Mistreated, Misplaced, Misunderstood

(Recommendations are in red.)

"11 years. Wow. 15 if you count from the day I signed my record contract. I was a 16 year-old, punk-a** little know-it-all, me-against-the-world, I-will-beat-you-down brat. Really I just needed a hug - and some gas money," is how P!nk introduces her first collection of greatest hits. Compiled onto one disc, LaFace / Jive Records really did a great job at selecting the singer's massive hits, and the inclusion of the new songs is definitely a wise move on their part.

I had liked P!nk ever since she really came to everyone's attention for good in 2002 with her smash single "Get The Party Started" from her 2001 sophomore album M!ssundaztood. I liked her enough that I realized that she was here to stay, and I asked for (and received) that album for Christmas of that year. After listening to that and realizing I liked every song, it was obvious that P!nk would do no wrong, and this F****n' Perfect (haha, corny pun, I know) collection really proves that.

1. Get The Party Started - Taken from her M!ssundaztood album (released in 2001), this is P!nk's signature song. No matter how annoying and repetitive it may be at times, there's no denying the song's catchy chorus and take-no-prisoners verses.

2. There You Go - The only song on this collection to be taken off her debut album, Can't Take Me Home (released in 2000). Can't Take Me Home was more of an R&B-driven album, and the only reason I can think of for this being the only song from that album to be featured here is because it is her most popular song from that album. It also has that angry tone from P!nk that we can still hear today. It's a shame that this was the only CTMH song on this greatest hits collection, seeing as there are far more better track from that album that were chosen as singles (where's Most Girls or even You Make Me Sick?).

3. Don't Let Me Get Me - Another overwhelmingly successful single from her M!ssundaztood album, Don't Let Me Get me is one of those songs you have to be in the mood to listen to. I know I say it a lot, but it's true. It's a great song, but after a while it can get under your skin. You've been warned.

4. Just Like A Pill - This is what I'm talking about! My favorite single taken off of her M!ssundaztood album, it's got killer verses and a catchy chorus. I could easily put this song on repeat and not get tired.

5. Family Portrait - A heartbreaking account of the story of divorce, told through one child's eyes. Released as the final single from her M!ssundaztood album, it's a powerful and melodic R&B tune.

6. Trouble - The only song taken from 2003's Try This, my favorite P!nk album. Although this rebellious song, the lead single for Try This, won P!nk a 2004 Grammy for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance, the album underperformed and is P!nk's lowest selling album to date.

7. Stupid Girls - In 2006, almost three years after Try This commercially flopped, P!nk returned to the music scene with her song Stupid Girls, which was accompanied with a controversial, VMA-winning music video. It's a comical and satirical song that pokes fun at (and criticizes) various famous "Stupid Girls" (notably Jessica Simpson, Lindsay Lohan, Paris Hilton, and Mary-Kate Olsen). Though it isn't one of my favorite songs from her I'm Not Dead album, it's a good listen every now and then.

8. Who Knew - Another song from I'm Not Dead, this song was actually released twice in the U.S., once in 2006 as the album's second single, and then again in 2007, as the album's fourth single. It's a touching song about losing someone close to you and dealing with that in everyday life. It's a great song, but (like most singles from I'm Not Dead), it was a tad overplayed.

9. U + Ur Hand - Often credited with providing a surge in sales for her I'm Not Dead album, this comical song is P!nk's (not-so) subtle way of telling a guy at the bar that she will not be going home with him. It's probably the only single from I'm Not Dead that I can still listen to to this day.

10. Dear Mr. President (featuring Indigo Girls) - Taken off her comeback album, I'm Not Dead (2006), I think this is the one P!nk song that truly makes me cringe. It's P!nk's letter to (ex)-President George W. Bush. Don't get me wrong, it's beautifully written, and I agree with the points she makes here, but this song really is not P!nk at all. The message and style is, but there's just something about it that isn't right. It wasn't even released as a single in the U.S., so its appearance on the U.S. edition of this collection puzzles me. And the addition of Indigo Girls definitely does not sit well with me. Sorry, P!nk!

11. So What - That's more like it! After waiting two and a half years, P!nk returned to the scene with her Funhouse album in October of 2008, with this song as its lead single. It's the angry, feisty, and fun P!nk that we all know and love, and I wouldn't trade it for the world.

12. Sober - A more mellowed out P!nk sings to us about being independent, and having nobody to lean on or turn to. It's a pretty personal, dark slow song, but it works for her, and it's a great listen.

13. Please Don't Leave Me - Another take-it-or-leave-it song from Funhouse, this song shows P!nk begging and pleading for her lover not to leave her.

14. Funhouse - I love this one! It's a funky, original song about the past and how things have changed. It never fails to disappoint, and is really worth a listen.

15. I Don't Believe You - Another great song from Funhouse. P!nk shows her vulnerable side, and you can really hear the emotions in her voice when she sings here. It's a fantastic, heart-wrenching song that will give you chills every listen.

16. Glitter In The Air - I'm not a huge fan of this one. It really gained attention when she performed this at the Grammys, but this song really does nothing for me.

17. Raise Your Glass - A new song for this collection, this massive hit in the U.S. is about letting free and just being yourself. It's got a great message, and it's really catchy.

18. F****n' Perfect - The second newly recorded song for this collection is great. It's an emotional song which finds P!nk telling the listener "Don't you ever, ever feel / Like you're nothin' / You're F****n' Perfect / To me". It's awesome to listen to when you're feeling down about yourself.

Hang Your Stockings With Christmas Cheer, 'Cause Santa Claus Comes Tonight

(Singles are italicized, recommendations are in red.)

What can be said about Mariah Carey that hasn't been said before? With a 20-year music career under her belt, multiple marriages, a mental breakdown, and 12 albums later, this Diva's been through quite a lot.

Following the success of her first Christmas album - titled Merry Christmas - there's no need to wonder why Mimi would title her second Christmas album Merry Christmas II You (pun clearly intended, as she makes clear in just about every interview she's done to promote the album). It's also no surprise that she would mimic almost the exact same pose that she held for her first Christmas album's cover back in 1994 - 16 years ago. Fans and critics alike dub Mariah "Ms. Christmas", as they should. Anyone can tell that she really put her heart and soul into this album.

1. Santa Claus Is Coming To Town (Intro) - A 23-second instrumental of the chorus for the song "Santa Claus Is Coming To Town". It's featured as the first 23 seconds of her "Oh Santa!" music video, because this track seamlessly segues into . . .

2. Oh Santa! - The very first single released from the album. It's a really catchy song that's got a chorus that will have you hooked. Mariah asks Santa to bring her lover back to her for Christmas.

3. O Little Town Of Bethlehem / Little Drummer Boy Medley - I'm really indifferent towards this one. It's a very weird combination of songs, but I sorta like it.

4. Christmas Time Is In The Air Again - The second original song off the album ("Oh Santa!" being the first). This song is just about feeling good about the Christmas season. The concept is good, however, in this song, it seems as if Mariah has come down with what I like to call "The Charmbracelet Symptoms" - that is, 'whispering' the lyrics through more than half the song, belting out a few notes towards the end, and ending the song. It's not a great concept, but I'm in love with the simple yet charming lyrics, so I'd recommend it I think.

5. The First Noel / Born Is The King Interlude - Okay, I'm really not liking this whole concept of Christmas mashups she's done on this album. This is definitely a step up from the previous mashup on here, and I do like this one I suppose.

6. When Christmas Comes - I'm in love with this. It's another original song, and this time she really really sings, not whispers.

7. Here Comes Santa Claus (Right Down Santa Claus Lane) / Housetop Celebration - Oddly enough, I really love this song too. It's a ghetto-ified version of "Here Comes Santa Claus", but it's funky and I can't stop listening to it. Just get rid of Jermaine Dupri's annoying hollering at random places throughout, and this song would be 100% perfect.

8. Charlie Brown Christmas - Mariah's cover of the classic "Christmas Time Is Here", from the Peanuts holiday special. It's really nice.

