Gangsta 4 Life. Seems like it’s quite effortless for Riri to transist into a Hip-Hop artist. =) Doesn’t sound forced.
• Te Amo
  This song leaked quite a long while ago as a demo. Sounds really good in album quality. The ethnic tribal drum beats are hypnotic. Produced by Justin Timberlake’s production team, The Y’s.
• Cold Case Love
  A long epic song (6 mins!!!) written by Justin Timberlake and produced by The Y’s. Love the organic sound of this song. Flows well like a story. The tempo picks up at 3:46. Another highlight of the album. A song custom-made for Riri.
• The Last Song
  Feels like a filler but it ain’t. Riri is pouring her emotions out on this album closer.

Final Verdict
I would rank this album with the likes of Kelly Clarkson’s “My December“. Both are dark, but different genres. Commercially, it wont do as well as GGGB, but critically she’s up onto another level, proving that she’s diverse and not containing herself in the mainstream box. I applaud her for taking this risk.

To the detractors who’s saying this album is a bore, bland and blah, it’s a mistake by shunning this album without trying to understand it. Sure, it’s too Hip-Hop-ish, but it’s the direction that Rihanna wants to go with this album. She could’ve pull off another “Disturbia” easily with the array of producers she work with, but this is where she wanna go with this album. Respect it.

To those who think she’s fake, try experiencing being abused urself and recover from it. Ain’t easy. I can relate to what she’ve been through, in a way (not neccessary being abused, but alike).

This album is a masterpiece and a MUST have for every music fanatic.

This album scores a full 5 out of 5 (cause it’s FLAWLESS).

Echo is the second studio album (affectionately known as a sophomore album), by Leona Lewis. It is scheduled for release on 16th November in the United Kingdom by Syco Music, followed by 17th November in the United States under J Records. Its worldwide release will be through Sony Music.

First Impressions
Everyone’s favourite X-Factor winner (Alexandra Who??) returns with a 2nd album after 2 years. It’s quite sad that she’s being referred to as the “Bleeding Love” singer all the time. Album sales for her debut and her debut single is massive internationally, but her subsequent singles are relatively modest hits, except in her home country, the UK.

Her debut is filled with safe ballads that’s sure to satisfy the masses but left a bland after-taste for the critics. Given her talent and that gifted voice of hers, the record company executives take merticulous care in her 2nd album to ensure she wouldn’t suffer the curse of the sophomore slump.

It’s safe to say that this album exceeds expectations. Roping in well-known producers like Ryan Tedder (the new Timbaland in terms of most used producer this year), Evan Bogart, Max Martin, Shellback and Justin Timberlake with his production team, The Y’s, among others. Oh, and Leona herself has a part in writing a handful of her songs for this album. Hmm, if Spirit’s a light appetizer, Echo is quite a satisfying main course. Wonder why??? Read on. =)

Just a thought, she looks rather possessed on the album cover, wearing a sanitary pad look-alike dress. =X

Track by Track Review

• Happy
  Being the lead single and album opener, it’s a humongous and grand ballad. Typical Ryan Tedder beats, but sounds fresh and current. It’s Leona’s comfort zone but you can feel the emotion in the song. The Nevins remix sucked badly btw. =(
• I Got You
  A song that which Max Martin is being involved in it’s writing process. Most would write off this song as Bleeding Love Part 2, which is aint true. This is a different song altogether, only the vibe and some beats of this song is similar. I have a hunch that this will be the 2nd single. Definitely radio material.
• Can’t Breathe
  Another power ballad with a hint of electro-clash in the background. Worth being played upteen times.
• Brave
  Has a middle eastern feel to it’s melody. One of the songs that leaked before the entire album’s out. A safe Leona material.
• Outta My Head
  The breakthrough track and the highlight of this album. Leona should consider having a union with ‘Electro‘, as this marriage would be successful, even if it’s only for an album if she’s planning this direction next. As I’ve featured the live performance of this song here, the fact that she can perform this song live EFFORTLESSLY and confidently means she already a bona-fide superstar. Plus this song BEGS(!!!) to be remixed and release as a single. A slight complain is that she sounds better live with this song than the album edit, which sounds disturbingly sharp and robotic. Oh, and this song is written by the hitmakers of Britney’s 3, Max Martin and Shellback. A song waiting to be ignite on the chart and the dancefloor alike. It’s just strange that it’s the only danceable uptempo song which is awkwardly slapped in the middle of the album. Outstanding is an understatement, it’s F*KING AWESOME!!!
• My Hands
  If you don’t see the credits to this song, everyone would assume that it’s a Tedder production, but it ain’t. His sound can be emulated it seems. =) An above average song.
• Love Letter
  A rather summer-y song. One of my fave tracks of this album due to it’s breezy vibe. Highly infectious.
• Broken
  Quite a heartbreaking ballad by Leona which shows off her vocals well.
• Naked
  Another pop-py uptempo track. Kinda forgettable and seems like a filler, but I like it though. =)
• Stop Crying Your Heart Out
  The lone disappoinment song of the album. It’s a cover of the Oasis track, which I apparently like. So, expectations are high. The producers are trying to recreate the vibe on ‘Run‘ with this track. It doesn’t really work as more angst is needed for this song to work it’s magic. Her rendition doesn’t have any effect on me at all due to the lazy singing. The style of this song is not meant to be gentle, it’s meant to feel the pain instead. Guess it’s the rearrangement fault. Leona can do better. The Oasis original is hard to top but it’s a good try though.
• Don’t Let Me Down
  Written and produced by Justin Timberlake and his production team, The Y’s. The break beats in the background definitely has that Justin Timberlake signature (“What’s Goes Around, Comes Around” to be exact). Backed by JT, but it feels like a filler material. There are some parts of this song that is captivating.
• Alive
  Yet again another heartfelt pop ballad. Nope, no complains about it. =)
• Lost Then Found
  Features OneRepublic. A worthy single candidate. An interesting and appropriate collaboration too. Maybe Leona should front a band for just a project. =)
• Stone Hearts & Hand Grenades
  Could make do without this hidden track as the album closer. Rather fitting as an “epilogue” or an encore though, summing up the entire album.

