ARTSETC.
Alicia Keys hip, soulful, just ‘as’ she is
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Also by Nicole Dorskind:
- Addictive attributes still not 'Lost' (February 4, 2008)
- Actors take center stage in SAGs (January 29, 2008)
- Alicia Keys hip, soulful, just 'as' she is (November 20, 2007)
- Country awards forget competition (November 9, 2007)
- Jenny from the block loses quality to love on latest (October 11, 2007)
Related Stories:
- 'Unplugged' album features best of artist (December 5, 2005)
- Keys cleans up at Grammys (February 28, 2002)
- Kid Rock resurrected on 'Jesus' (October 11, 2007)
- Don't 'Cry' for Faith Hill (October 17, 2002)
- Toby Lightman goes pop! (April 13, 2004)
by Nicole Dorskind
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Finally, hip-hop and soul have combined forces, creating an
innovative spin to both established genres. The collaborative force behind the
hybrid is none other than megastar Alicia Keys, whose new album As I Am leads the act with her
incredible singing and effective instrumental ensemble. The collection
encompasses inspirational songs focusing on relationships, breakups, love and female
empowerment — themes Keys has built upon with resounding success in the past.
As I Am begins
with an instrumental introduction, fittingly called "As I Am (Intro),"
featuring smooth piano juxtaposed with a hip-hop beat, preparing listeners for
the musical experience about to come. Never losing pace with the high standards
set by the opening track, As I Am
flows throughout as a collection worth multiple playbacks.
The song "No One," while not the hit single, proves it is
safe to say the entire album is a winner. "No One" is a love song that praises
a relationship. Keys sings with deep emotion, "People search the world trying
to find what we have/ No one can get in the way of what I'm feeling."
Other top tracks include "Superwoman," which praises all
types of women, ranging from mothers to sisters to hardworking ladies. Keys'
strong voice combined with delicate piano notes creates an original and
beautiful song one could easily listen to over and over again. Similarly,
"Wreckless Love" is a memorable track that has a Mary J. Blidge-esque feel to
it. The song is sensual and alluring without ever saying the word "sex." Also
along the same vein, "Teenage Love Affair" is an upbeat song that indulges in
memories of making out in public places and going from first base to home plate
during the days of high school.
Some tracks have a gospel feel to them, such as "Prelude to
a Kiss" and "Sure Looks Good to Me." These songs weigh more on the slower side
of the collection, but still underscore Keys' powerful, expressive voice.
The album does have some clunkers, though, including "Where
Do You Go from Here," which begins with canned orchestration similar to a
horror movie or a dreadful Halloween party soundtrack. While it is possible
that this mood was intentionally orchestrated due to the song centering on the
aftermath of a breakup, it seems unlikely.
As I Am takes an
optimistic approach to addressing a wide scope of human emotions, giving
listeners the ability to enjoy the album despite whatever type of mood they are
in. Songs often consist of minimal words repeated with different notes, yet the
effect is breathtaking. While at times cliche, the album is redeemed by Keys'
vocal capacity and thoughtful lyrics.
4 out of 5 stars
Anonymous (November 20, 2007 @ 1:57am):
this album is amazing I love am is the best I give it 5/5 stars....nice review)
Anonymous (November 20, 2007 @ 11:54am):
As I Am is amzing ,but not as good as her other albums
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