9. O Come All Ye Faithful / Hallelujah Chorus [featuring Patricia Carey] - I tried really really hard to like this one, but to be fair, I don't think I can say that I gave it much of a chance. This one features Mariah's mother, who is an opera singer. I'm just not a huge fan of opera, so naturally I was relatively pessimistic upon listening.

10. O Holy Night (Live) - The live version of her rendition of the classic from her first Christmas album. Recorded 10 years ago in 2000, I really do like this one. A music video for this live version was made when it was first recorded in 2000, and it's beautiful, so you should check that out if you have the chance.

11. One Child - The final original song on the album. It's not great, but it's not horrible.

12. All I Want For Christmas Is You (Extra Festive) - Mariah's re-recorded version of her 1994 classic. Revamped with an all-new instrumental intro, a remixed track, and an extended ending, this one's a keeper. Though it's evident that her vocals aren't as strong as they were 16 years ago, it's still a great listen, and I love the ending, in which she beautifully vocalizes and chants "All I want / All I really want is / Want is / Want is / Want is / You". Though you can sorta hear this on the original as it fades out, it's a great addition to this re-recorded, 'Extra Festive' remix.

13. Auld Lang Syne (The New Year's Anthem) - The first 50 seconds or so start off like a Gospel song, but then it turns into a funky techno-ish celebration song that makes you want to just get up and dance. Or fist pump.

Whoa, an Update?!

Hey everybody,

I know it's been almost 6 months since I posted a review on here, which is disappointing. So many great albums have been released this past summer and fall, and my last review was in June! But since we are only 4 days away from Christmas, one of the biggest holidays of the year, I think it would be appropriate to review a few Christmas albums! Stay tuned for some of that, my first album review should be coming tonight - a review of Mariah Carey's newest holiday album, Merry Christmas II You.

Got our friends, got the night, We'll Be Alright.

(Singles are italicized, recommendations are in red.)

When I first heard the song "Billionaire" about 3 months ago, I thought Bruno Mars (the guy who sings the chorus of the song) was Travie. I never paid much attention to the song, and I realized Travie was the rapper when heard it on the radio one day and found it to be pretty catchy. Then in May I went to a concert with 3OH!3, Cobra Starship, I Fight Dragons, and Travie McCoy. There was still a month to go before Lazarus' release, so I was excited when he performed 3 or 4 songs from the album. It was at that moment I decided I would get the album as soon as it came out, and that's exactly what I did.

1. Dr. Feelgood (featuring Cee-Lo Green) - Awesome album opener! It's upbeat, and guaranteed to become an instant favorite.

2. Superbad [11:34] - This song is unique in that it's got somewhat of a rock feel to it, and I like it a lot!

3. Billionaire (featuring Bruno Mars) - Who hasn't heard this one? It's still worth the listen once in a while, but after a few listens, it's safe to skip this one.

4. Need You - I'm not sure if I like this one too much. It's just kinda boring and repetitive, and the chorus is annoying.

5. Critical (featuring Tim William) - It's a slight improvement over track 4, but not much, as it's also got an annoying chorus that won't leave your head.

6. AKidAgain - For a while, this was one of my favorites from the album, but after a while you get somewhat sick of it.

7. We'll Be Alright - This is, without a doubt, the party anthem on the album. It ties with "Superbad (11:34)" as my favorite on the album.

8. The Manual (featuring T-Pain and Young Cash) - I usually skip this one mainly because I can't stand T-Pain. It's a shame, it would have been a killer song if T-Pain was replaced by someone who didn't need a machine to sing for them.

9. After Midnight - This feels freakishly similar to "We'll Be Alright", but that doesn't bother me, because it's still a great song.

10. Don't Pretend (featuring Colin Munroe) - I was a little put off by the strange chipmunk - like vocals at the beginning and throughout the song, but it grew on me. It's a dark, sad song with a rockish feel to it. Very good.

11. Ms. Tattoo Girl (featuring T-Pain) (iTunes Exclusive Bonus Track) - A slight improvement over the other song that had T-Pain in it, but it's still T-Pain.

12. She Did It (iTunes Exclusive Bonus Track) - Nothing special, just somewhat boring.

You don't even need a plate, just your face, ha.

(Current and announced singles are italicized. Recommendations are in red.)

For the longest time I had sworn Christina Aguilera (and her music) off. Since '99, I had been strictly team Britney, considering Xtina her rival. I had enjoyed "Come On Over" in 2000, as well as a few of the singles off of her sophomore album (titled Stripped), but none of those likings sparked enough interest in me to buy either album. I just hated her voice. In fact, I believe I referred to it as Kermit and Miss Piggy's love child on speed. Then 2006 rolled around and I decided it was time to give her third album Back to Basics a chance. And I was glad I did!

Fast forward to today, 2010. It's the future, and many artists are recognizing that. While many people are ridiculing Aguilera for ripping off Lady Gaga, I have to say, I can't see that too much. Sure, I can see where one would draw comparisons to two or three futuristic getups Xtina dons in the album's booklet, but I'd say the main inspiration (read: inspiration, NOT ripoff) comes from Madonna, specifically from her Erotica album era. I mean, seriously! In the booklet for the Deluxe Edition of the album (which is subject to review here), the page with the lyrics to "Monday Morning" is more or less almost an exact replica of Erotica's main album cover. But all comparisons aside, let's just review the album, shall we?

1. Bionic - Though it's really a song, I consider this an intro. It's a strong way to open up the album. Bravo!

2. Not Myself Tonight - I'm shocked that this, the lead single off the album, didn't perform better than it did. It's really fun and catchy!

3. Woohoo (featuring Nicki Minaj) - There really is no delicate way to put this. This song finds Aguilera singing about her nether regions. There. It's out in the open (no pun intended). In all seriousness, it's a fun song that will hopefully perform well (who am I kidding, Nicki Minaj is in it, of course it'll do well!).

4. Elastic Love - From the first few seconds of the song, you can tell that it's got a totally retro feel to it. The echoing vocals, the snappy beat all contribute to this effect (my guess is it's supposed to be representative of a rubber band snapping...get it? ELASTIC love? No?). After a while, it really does get on your nerves, but at the same time you can't get it out of your head. I'd recommend it.

5. Desnudate - If Christina was Britney, this is her version of "Get Naked (I Got A Plan)". She forcefully demands her lover to get naked for her. And in Spanish! So not only is it firey, but you know she means business!

6. Love & Glamour (Intro) - The first of several strange and useless interludes.

7. Glam - This song is just average at best. The beat is nothing special, the lyrics are generic, and it's just overall very repetitive.

8. Prima Donna - Okay, now we're talkin'! You can really hear the passion and intensity in Christina's voice throughout the song, and especially during the chorus in this one. Is that Lil' Jon I hear in the background during the final minute or so of the song? I'm not sure...

9. Morning Dessert (Intro) - This doesn't sound like Christina at all! I can't quite put my finger on it, but she definitely doesn't sound like herself here! And the note in the background she hits from roughly 1:07 - 1:10 sounds freakishly like Mariah Carey!

10. Sex for Breakfast - If you have a sleepover with Xtina, don't bother bringing her eggs, toast or OJ. There's only one thing she's hungry for! It's a slow ballad that isn't half bad!

11. Lift Me Up - Another pretty slow song. Normally I'm not a fan of slow songs, but for some reason, I love the ones on here!

12. My Heart (Intro) - The nonsensical babbling man at the beginning sounds like the foreign-speaking man at the beginning of Missy Elliott's "Get Ur Freak On". Then he proceeds to sounds like Fred Willard. This strangeness is followed by Aguilera's song singing like her. If it was just him, the interlude would have been adorable!

13. All I Need - Not really feeling it. It's not bad, though. It's got a jazzy and classical feel to it, which seems out of place on the album.

14. I Am - I'm indifferent towards this one. It's very indie-ish.

15. You Lost Me - This one's also little too indie-ish for me. Christina, you're a pop singer. Please remember that for the next album.

16. I Hate Boys - I don't know what it is, but this one reminds me of "Woohoo". Maybe it's because the chorus seems like a chant, much like "Woohoo"'s.