Final Verdict
A couple of songs is missing as UK, US and Japan has slightly different tracklisting, ommiting some songs for each process in the countries (I’m still lacking “Fly Here Now” and “I Don’t Care“). This forces the fans to buy imports. Sly ploy to earn the fans’ money. I have a hunch she’ll re-release with a deluxe edition album.

When Leona first hit the music scene with her debut, I felt that her tunes are memorable but not her personality. I’ll be like “Har, I have a difficulty picturing her.” But this album exudes enough personality to let the world knows who she is and not just a one-hit wonder. “Bleeding Love” would definitely not be her only song that everyone remembers her by.

Overall, the album shows consistency, probably due to the watcful eye and ears of record executives. Even though it’s a ballad heavy album, it’s what Leona does best. All the songs evokes emotions and she sound genuine. She has the flair and capability of not making ballads sound too drabby and repetitive.

My only complain is that the album should focus too much on ballads. Give songs like “Outta My Head” a chance. I know some might not like that side of Leona, but since she has the ability to pull it off, let her venture into that zone instead of being safe all the time. This is the only factor that hinders me from giving the album full marks.

Move over Mariah, Leona is the Queen of ballads for the new millennium and she’s here to stay in the music industry for good.

This album scores a 4 out of 5.

Wordshaker is the second studio album by British girl group, The Saturdays, which was released on 12 October 2009. The album peaked at #9 in the UK Albums Chart, which is the highest debut from the girls since they debuted at #11 with their first album.

First Impressions
Being a really HUGE Sats fan (hey, I provided all of the B-Sides from the first album remember!!!), I’m really looking forward to lay my hands on this album. But after listening once through, it’s not really ear-grabbing. They really lost their touch on the ballads, not memorable as compared to “Issues” and “Chasing Lights“. As for the uptempos, the presence of killer hooks can be felt throughout. =)

Standout Tracks

• Forever is Over
  Lead single. Didn’t really took much notice of this song in the first place cause I’m rather underwhelmed by it. But after hearing the fantastic Buzz Jukies remix, it’s easier to digest this song. Actually it aint that bad, going for a rockier electro sound.
  *Fun Fact* – This song was in fact written for Kelly Clarkson to record for her album. However, during a visit to the record label’s HQ The Saturdays heard the song and requested the song’s writer James Bourne to let them record it instead.
• Here Standing
  The only bearable ballad from the album. Deserves to be the 3rd or 4th single, since the first 2 singles are uptempos. As for comments on this song, it starts off beautifully, then the chorus sounds rough. I dunno whether the 5 gals wanna overtake each other on who’s singing the loudest. Sheesh.
• Ego
  The best song of this album. It has all the elements of “Work“, but much more heavy hitting. 2nd single. This song has Number One written all over it.
• No One
  Another ballad. Not to be confused with the Alicia Keys track. It’s nowhere as good as that. Average at best. It does sounds like an All Saints song though.
• One Shot
  Another heavy hitting electro number. Excellent stuff. You only have one shot. I like the message put across on the song. =)
• Wordshaker
  The chorus has very appealing lyrics. I’m sure it’s infectious enough for peeps to be singing along. Another single contender.
• Open Up
  The beats, paired with the lyrics, makes this song sounds a little amateurish and kiddish. Bad execution!!! Sure, it sounds cheerful, but it’s abit too senseless.
• Lose Control
  The only redeeming quality of this song is this line from it’s lyrics. “I should be the face of every fashion magazine“. As for the comments, See: Open Up.

