ALBUM REVIEW: WHITNEY'S COMEBACK

The fact that Whitney just released her first studio album in six years is surprising, but the fact that she's back does not fool me into thinking her new music is amazing. "I Look To You" is a good effort, but Whitney just can't produce classic music anymore. The drugs and cigarette smoking has really taken a toll on her voice, and I can't get past it. Her performance on a majority of the songs seem forced, and by the end of the song Whitney sounds winded. Her voice still has a rich tone, but its lacking the crisp and precisely controlled vocals she is known for.

As far as the music goes, I will commend Whitney on always trying in her own lane, and making music that does not conform to industry trends whole-heartedly. Her first two singles"I Didn't Know My Own Strength" and "I Look To You" sound like classic Whitney with their duality as inspirational and contemporary soul records. However, she really surprised with the rest of the album with its touches of euro-pop/dance sounds. She has one song with Akon which has got to be the worst on the album. If Whitney was trying to make a statement, collaborating with Akon is not the right thing to do because that doesn't reflect originality, just desperation to fit in (ie. Mariah Carey at times).

My favorite song from the CD has to be "Worth It." Its a flawless, laid back R&B groove. The R. Kelly-penned "Salute" had a good performance, and after listening to "Million Dollar Bill," it definitely grew on me. The song was definitely an ode back to the late 70's/early 80's R&B era. The bass line on the record is crazy. Although the production from Swizz Beats and Alicia Keys seems a bit off, and Whitney's voice seems empty, like the majority of vocal performances on the album.

Rating: (2.5/5 stars)