17. My Girls - It's not horrible, but why on Earth is Peaches famous? Let's be real here.

18. Vanity - This track showcases Aguilera at her most narcissistic attitude. She literally talks about how she turns herself on. Wow. Don't get me wrong, it's catchy, but still Christina. You have a child. You shouldn't be acting like you are his age.

19. Monday Morning - This one sounds like a combination between "Elastic Love" and LaRoux's "Bulletproof". It's really funky and fun!

20. Bobblehead - I'll admit, I do like this song. It does sound like it should have been recorded by Ke$ha.

21. Birds of Prey - It's freaky. In fact, so freaky that it's hypnotizingly good.

22. Stronger Than Ever - The chorus is awesome! But that's about all it's got going for it. The verses are mediocre.

23. I Am (Stripped) - Acoustic version of the same song on the album.

24. Little Dreamer - Only available if you pre-ordered the album from iTunes. It's alright, nothing to write home about.

I'm Drunk And So Is Everyone Else, In This Devil Town

(Singles are italicized, recommendations are in red.)

Had I not gone to a concert last weekend that featured 3OH!3, Travie McCoy and Cobra Starship, I'm almost positive that I would still dislike 3OH!3 as strongly as I did when "Don't Trust Me" and "Starstrukk" were in heavy rotation on radio stations a year ago.

Luckily all that changed last weekend (mainly because the tickets were just $10 - Hell, I paid more for the CD than I did for the concert!). 3OH!3 was definitely the most memorable act of the concert, and they sounded just as good (maybe even better) live than they did on their record. They performed two songs from their new album (out June 29th in the U.S.), but the majority of the songs performed were from their major-label debut, Want. They did also perform a few songs from their independently-released, self-titled debut, but the songs they performed from Want really stood out and convinced me to go out and buy the album.

1. Tapp - The instrumental intro to the album. It's pretty pointless but awesome at the same time. It would have made for an awesome full-length song if it was a little longer and included lyrics.

2. PunkBitch - A fun and wild song that really sets the actual album off on the right foot.

3. Don't Trust Me - The huge smash hit that landed the band on the charts last year. It's been so overplayed, but that's not to say it's not worth the listen every once in a while, especially if you're listening to the album all the way through.

4. ChokeChain - The first of two songs that originally appeared on their self-titled independently-released album. This wild song with its crazy vocals and beat is very reminiscent of something Lil' Jon would do. Very much so that you almost forget that these guys are white...at least for 3 minutes and 32 seconds.

5. I'm Not Your Boyfriend, Baby - I'll sound repetitive if I refer to this song as being wild, fun,crazy, or a party song. That's just the nature of 3OH!3. But that's what this one is.

6. I Can't Do It Alone - This is different from all the other songs so far. They aren't screaming in this one, but it's just very interesting. I can't really explain it!

7. Starstrukk - After hearing the remix with Katy Perry about a million times, it's weird going back and listening to the original. I like it!

8. RichMan - They did this one at the concert, and I'm pretty sure their performance of this made me want the album. It's definitely one of the best on here.

9. PhotoFinnish - I don't really understand this one. Is the title a shout out to their record company? I don't like how one guy's vocals are distorted deep, and the other's is distorted high-ish. It's a weird song.

10. Still Around - A slow, mellow song by 3OH!3?! No way! Yeah, it is! No distorted vocals, no screaming. None of that. It's the best song on the album by far, and I could have it on repeat for hours on end.

11. Holler Till You Pass Out - The second song that was originally on their independently released self titled album. Again, too much distortion of the vocals, and the bass is insanely high.

12. Colorado Sunrise - Another normal one where they just sing! I love it!

13. Starstrukk (Featuring Katy Perry) - THIS is the version we've all heard. I think I still prefer the original one's music, buy Perry's vocals are pretty good and they really switch things up.

14. Don't Trust Me (Benny Blanco Remix) (Featuring Kid Cudi) - Essentially the same as the original, except the first verse of the song was replaced by a rap by Kid Cudi.

15. Still Around (Big Mix) - This is more or less an extended version of the original, but slightly remixed. Either way it's a good one!

After what we did the other night, I wanna be with you for all my life, and I'm so glad you're a freak like me!

(Singles are italicized, recommendations are in red.)

Macy Gray's second studio album is not called The I.D., it's called The Id. Though I wouldn't blame you if you got it confused. The lack of proper grammar on the album's cover threw me off at first too. An Id is a psychological term which is defined as, in the album's disc tray insert as "the part of the psyche that is the source of instinctual impulses and demands for satisfaction". The definition is then followed by a quote by Macy herself. It reads, "What you do before you think. The real you...unedited." Both the definition and the quote (which seems to be Gray's own personal continuation of the definition) hold true to the theme of the album. The emotions on the album are all over the place, but it makes for an intense album!

1. Relating to a Psychopath - Not the best way to open up the album, but it's a decent song.

2. Boo - An intense song about love. Macy sings about all the "b*****s on [her] a**" and how "If this is love // It's a good thing // You don't hate me!"

3. Sexual Revolution - In this one, Gray isn't feeling lovey, she's feeling frisky, and it really shows here! It starts off slow, but it eventually picks up into what turns into just an average song at best.

4. Hey Young World Part 2 - I like this one! It's an inspirational song to children. I'm not too familiar with Slick Rick's original version, but his appearance on here is nice!

5. Sweet Baby - This is such a great song. It was the lead single off the album, which is why I'm surprised the album didn't sell better than it did!

6. Harry - I never really liked this one. It's got a good rock-'n'-roll vibe, but the gospely voices of the background singers just really ruin it. They sound so out of place!

7. Gimme All Your Lovin' Or I Will Kill You - At first you just want to laugh this off as a silly humorous joke (in vein of "I've Committed Murder" from her debut album), but after a while it becomes excessively violent. So excessively violent to the point where it's creepy. A good kind of creepy, I think.

8. Don't Come Around - A sad little breakup song about the heartbreak of remaining friends with your ex. It's the most normal song on the album (alongside Sweet Baby), and it's a very good listen.

9. My Nutmeg Phantasy - This one's strange but you just have to accept it for what it is. I really like it though!

10. Freak Like Me - You'd think this would be a really explicit and in-your-face track, when in reality it isn't. It's more balladish, and it has that little hint of '70s funk!

11. Oblivion - I can honestly say, hands down, this is the freakiest song I have ever heard. It's got carnival / masquerade type backing music, and it's just so out of place on this album. It's refreshing, so I like it, but it's just plain freaky!

12. Forgiveness - Strange beat, and Gray sounds somewhat intoxicated or hypnotized in this one, but the message that we all need forgiveness is great.

13. Blowin' Up Your Speakers - I don't really see the purpose in this one. It's just an instrumental of random instruments...

14. Shed - Though not mentioned on the album's artwork, it's available on all editions of the album. It's nothing special, but it's good. It almost reminds me of "Rather Hazy" from her debut album.

I Really Wanna Know What We Did Wrong, With A Love That Felt So Strong...

Okay, I will admit, the resurgence of my love for Britney has certainly been reflected in this review blog. Hang on tight, after this single review there's only 2 more studio albums and 2 compilation albums by her to review! I probably won't review them all in a row, so we'll be taking a Britney break after this.

This song was released as her debut album (...Baby One More Time)'s fourth single in some European countries, and shockingly enough, there's quite a bit of history surrounding this song.

Originally, the song was a lot more sexual and mature than the final product, and apparently the only way the then- 16-year-old Britney agreed to do this one was if they altered lyrics and verses to become less explicit. I would sure love to know what the original lyrics were!

Another interesting fact I learned in my research of the song: For the original concept of the video, they were going to have Britney in a dream, dwelling on the past of her and her ex, but there's a twist! She was pregnant with his kid! Apparently the storyline leaked and there was lots of negative feedback, so the record company changed the concept. Would have been interesting to see how the video would have turned out had they gone with their original concept.