Final Verdict
It seems like the girls has traded the quality of their ballads to support their catchy uptempos in this album. No doubt that the uptempo electro songs has an immediate catchy effect on the ears. It’s just so disappointing that the ballads are being sacrificed in the process. I think I prefer their first album more, even the B-sides from the first album has single potential.

I think the culprit to this inconsistency is most likely due to the short time frame taken to record this album, March to July 2009. They only purchase/shopped the songs from producers and just record their vocals in them. Hence, the lack of emotion as compared to their debut album. Their debut album has much more consistency and diversed. It’s just an alright sophomore album to me. In a risk to be forgettable. This era would most likely be reminded by it’s singles instead.

This album scores a 3 out of 5.

She Wolf is the third English studio album by Colombian Latin-pop singer-songwriter Shakira, first released on October 9th in Europe, October 12th in the UK and November 23rd in the US.

The album sees Shakira shift from Latin pop and pop-rock to electro pop while also exploring dancehall. She co-wrote and executively produced all of the album except for one song. Pharrell Williams is her main co-writer and the majority of the album was produced by Pharrell’s production team, The Neptunes or duo John Hill and Sam Endicott.

First Impressions
After a 4 year hiatus from the music world, the Latin bombshell is back!!! Apparently, becoming a She Wolf too. I must say this album is not your typical electro-pop album, not even close to Lady Gaga territory. It’s a standalone brilliant pop album. Not really related but has the connections. Contradicting right??? =)

The lyrics alone are eccentric enough to make a listener go “HUH”??? But as we all know, her first breakthrough english single back in 2002, Whenever, Wherever, has lyrics like “Lucky that my breasts are small and humble/So you don’t confuse them with mountains”. That’s Shakira for you. Witty but weird lyrics. The entire album is splashed with interesting lyrics. Has a cool factor to them.

This album takes time to appreciate on. Once you get what this album is all about, you’ll feel that Shakira has release herself out of her comfort zone and pushing boundaries. Production credits are mostly by Pharrell and The Neptunes, but there isn’t any hint of recycled material by them. A very fresh album indeed. Altough the album cover looks like there’s been an arsenic accident, don’t judge a music album by it’s cover. =P

Standout Tracks

-She Wolf/Loba
Lead single. First of the 3 two version (English/Spanish) tracks that compliment each other. She sounds more subdued on She Wolf but the lyrics saved it. On the other hand, she sounds really comfortable and more in control on Loba. A good song to set the tone for the album.

-Did It Again/Lo Hecho Está Hecho
2nd single for the rest of the world except US. Brilliant lyrics, especially on the first verse. Very uptempo and danceable too. 2nd song to have a spanish counterpart. I like both versions equally. =)

-Long Time
A song that retains a little of the spanish flavour, mixed a little dancehall too. Excellent midtempo with great beats. Pharrell and The Neptunes pull off this song well.

-Why Wait/Años Luz
Beats are very Timbaland-ish, though it’s by The Neptunes again. This song has a heavy middle eastern influence. Brilliant lyrics too. “Why wait for later/I’m not a wait-er”. The spanish counterpart feels like an ethnic heavy club banger.

-Men in this Town
Hands down the HIGHLIGHT of this album. Shakira dabbles with 80’s nu-disco again (Remember “Timor“??). Clever lyrics yet again. “Matt Damon’s not meant for me”. Woah, an unexpected reference.

Shakira also displays her signature vocal gymnatics here that’ll put post 90’s Mariah to shame (90’s Mariah is unbeatable). The freestyle vocals are weird but yet it fits.

Given a tweak in the lyrics, this song would be very popular among the pink community. “Is there a prince, in this fable, for a small town girl like me/the good ones are gone or not able” and “Where are all the men in this town/What’s a girl suppose to do”. Insanely sick lyrics and beats, in a good way. DESERVES to be a single, or it’ll be really underrated. This song justifies this album. One of my fave songs this year. =)

-Gypsy
This song is rather folkish and unique. A worthy mention is that it’s co-written and produced by Amanda Ghost, who is a singer-songwriter.

-Spy
Featuring Wyclef Jean. They both collaborate yet again. This song is no “Hips Don’t Lie“, yet it’s another highlight of the album, having a disco vibe too. It’s interesting that Shakira voice is trying to resemble like a trumbone with the hook. It feels very much like an MJ song too.

-Give It Up To Me
The 2nd US single from the album. If it’s from Timbaland, urban beats is  definitive. Features both Timbaland and Lil Wayne. Doesn’t mash with the album quite well though. The only factor that makes it cohesive with the album is Shakira’s voice. But overall, it’s a decent song with a good hook and chorus. Bonus track for the album.

