That Chick.
"..."E=MC2" is a little better -- the songwriting is more consistent, the feel a bit more natural -- but it too lacks a ruling temperament or artistic vision. Without that, it's a savvy sampler of mainstream commercial craft, plush aural lounges designed and furnished by such producers and writers as Jermaine Dupri, Timbaland associate Nate "Danja" Hills and hip-hop's Swizz Beatz.That often leaves Carey sounding like an ersatz Beyoncé, and she never approaches the cathartic soulfulness of Mary J. Blige or the auteur credentials of Alicia Keys...What's most striking about the album is the further toning down of Carey's famously powerful voice. She was always criticized as a technically gifted singer with no interpretive intelligence or instincts, but now that the instrument itself sounds physically diminished, she seems to be groping toward some kind of expressive ground. Those signature high notes pierce the stratosphere a couple of times, but she's even more reticent to wail -- there's no counterpart to "Mimi's" showy "Mine Again" or "Joyride."...Instead, Carey tests registers and dynamics. In "I'll Be Lovin' You Long Time," her singing is so direct, understated and unglamorous it's almost shocking -- like seeing a diva without makeup. The piano ballad "I Stay in Love" is similarly unadorned, and her voice is almost leathery in the lower notes. It's not flattering, but it rings true emotionally..."
Why do I feel like this is the most accurate and spot on review of this album that I'll read all week?
Needless to say, I'll probably more than likely love this album...
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