BallerStatus review
We've seen some major changes in Mariah Carey's image over the years. Going from a shy and quiet R&B singer with songs like "Hero" and "Dream Lover", to a sexier Mariah thereafter. With a brand new diva attitude, she has shown that even though going through setbacks - like her acting debut in the disappointing film and soundtrack "Glitter", to her much publicized breakdown soon after, then following with a subpar album with Charmbracelet - she has the willpower and determination to keep on striving for success.
After a brief haitus since her last album, it's official Ms. Carey is back - a new and improved Mariah Carey. There is no denying her place amongst the upper echelon R&B artists, and with her tenth album, The Emancipation of Mimi, she delivers an insightful opus in which she claims her freedom from men on a complete album that delivers a solid punch of soul, hits, romance and sex appeal. Determined to top the charts once again, she releases an album which helps her regain the once prominent position she held throughout the 90's as one of the premier female vocalists.
The explosive lead single "It's Like That" is a radio friendly dance hit, which serves as a public reintroduction to Mariah, as she reinvents her self once again. "It's a special occasion, Mimi's emancipation, a cause for celebration, I ain't gonna let nobody's drama bother me," exclaims Mariah.
The ever so reflective "We Belong Together" is a passionately sung and spirited entry about the diva's feelings about someone once dear to her, as she sings "When you left I lost a part of me, it's still so hard to believe, come back baby please, cause we belong together." Following is the track "Shake You Off", which is a therapuetical anthem to getting over a false love.
The Snoop Dogg assisted and Neptunes produced "Say Something" is a bouncy track in similar fashion to Jodeci's classic hit "Come And Talk to Me", as it incites one to step up and approach the person you like. "Get Your Number" is a party starter that entices head nodding, and "One and Only", featuring Twista, and "Circles" add to the relationship themes of the album, with both pertaining to the difficulties of an unfaithful relationship. "Your Girl" adds even more momentum to the album, as she demonstrates in convincing fashion her claim for being your second half.
She closes the LP with "Fly Like a Bird", a defining moment on the opus as she asks for God's guidance throughout the harsh times that life offers. The great thing about this album is the song writing, and Mariah's voice. Though this is no big secret, the combination of the both make for one of Mariah's best albums to date. The album's authenticity helps Mariah take the R&B game to new heights, as she manages to put together an LP that everybody will find enjoyable from your biggest 50 Cent fan right down to a Syleena Johnson fan. Mariah successfully bridges the gap between old school, new school, and everything in between. The Emancipation of Mimi is definitely a new beginning for the R&B diva. (BallerStatus)
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