Sure, I did find this CD Single as an import in FYE for $6.99 tonight, and I would be lying if I said I didn't overpay for it. But I couldn't not pass this one up. This is probably my favorite Pop song of all time. It's just so sweet. Plus, this version of the CD single definitely offers the most material. Sure, I did already own mp3s of these 4 tracks, but i wanted the official release. Here's my short-but-sweet review:

1. Born to Make You Happy (Radio Edit) - The original, amazing song that has been butchered for radio airplay. It's bittersweet that they didn't release BTMYH as a single here in the U.S., because it's such a beautiful song. On the other hand, the radio edit cuts the last 30 seconds of the song, in which Britney belts out the final half of the song's chorus. It's absolutely amazing, but unfortunately, it was cut from the radio edit.

2. Born to Make You Happy (Bonus Remix) - I don't think I'd technically call this one a remix. More like an acoustic version. This one features Britney and a guitar, with minimal other instruments. It's great, and really shows off her vocal abilities. I'm not really sure if I prefer this one or the album version better.

3. (You Drive Me) Crazy (Jazzy Jim's Hip-Hop Mix) - The same vocals and lyrics are used here as the ones used in the "Stop! Remix", but they are placed over a different beat. It's really funky and cool, I just wish they had used the vocals and lyrics that they used for the original album mix.

4. ...Baby One More Time (Answering Machine Message) - A 21-second instrumental of Britney's debut single ...Baby One More Time, in which Britney tells people that the recipient of the call can't come to the phone, and that they should leave a message, and "Baby, they'll call you back...one more time!", followed by the "Hit me baby one more time!" used in the chorus of the song. It's clever and fun for some hardcore fans, but somewhat useless.

Its Only Your Shadow, Never Yourself, Its Only Your Shadow, Nobody Else, Its Only Your Shadow, Filling The Room, Arriving Too Late, & Leaving Too Soon

(Singles are italicized. Recommendations are in red).

First off, I must apologize for using "Its" in place of "It's" in this review's title. There wasn't enough space to use proper grammar AND fit the entirety of my favorite lyric in that one tiny title box. On that note, on to the review:

On her final, pre-breakdown Britney album, In The Zone, Britney Spears really shifted directions from her previous effort, Britney. Rather than songs about love, relationships and growing up, Spears serves up a batch of songs about sex, partying, and dependency (on another person, that is). Is it a bad thing? No, not necessarily. She doesn't totally overdo it, and not every song is about the same thing, which makes In The Zone such a fun record.

1. Me Against The Music (Featuring Madonna) - The first single from the album. For some reason, I have a tendency to not be a huge fan of singles, and this is no exception. Don't get me wrong, I like it, but something about it is just...odd. Madonna's vocals are just too weird and tweaked, making her verse almost painful to listen to.

2. (I Got That) Boom Boom (Featuring The Ying Yang Twins) - I love this one. Britney skillfully blends the Hip-Hop/Rap genre with country and pop, and it's great. The Ying Yang Twins' vocals really shake things up a bit on this really fun track.

3. Showdown - Okay, now it's time to cool things down. This is another really interesting one. It's a bit on the naughty side, but that's what's fun about it. The chorus starts simply with "Here comes the showdown // What goes around comes around // And the crowds are waiting".

4. Breathe On Me - Another sensual, sexy song. It's got a very techno feel to it, so it's another different approach for her.

5. Early Mornin' - This song, produced by Moby, is all about partying, coming home late, and "Getting drunk 'til the break of dawn", because "it don't stop // Til the early mornin'". Its got a spacey, blurry vibe to it, making you feel as if you're drunk or hungover yourself. I really love this one.

6. Toxic - One of Britney's signature songs. In a nutshell, this guy she's talking about...his love is toxic!

7. Outrageous - This has got to be the most bizarre song on the album. The R. Kelly-produced track has a middle-eastern sound, and it just feels so out of place on here. I hate R. Kelly, which is probably one of the reasons I hate this song - because his background howls and hoots, erm, I mean, "vocals" on here are annoying and unnecessary. But, if it's any consolation, I enjoy the Junkie XL Dancehall Mix of the song (that was on her Greatest Hits album).

8. Touch Of My Hand - This song about "lovin' yourself" (for lack of a better appropriate phrase), is so hypnotizing. It's bound to put you in a trance. A good, hypnotizing trance. Very well done!

9. The Hook Up - I really like this fun party song! This would have been a good choice for a single. Very funky, very fun. I just can't praise this one enough.

10. Shadow - I used to skip over this one, but now it's the song I go directly to! It's such a nice slow song that will move you but also has a killer chorus that will never leave your head. Genius.

11. Brave New Girl - Life's been bad? Can't catch a break? Get up, get out and move on with life! Don't dwell on the past! Or at least that's what Britney says in this feelgood song.

12. Everytime - A song about needing someone that it's hard to go on. It's a really sweet, yet haunting ballad. I love it, personally.

13. Me Against The Music (Rishi Rich's Desi Kulcha Remix) (Featuring Madonna) - This is essentially the same as the first track, just with a different beat. Not too much is changed.

14. Don't Hang Up - Only appearing on Non-North American releases, it's easy to see where this song would get on someone's nerves. The chorus is pretty catchy, though.

15. The Answer - Britney's in love, and she wants people to know it! This track is also not on North American pressings.

Don't Leave Me Waitin' Longer, Why You Wanna Make Me Long For Ya?

(Singles are italicized, recommendations are in red).

If there's any pop star who made the stealthiest, most gradual transition from wholesome, sweet teen to freaky and flirty free bird, Britney Spears would be the one. With her 1999 debut album, ...Baby One More Time, Britney came across as a sweet moral-driven teenage girl. That slowly changed in 2000 with her second album, Oops!...I Did It Again, which showed us a slightly more provocative Spears gracing the album's cover with her midriff, and a little more adult lyrics. By 2001, the sweet teen that once was Britney Spears was long gone and abandoned in order to make way for the new, grown-up, more risque Britney, and there was no looking back from there. With the release of Britney, we show a more mature Britney, who at this point in time was not completely trashy or tacky. She was just Britney trying to find out who she was as an adult and as an entertainer. It's not a complete mess, but it's one of my least favorite pre-breakdown Britney albums.

1. I'm A Slave 4 U - The debut single that shocked critics and fans alike! This steamy, sexy track manages to keep things semi-classy, yet addictive. From the moment the first line is spoken "I know I may be young // But I've got feelings too", it's clear that Britney wants us to know one thing: she's grown up, but she's still young.

2. Overprotected - Another song about growing up and being free. Britney talks about how she feels so overprotected. It's not the greatest song here, but it's not the worst.

3. Lonely - As if one didn't learn from Oops!..'s "Don't Go Knockin' On My Door", an angry Britney howls that she's moved on and she will not take you back. I like to think of this one as Don't Go Knockin' On My Door, Part 2.

4. I'm Not A Girl, Not Yet A Woman - Does the title not tell it all? It's a pretty song, and the message is clear that she's grown enough to make her own decisions, but still needs time to learn from her mistakes.

5. Boys - The beat and music for this song is... different, and I was in love with this song for that reason for a really long time. Looking back on it now and listening to it again, while I enjoy it, I can't say I enjoy it as much. Still recommended, though. I enjoyed the Co-Ed remix with Pharrell much better.

6. Anticipating - This is probably the best song on the album. It's all about going out and having fun with your friends, and that's what life at this age should be about.

7. I Love Rock 'n' Roll - It's a different style for Britney. I don't hate it, and it's a welcomed addition. Very fun song. On an interesting side note, by this point in her career, Britney had at least 1 cover song on each of her three albums.

8. Cinderella - Here's another song I used to love, but now I'm just not a fan. It's a good listen, but there's better on the album.

9. Let Me Be - Like a few other songs from this album, the title says it all: go away! You don't know the real me! It's not very angry, just Britney calmly telling the listener to leave well enough alone.

10. Bombastic Love - This is another unique song. It sounds like a typical pop song but at the same time it doesn't. Either way it's great.

11. That's Where You Take Me - A sweet ballad that will surely make your heart melt. I'm lovin' it.

12. What It's Like To Be Me - Her then-boyfriend Justin Timberlake partially wrote and produced, as well as provided backing vocals on this somewhat average song. Take it or leave it.