Final Verdict
Given that the length of the album is just only a little after 30 minutes, it’s power-packed with superb songs that’s supported with great production and lyrics. Sure, she’s a humble diva and might not produce songs that’s typical, but she has the guts to be different and yet staying melody-friendly. Shakira has the whole package, the brains and beauty and compassionate.

This is a critics’ fave album. 4 years is a long wait, but it’s worth it if the quality is like this. I seldom give an almost full album review, for this album, I reviewed most tracks except for 2. Not that they’re bad, it’s just average. =) This album should be in contender for album of the year. And it’s a recommended buy. It should be in everyone’s pop collection.

This album scores a 4.5 out of 5.

*The Saturdays and Alexandra Bruke’s album reviews are coming up next.*

Firstly, sorry about the long overdue-d review. NS is killing me (Those who are in SG should know about it). Thanks all of you guys for the support and patience. I promise to churn out reviews asap. Love ya’ll!!!

“Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel” is the 12th studio album by Mariah Carey. Originally scheduled for release on August 25, 2009, the project was released on September 29th with Island Records in the US.

The album debuted at #3 in the US, behind Barbra Streisand’s Love Is the Answer and Paramore’s Brand New Eyes with first week sales of 168,000, a noticeable drop from her previous album’s opening week of 463,000. Very unexpected. Since I think this album is slightly better than E=MC2 (Energy Equals Mass Times the Velocity of Light Squared).

First Impressions
This album is rather highly anticipated by me, since it was being pushed back twice for certain reasons. I expected it to be good, but it disappoints. More misses than hits. Her last album was quite commercial for my taste.

“Touch My Body” is very bad, “Bye Bye” underperformed, “Lovin’ You Long Time” is a wrong single choice and “I Stay In Love” was released too late and sounding like “We Belong Together” Pt. 2, not fresh at all.

Well, this album doesn’t have many single choices, hence making it a little non-commercial in a sense. In short, the album is filled with fillers. After all, she only took less than a year to record it. Sounds a little too rushed. Nearly all of the album’s tracks was written and produced by Mariah, Tricky Stewart and The-Dream (Rihanna’s hit makers).

Standout Tracks

• Betcha Gon’ Know (The Prologue)
  Mariah is singing about a day of her life as Mimi. Hmm, good tune. That’s about it. Better than some fillers on her album. Promising song as the album opener.
• Obsessed
  First single. Initially I hated this track, but it grows on me due to the fact that this song fits right in the vibe of this album. Love the original album mix. HATES all the remixes. Sorry Seamus Haji, hearts all of your remixes but not this.
• H.A.T.E.U.
  The title stands for Having a Typical Emotional Upset. 3rd single of the album. A very endearing slow jam. Nothing breakthough though. Standard Mariah stuff since the Emancipation era.
• Candy Bling
  Samples “Back in the Day” by Ahmad. One of my 2 fave song from the album. She fully utilises her voice to the max in this track. And this song is very good for making out. =P Should be release as a single. Didn’t really like the remix treatment that features T-Pain.
• Ribbon
  Has the potential, BUT the vocoder-ed vocals throughout ANNOYS the hell out of me. SHEESH!!! Why spoil a song when it could be more than decent.
• Inseparable
  A rather radio-friendly commercial track. You’ll hear elements of “Time After Time” by Cyndi Lauper in this song (on the song structure). It’s not really direct sampling.
• Standing O
  The ‘another’ fave track on the album. This track is very Rihanna. Could be “Take a Bow” Part 2. Filled with angst. The ‘O’ hook is addictive too. Makes you wanna sing along.
• Angels Cry
  A decent ballad, but rather forgettable. The chorus is good.
• Languishing (The Interlude)
  Interlude to 2nd single, “I Want to Know What Love is“. Even though this is not a full track, this song left me wishing it could be a full track. It deserves the full treatment. Feels very vulnerable, Mariah at her best. Otherwise, a good intro before IWTKWLI.
• I Want to Know What Love Is
  2nd single. It’s a cover of a song that is originally by Foreigner. I’ve mixed feelings about this song. A very safe choice for a single. And she sounds flat when she drags ‘Is’ during mid song. Some says Mariah + Gospel Choir + “I Want to Know What Love Is” = Surefire hit. I’m neutral on this.

Final Verdict
Actually, this album sounds rather cohesive together, deemed as Mariah’s most sonically consistent album to date by Slant Magazine. That’s quite true, including the fillers too. On the other hand, the album feels that it lacks soul and passion. The fillers are thrown in for the sake of filling up the album.

Mariah definitely could not recreate the success she had on her comeback like Emancipation, neither during her early years too, the 90s. I like Music Box, Daydream and Butterfly. Sigh, those were the days. Nowadays, she producing lackluster stuff. Hoping the remix album would give her a wider range and those unreleased tracks from this sessions could see the ray of light (No pun intended). Till then….

This album scores a 3 out of 5.