Non-North American Bonus Tracks:

1. When I Found You - It's okay, but when it's sequenced after That's Where You Take Me (as it is on international Special Editions), the message and themes of the two songs lose their meanings and things just start to sound repetitive. Either way, this song is just somewhat bland to begin with.

2. I Run Away - This one's a little weird. Her voice is too "airy" and "whispery" here.

3. Before The Goodbye - This is the best out of all 3 bonus tracks, though that's not saying much. This one's a tad bland too. I'm beginning to see why these three tracks weren't included on all editions of the album!

Lost in an image, in a dream...

(Singles are italicized. Recommendations are in red.)

No, I will not apologize for all the recent Britney love. I've been a fan of hers over random periods of time. From 1999 - 2002, the end of 2003 - 2004, and then from late 2007 - 2009. My respect for her has gone up and down throughout the years, and just a few weeks ago, my respect has been gained back, mainly focusing on her first two albums. Either way, in 2000, just 16 months after the release of her debut album, her sophomore album, Oops!...I Did It Again dropped. One would guess that the album would be inferior to her debut, due to the proximity of the two albums' release dates. Impressively, this was not the case. Although I wouldn't quite say Oops! was better than ...Baby, but not worse at all. Despite some people's belief that Oops! was just a rush effort to ride onto the charts just as ...Baby's success slowly decreased, it was obvious that this was not true, since chart positions and sales showed that fans were still hungry for more Britney.

1. Oops!...I Did It Again - I'm not sure if it's because it was horrifically overplayed back in the day, or if it's so repetitive, but the lead single is probably my least favorite from the album. Nowadays, I always skip it.

2. Stronger - While this one was also occasionally overplayed, it's not as bad as the first single. I still love this song.

3. Don't Go Knockin' On My Door - I was never too crazy about this one, but it's pretty darn catchy. By this point in her career, we had never seen Britney this angry and edgy, so it's somewhat refreshing. After this song, there's the first of a few interludes. The interlude here serves as an intro to the following song, and is Britney's friend telling her how she's never satisfied, but she refutes with a "Well, I know I'm a little picky, but, hey. I just know what I want!" Stick it to the man (or, in this case, girl)!

4. (I Can't Get No) Satisfaction - Many people have bashed Brit for covering a song like this so early on in her career, but I gotta give her props for this one. It's a decent cover of the Rolling Stones song by the same name. I like it a lot.

5. Don't Let Me Be The Last To Know - The final single released off of the album was also the single that performed the poorest. I never really understood why, it's a really great song. The video, however, was a little more sexual than anything she'd done before.

6. What U See (Is What U Get) - One of my favorites. It's one of those classic "This is me. You can't and you won't change me." songs. While it's a tad cliche, it's got a great, funky beat, and meaningful lyrics. Appended to this is the second interlude on the album. A guy leaves a voicemail for Britney talking about how the movie they saw the other night about the girl who had all that fame, and all that money and how she still wasn't happy. He finishes with "Wouldn't that make a cool song?", segueing into...

7. Lucky - It's so hard to pick favorite songs on any album, since I love a ton of them. If I had to pick, this'd probably be my favorite. A song about a Hollywood starlet who has money, fame and fortune, yet still isn't satisfied with life.

8. One Kiss From You - Britney basically tells us about how the kiss of the boy she's crushing on gives her the strength and the power to carry on through the day. Not the worst song, but far from the best.

9. Where Are You Now - For a loooooonnnnnnnngggggg time this was my favorite song on the album. I still love it, but I just don't find it as good as I used to. Definitely recommended, though.

10. Can't Make You Love Me - Maybe it's me, but I feel like this could be "Lucky, Part 2", from the perspective of the star Spears sang about in track 7. She talks about how she has it all made in the shade, but she can't make somebody love her. Again, not one of my favorites.

11. When Your Eyes Say It - Another great song. It's a slow ballad about communicating with your eyes...ooh la la! (On North American pressings of the album, an interlude is included in which Britney is with friends and she sees a boy whom she thinks is cute. Her friends persuade her to approach him but she doesn't know what to say. This then segues into Dear Diary, which is track 12. On Non North American editions, this interlude is appended to the end of Heart, which segues into Dear Diary, which is track 15 on all other editions.)

12. Girl In The Mirror - (Only available on Non North American pressings of the album.) In this song of self-realization, Spears talks about a "girl" in her "mirror". "I wonder who she is // Sometimes I think I know her // Sometimes I really wish I did". Britney says "There's nothing I can tell her // To make her feel alright" because the girl is sad and "Crying 'cause of you". In the end "I can't believe what I see // The girl in the mirror // Is me!". It's a very powerful song, and I love it.

13. You Got It All - (Only available on Non North American pressings of the album.) The second cover song on the album. This one was originally recorded by The Jets. Her vocals are very powerful, strong and pure in this one. Apparently this was recorded during the ...Baby One More Time sessions, which makes sense, because the way her vocals and the music sound on this one feels like it would fit more in place on that album.

14. Heart - (Only available on Non North American pressings of the album.) A breakup song. Britney has a 'discussion' with her heart. Saying "all the hurt will soon be gone" and that "he wasn't meant to be". It's another powerful and emotional song. (On Non North American editions of the album, the interlude in which Britney is with friends and she sees a boy whom she thinks is cute is appended to the end of THIS track, and segues into Dear Diary, track 15 on Non North American pressings.)

15. Dear Diary - (Appears as track 12, the final track, on North American pressings.) For years and years, I absolutely hated this song, and I continued to do so until recently, but now I don't think it's half bad. It's Britney writing in her diary about seeing (and subsequently meeting) a boy who she has feelings for. She concludes the song with "Diary, do ya think that we'll be more than friends? // I've got a feeling we'll be so much more // Than friends".

16. Walk On By - (Only on Australian and New Zealand pressings.) - I just heard this song for the very first time tonight. I'm lovin' it! The beat sorta reminds me of a mixture between Sometimes, Deep In My Heart and I Will Be There (from her debut album ...Baby One More Time).

You're All I See, Yeah, Oh, But Don't Come Near Me At All...

(Singles italicized. Recommendations are in red.)

The only child of Elvis Presley, Lisa Marie had lots to do to establish herself as her own individual, to prove that she was not simply "The King's daughter". Finally, in 2003, at 35 years old, it seemed to be time to do so. With her debut, To Whom It May Concern, it seemed that the album could be her own personal "letter" to the world that she wanted to be known for something other than being a Presley. A Presley who was married many, many times. In any case, To Whom It May Concern had decent sales, but those sales quickly dwindled, and she was back where she started. I'm not sure why, though. The album was a solid effort and although I only discovered it last year (after revisiting her sophomore attempt, Now What, after 4 years), I still find myself constantly listening to it.

1. S.O.B (Son of a Bitch) - LMP certainly holds nothing back in her first track. With awesome background music, strong and powerful vocals, and out-of-this-world metaphors, she truly starts the album off on the right foot.

2. The Road Between - A song about a lover that's out of your life, but not out of your head. Is there anyone who can't relate to this one?! A+ job.

3. Lights Out - Lisa Marie's debut single. Sometimes known by its working title (which was "Memphis"), it's a song written about her hometown, and her family there. Very good track, with a hint of country in it, but not overwhelming.

4. Better Beware - She's angry, so what else is new? It's not my favorite here, but it's a funky little song that makes you want to dance.

5. Nobody Noticed It - Reportedly written about her father, it's a sweet little soft rock song that's sometimes referred to by its working title "You Made Me, I Love You". Again, not my favorite, but it's worth a listen every once in a while.

6. Sinking In - Here we have another breakup song, but this time the tables have turned! Lisa hurt her man, he broke up with her, but she doesn't want it to end!

7. Important - This song is just plain weird. I don't really understand it. Or maybe I do, and just think I interpreted it all wrong. It's one of the low points on the album, but I don't mind it.

8. So Lovely - This song, written about her children, is just amazing. My favorite track on the album. If you tweak a few of the lyrics in some verses to your own liking, this makes a really sweet love song. I just can't put into words how much I love this song.

9. Indifferent - Like I said in other reviews, the track after my favorite song on each album just doesn't seem as good. I mean, I like this song, but (as I've said before), I think it's all about coming down from the high of the "favorite track".

10. Gone - One of those 'take it or leave it' songs that you just have to be in the mood for. I'm not sure I like her voice in this one. It almost seems like she's howling or something here. I'd say this is my least favorite track.

11. To Whom It May Concern - The title track is (shockingly) about...the medical world? LMP expresses her anger to what she feels are doctors' "There's something wrong with your kids? Drug them! That solves everything!" attitude. It sends out a very powerful message, and this track also has a hint of country to it.

BONUS TRACKS:

12. Excuse Me - (Note: On U.S. pressings, this is appended to the end of track 11). Using only a guitar and her voice, LMP really rocks it. It's quite a random song, but I like it anyway.

13. Savior - (Included at the end of Excuse Me, which is indexed as track 12 on Non-U.S. pressings. This does not appear on U.S. pressings). This song is all about betrayal, and the tone, music, lyrics, and vocals are all simply haunting.

Now, Who's Gonna Save Me Next Time?

(Singles are italicized, recommendations are in red.)

Lisa Marie Presley has been a name that many people have seen in the news, across tabloids, and in entertainment for a while. Not only is she the daughter of The King (Elvis), but she's also notorious for her many marriages, most notably to The King of Pop, Michael Jackson. So it's a wonder why she decided to wait until 2003 to launch her music career, with her debut album To Whom It May Concern (for which a review will be coming later tonight or tomorrow). I will admit, back in 2005 when this album was first released, it was a total blind-buy for me. I was in my local Costco and had returned a CD, and was hungry for new music. I recognized LMP's name because her song "Lights Out" had been on the Now 13 compilation around the time of its release, and I liked it. In any case, her sophomore effort, Now What has proven that she only gets better with each album, and with a third album tentatively scheduled for later this year, it's obvious that there's no stopping Ms. Presley anytime soon.

1. I'll Figure It Out - What a great way to open up an album. She gets really into it, and you can tell it here.

2. Turbulence - It just keeps getting better! Here we find an angry Presley saying "You're the last little s**t // That anyone expected could put me through this // Yeah, f****r, it's true". Near the halfway point, her vocals REALLY pick up, sending the listener (or at least me), into an intense, rocker sensation that make you want to get up and rock out. Or punch somebody's lights out.

3. Thanx - This one really took a while to grow on me, but it did, and it's a great song. It's simply LMP's thank-you song to those who've stuck by her through the good and bad times.

4. Shine (featuring P!nk) - A somewhat inspirational track, with background vocals by P!nk (who, if you're not familiar with, is an equally angry and hostile female singer). It's a bit mellow, but still good. If I had to choose, I'd say this is the weakest track on here.

5. Dirty Laundry - The album's first single! It's also a cover of a popular 1980's rock song by Don Henley. It's pure awesomeness at its finest (I know, not really a word, but it's all I can use to express my feelings). I was confused at first, because she leaves out a verse halfway through the song, but the lyrics to that verse are printed in the album's liner notes. Oh well.

6. When You Go - As close to "ballad" as the album gets, this song is one of my favorites.

7. Idiot - The angriest song on the album is probably one of the best. It hasn't been said just exactly who the song was written about, but maybe that's for the better. Wouldn't you be humiliated if the chorus to a song about you was "Oh please // Remember me // Believe // In me as someone // Who's never gonna wish you well // Oh please // Remember me // Believe // In me as someone // Who wants you to go to Hell". Oh, and you can't forget the lines like "I wanna mutilate myself // When I talk to you". Whew! Later in 2005 this awesome song was accompanied by an equally awesome music video, as it became the albums second and final single. I'll be honest, though. If I had a dollar for all the people I wish I could dedicate this song to, I'd be a friggin' millionaire.

8. High Enough - This one's just plain eerie. I never totally warmed up to it, but if it wasn't so creepy (her vocals, the music), I'd like it more.

9. Turned to Black - This is another one I didn't immediately warm up to at first, but I ultimately liked it a lot. The guitar, the drums, the vocals. Everything about it is just genius.

10. Raven - I heard somewhere that LMP wrote this song to her mother. I'm not sure if that's true or not, but regardless it's a very sweet, forgiving song.

11. Now What - Here we have a very beautiful track that is mainly just vocals and guitar. It's an awesome song that finds LMP leaving her lover.

BONUS TRACKS:

12. Here Today, Gone Tomorrow - (It should be noted that on U.S. pressings, this song is appended to the end of track 11, resulting in a 7-minute running time). This is a very well done cover of a Ramones song, that was originally intended to be on a Ramones tribute album. For some reason, it never made it there, but luckily she used it for the album.

13. Yellow to Blue - I'm so disappointed that this wasn't included on U.S. editions of the album. It's one of my absolute favorite LMP songs. After years of searching, some wonderful person posted it on YouTube and I'm loving it. (Only available on Japanese pressings of the album, though I'm not sure if it's indexed as its own track or appended to track 12...if Here Today, Gone Tomorrow is indexed as its own track. If not, then I assume Now What, HTGT and this one are all one giant track.)

I'm Not Who You Think I Am. Let Go. Get Out While You Can.

(Singles are italicized, recommendations are in red.)

In early 2003, the music industry was not sitting well with me. Half of my favorite artists had just recently released material that I wasn't too satisfied with, while the other half had seemingly fallen off the face of the Earth. You could imagine my delight when a talented musician named Lucy Woodward released her single, "Dumb Girls" -- a fun and energetic, yet angry song that was just catchy enough to get me hooked. I quickly made it a point to own her debut album, but didn't get it right away (I wound up getting it for my birthday, almost 2 months after its release). It's a good thing I did, too! On a little side note, I found it cool that the album was released in Japan on my birthday, the day I got (the U.S. version of) the album!

1. Dumb Girls - The first single released off the album was a wise decision. As I said before, it's a fun and energetic, yet very angry song that was perfectly catchy. She's warning the listener to expect the unexpected, because anything that can happen will happen. Bravo!

2. Blindsided - This is the song that was chosen for the second single. Many critics and fans aren't too big on this one. They blame this song for Lucy not having more success, but I love it! It's so addictive!

3. Trust Me (You Don't Wanna See This) - Here we have my absolute favorite on the album. Lucy shows her freakier, sexier side on this one, while still maintaining her cool. You go, girl!

4. Is This Hollywood - I used to love it, but now it's not the greatest. I guess it just wore out its welcome after I listened to it for the millionth time. It's still a good track, though.

5. Trouble With Me - The third (and final) single. Another good rock track that I would recommend in a heartbeat.

6. What's Good For Me - You might recognize this from the 2003 Amanda Bynes movie What a Girl Wants. Look out, everybody! Lucy's determined to get what she wants and she will let nothing stop her!

7. Standing - A ballad! It's not a full-out, slow ballad. I'd call it...soft rock. It's a nice song about being strong through a breakup, that I'm sure we all can relate to.

8. The Breakdown - In a weird way, this song is somewhat inspirational. In this rock song that just so happens to be sandwiched between two ballads, Lucy is saying that there's love for everyone out there, you just have to look for it.

9. Always Something - I always used to skip this song for the longest time. I just didn't like having a ballad, a rock song, and another ballad. 7 years later, I've grown to really appreciate it, and it's my favorite ballad on here.

10. Gettin' It On - Lucy gets a little freaky here! She manages to keep it classy, though. She goes all out in this rock track, and it's a very excitable party tune.

11. Done - She slow things down for the final track with a nice ballad to wrap things up. It's a sad song about being used, but her voice is very nice here.

BONUS TRACKS

12. More To Life - Yes, this is the song that Stacie Orrico made popular. Woodward penned and originally recorded the song, but later gave it to Orrico to use. Woodward's version was not used on worldwide versions of her album, but it was used on Japanese perssings. You can't really compare Woodward's version to Orrico's. Their voices are too different, so it would be like comparing apples and oranges. Woodward's version definitely seems superior in any case.

13. Vine To Vine - I have never heard this song. It appears on Japanese pressings and is ultra rare. I would love to get ahold of it!

Always and Forever, You and Me. That's the way our lives should be.

(Singles are italicized, recommendations are in red.)

Whether you like to admit it or not, you know Britney Spears changed the music industry forever when she released her debut single ...Baby One More Time in 1998, and her debut album of the same name in early 1999. Britney Spears became a household name almost instantly, and ...Baby One More Time not only became her biggest selling album to date, but also one of the best selling albums of all time. Recently, I found myself singing Born to Make You Happy in my head, which triggered memories of when my 8-year-old life was simple, 10 years ago (I didn't purchase the album right away). Flashbacks to me listening to the entire album and enjoying every second of the album. Why not share the love and review it?

1. ...Baby One More Time - Spears' debut single that everyone knew the words to back in the day. Interestingly enough, the song was written for successful female trio TLC (presumably for their Fanmail album, released a little over a month after this one). The girls rejected the song, and it was given to Spears. Good thing, too!

2. (You Drive Me) Crazy - I'm in love with the album version of the song. The "Stop! Remix", which was released as a single, just wasn't as good. Regardless, I love this song. From the electric guitar, to the lyrics, to Spears' natural vocals. It's all good.

3. Sometimes - Normally, I like Britney's ballads, but for some reason, this just doesn't cut it. I guess it makes sense, though, considering Britney herself says she never really liked the song. Oops!

4. Soda Pop - I don't know how I feel about this one. It's part reggae, part pop. Who's that man singing with her? This is one of those songs you just have to be in the mood for. If it's any consolation, Britney's vocals are great at parts of this one.

5. Born to Make You Happy - Oh. My. God. Britney definitely redeems herself (and then some)

with this song. This is such an absolutely amazing and phenomenal ballad and overall song. Her vocals are absolutely phenomenal here, and this is, without a doubt, my favorite Britney Spears song ever. It's about being in a state of desperation for somebody you're crazy about, and I'm sure everyone can relate to it at some point or another. Phenomenal song.

6. From the Bottom of My Broken Heart - I'm not sure if by this point in the record I am still coming down from the high that is the previous track, or if I'm just not a huge fan of this one. I like the lyrics and meaning of the song, I really do. Just something about Brit's vocals or the beat or something is just not doing it for me.

7. I Will Be There - Okay, this is good. It's a simple song about friendship, and Britney really shows off her powerful, natural vocals here.

8. I Will Still Love You (Duet with Don Philip) - Let's just discuss the elephant in the room here for a second. Who on Earth is Don Philip? Well, 11 years later, I decided to do some research. I was shocked to learn that back in '99, he was an up-and-coming pop singer who (by the pictures I've seen) appeared to be between the ages of 16 - 18. His debut album was only released in Japan (I'm guessing it was scrapped by Jive?), and from the clips I listened to he sounded really good. Don't know why he never made it. Anyways! This is a sweet ballad about always being there for your lover, no matter what happens. I enjoy it a lot, but Don Philips' vocals just sound so out of place here. I know I said he sounded good before, but that's when he's solo. His and Spears' vocals both contrast (and at the same time, blend) too much here.

9. Deep In My Heart - Wait. You mean to tell me that you've had this album for 11 years and you've never heard "Deep in My Heart"? Oh, that's because this is the bonus track that's only available on Non-U.S. pressings of the album! It's a good thing, too. Don't get me wrong, it's good, but it's also one of those 'take it or leave it' songs.

10. Thinkin' About You - Meh. I'm indifferent towards this one. I like the verses, but the chorus gets under my skin sometimes.

11. E-Mail My Heart - I don't care what the critics say. This is more than just some 'cheesy ballad'. I personally think it's great. It's my guilty pleasure on the album.

12. The Beat Goes On - This is a cover of the classic Sonny & Cher song. It's just not for me. Britney's vocals are just all weird here. Almost sounds like she's trying to sound like Christina Aguilera here.

13. I'll Never Stop Loving You - A Non-U.S. track. This ballad is just okay, but it's too similar to "I Will Still Love You" and "Deep in My Heart", in terms of concept.

14. Autumn Goodbye - Another Non-U.S. track. Well this one's sorta depressing, considering it's the 3rd or 4th breakup track on here. It's a really good one, though. I recommend it.

(The Davidson Ospina Remix and Boy Wunder Remix of ...Baby One More Time are included as tracks 15 and 16 respectively, but since they're simply remixes, there's no need to review them.)

We Can Live Forever, I Can Be Your Pagan Angel, Angel, Beautiful Dangerous...

(Singles are italicized, recommendations are in red.)

I totally stumbled upon Slash's debut album Slash -- sometimes referred to by fans as Slash & Friends or R&FNR (that is, Rock 'n' F****n' Roll) -- by mistake. I was browsing the iTunes top 100 songs, and came across the song from this album called "Beautiful Dangerous", which featured Fergie. I loved Fergie's solo album, so I decided to preview "Beautiful Dangerous". Loved it. Loved the energy. The lyrics. The hard rock feel. So I decided to give the rest of the album a try.

I'm not a huge hard rock fan, and I'm still young, so I had no clue who Slash was at first. I Wikipedia'd him (yeah, I just turned that into a verb), and found out he was the guitarist for Guns 'N' Roses. Don't judge. I knew who Guns 'N' Roses are, I was just never a big enough fan to learn the band members' names or albums. I knew a few of their signature songs (Sweet Child O' Mine, Paradise City, Knockin' on Heaven's Door and Welcome to the Jungle were the only ones), but that's about it.

Anyways, I'm glad Slash collaborated with such a wide variety of artists for his record. It kept me hooked the entire time.

1. "Ghosts" (featuring Ian Astbury) - What a great album opener. I'm not too familiar with the band U2, but this sounds like a U2 song, although Astbury is part of the band The Cult.

2. "Crucify the Dead" (featuring Ozzy Osbourne & Taylor Hawkins) - Something about this song is just eerie. Not a bad kind of eerie, though. I like it.

3. "Beautiful Dangerous" (featuring Fergie) - This is, by leaps and bounds, my absolute favorite track on here. Fergie's stellar performance here shows that this chick can sing absolutely any type of music. She rocks it, and she rocks it good.

4. "Back from Cali" (featuring Myles Kennedy) - I have no idea who Myles Kennedy is (don't judge me if I should), but he's a good vocalist. His voice sounds like someone, I just can't quite put my finger on it. Great song.

5. "Promise" (featuring Chris Cornell) - This is my second favorite track on here. It's a mixture of eerie and awesome.

6. "By the Sword" (featuring Andrew Stockdale of Wolfmother) - Here we have a slightly more mellow track, which slows down the pace of the album for a bit, but not in a bad way. It's a great addition here.

7. "Gotten" (featuring Adam Levine) - Levine's voice is so unique. Sometimes annoying at time, but they made it work for this track. It's another mellow track that I love.

8. "Doctor Alibi" (Lemmy Kilmister) - Motorhead's Lemmy Kilmister lends his vocals to this track, that I can't say I like too much. I'm not a huge fan of songs that are screamed, and not sung, but that's just me.

9. "Watch This" (featuring Dave Grohl and Duff McKagan) - Velvet Revolver's Duff McKagan and Foo Fighters' Dave Grohl team up with Slash for this awesome instrumental track that is nothing but fun.

10. "I Hold On" (featuring Kid Rock) - Sure, I think he's trash, but I like me some Kid Rock every now and then. It's a good song, and it's refreshing to hear Kid Rock's voice after not having heard him in a few years.

11. "Nothing to Say" (featuring M. Shadows) - M. Shadows from Avenged Sevenfold teams up with Slash here for an okay track. It's not one of my favorites, but it's worth a listen or two.

12. "Starlight" (featuring Myles Kennedy) - Okay. I take back my statement that "Promise" was my second favorite track on the album. Second place is a toss-up between that and this one. LOVELOVELOVE this one.

13. "Saint is a Sinner Too" (featuring Rocco Deluca) - No idea who Rocco Deluca is, and that's probably for the best. His creepy voice intrudes on this very, very strange track. Skip this one.

14. "We're All Gonna Die" (featuring Iggy Pop) - The man will be 63 years old tomorrow (as I just found out when researching him), but he rocks it regardless. This is an awesome way to end the album.

BONUS TRACKS:

1. "Sahara" (featuring Inaba Koshi) - No idea what he's saying because it's in Japanese, but this song is just pure awesomeness from start to finish. (Appears as track 15 on Japanese pressings.)

2. "Chains and Shackles" (featuring Nick Oliveri) - I'm not a huge fan of this one. Perhaps it's because it's a "screamer" song. (Appears as track 15 on Australian pressings.)

3. "Paradise City" (featuring Fergie and Cypress Hill) - Fergie and Cypress Hill really rock this cover of a GNR classic. It's great. (Track 16 on Australian iTunes Pre-Ordered editions. Also track 15 on Brazillian pressings, as well as Best Buy and Napster exclusive editions.)

4. "Baby Can't Drive" (featuring Alice Cooper and Nicole Scherzinger) - Alice Cooper and Nicole Scherzinger of The Pussycat Dolls lends her vocals to this awesome track. (Track 16 on Brazillian pressings, as well as Best Buy and Napster exclusive editions. Also track 15 on Classic Rock Slashpack Edition.)

5. "Mother Maria" (featuring Beth Hart) - Whoever this chick is, she sounds like Melissa Etheridge. Not too sure if I like it or not, but it'll do for now. (Track 15 on U.S. iTunes Exclusive version.)

6. "Sahara (English Version)" (featuring Koshi Inaba) - The all-English version of the great song that was only available in Japan. (Was available as track 16 in the U.S. iTunes Music Store if you Pre-Ordered the album.)

There's a place downtown, where the freaks all come around...

(Singles are italicized, recommendations are in red.)

When you first heard the song "TiK ToK" and heard the name "Ke$ha", did you not think she was a Keri Hilson, Nikki Minaj, or Kelis wanna be from the ghetto? Did it ever cross your mind that she was a 22-year-old up and coming singer who originated in - wait for it - Nashville?! No, I didn't either.

I'll admit, I hated "TiK ToK" with a burning passion. But a friend convinced me to give the album a try, so I reluctantly did. I was surprised. Very surprised at what I heard! Seven years in the making, Animal not only shows Ke$ha's potential as an artist, but it shows that she's more than just "that TiK ToK girl". Interesting tidbit, before she was famous, Ke$ha and her family were featured on a season 3 episode of Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie's reality show, "The Simple Life". Ke$ha's family was one of the families the girls stayed with.

1. "Your Love Is My Drug" - The album's current single finds our girl Ke$ha admitting that she is like a "lovesick crackhead". It's a fun opening party track, that ends with Ke$ha saying "Hey / So / I like your beard".

2. "TiK ToK" - I don't like this song. At all. Never have, never will. Simple as that!

3. "Take It Off" - She really redeems herself here after the obnoxious disaster that is "TiK ToK". This one's another fun party song that is not to be taken too seriously.

4. "Kiss 'n' Tell" - Watch out everyone! Ke$ha's mad, and there's no stopping her. In this one, she yells at a girl for being a slut. Nonetheless, it's fun to listen to.

5. "Stephen" - The beginning is very weird, but once the song picks up, you're guaranteed to love it. It chronicles Ke$ha's desperation over a guy that won't call her. It's a nice, slower song, but it's a definite welcomed addition.

6. "Blah Blah Blah" (featuring 3OH!3) - Here's the song that I never ever get tired of, no matter how many times I hear it. It's the album's second single, and it's VERY fun to dance or rock out to, and 3OH!3's verse is pretty awesome if I do say so myself.

7. "Hungover" - My favorite track on the album. It's not typical Ke$ha. Her heart is broken, and she put it into a song. Plain and simple. It's a great slow(er) song that's definitely worth a listen.

8. "Party At a Rich Dude's House" - Like I've said before to other songs on other artists' albums, this is the song that you just have to be in the mood for. The beat and concept are pretty cool, but the lyrics are just mediocre.

9. "Backstabber" - Another song I could do without. It's too similar to "Kiss 'n' Tell".

10. "Blind" - I love this one! She should really do more slower songs. Her boyfriend dumped her, but she won't let him see her at her worst. She knows that he's nothing without her. Attagirl!

11. "Dinosaur" - This one is just so strange. It's about an old guy hitting on her and her friends, and is yet another one I could easily do without. Kinda creepy.

12. "Dancing With Tears In My Eyes" - It's just kinda okay. Nothing really special.

13. "Boots & Boys" - Again, just okay.

14. "Animal" - What a GREAT way to end the album! Bravo, Ke$ha. Bravo.

I've Committed Murder and I Think I Got Away...

(Singles are italicized, recommendations are in red.)

By the year 2000, if you did not know who Macy Gray was, you had to have been a very sheltered (and possibly amish) individual. Her smash single "I Try" played all over the radio, and her unique, raspy voice was her trademark. It's evident that she put lots of hard work into her debut album, On How Life Is, as her vocals really shine in all 11 tracks.

Personally, I had never really paid much attention to Macy Gray or her (now dwindling) career until recently for some reason. I had "I Try" stuck in my head for days and decided it was time to look into more of her music, beyond the 2 or 3 songs of hers I knew, and I'm glad I did.

1. "Why Didn't You Call Me" - Had a situation like this not happened to me around the time I heard this song for the first time (about a month ago), I would have written Gray off as being over-possessive, creepy, smothering and stalkerish in this song. In it, she expresses her frustration over not having her calls returned by someone she though she had formed a good romantic relationship with (though, in this day in age it would most likely be called "Why Didn't You Text Me".) It's a decent track, and her vocals really hold up against the funky beat.

2. "Do Something" - This is a very motivational track about how you just need to be motivated to "Do Something". It's got a great message, but it gets annoying after a while. Not really a favorite of mine.

3. "Caligula" - From the opening beats of this song (where she sings "Hush / The neighbors hear you moanin' and groanin' / And I just can't help it / 'Specially when we be bonin'") to the closing of the song, it's evident that Macy likes to get freaky. "He wanna fight and make me feel like I'm nothin'," she sings, "Never lovin' / But we're always f****n'", in reference to a guy she is head over heels for. She compares him to her favorite movie (she wants to see him again and again), her disco (he's really groovy), her 7-11 (got her open like an all-night store), and many other things. It's a weird song at first, but it really grew on me, and is one of my favorites on here. Well done, Macy.

4. "I Try" - Do I really need to review this one? We've all heard it. Recorded in 1997 (two years prior to the album's release), this is Gray's signature song.

5. "Sex-O-Matic Venus Freak" - In the most explicit track on the album, Macy explains that she is a "Sex-O-Matic Venus Freak / When I'm witchu", whatever that is. Something about it all seems very retro, very '70s. But maybe that's just me.

6. "I Can't Wait to Meetchu" - This could easily be a Church Gospel song. Gray sings about doing right so when she dies she can get to heaven. It's just an average track, probably the worst on the album.

7. "Still" - A nice, slow ballad about how Macy still loves her ex, although he was no good for her. It's a nice song, and anyone who's gone through this can relate (I know I can).

8. "I've Committed Murder" - This song documents (what I hope are simply) Gray's fantasies of killing the "Mean ol' b***h" who fires her boyfriend from the cafe he works in. They then escape to Jamaica, get married, and have no regrets. It's quite humorous.

9. "A Moment to Myself" - I love this one. Macy's voice fits it perfectly. It's a nice, light, easygoing song.

10. "The Letter" - By far THE creepiest song on here. Upon first listen, it seems like a nice, light song, if you're not paying attention to the lyrics. If you listen to the lyrics, you suddenly realize it's Macy's song about killing herself! Despite the morbidity of the lyrics, Gray's vocals really shine, and I love it.

11. "Rather Hazy" - This bonus track is another good one. I can't really explain it. It's just good. (Available on Japanese and Australian pressings of the album.)

(Wow. Can you tell I really like this album?) :P