So here we have it, Madonna's final album for Warner Brothers. Although this is by no means her best offering, it is still a worthwhile buy. Whilst some of the tracks are, in my opinion, outstanding, others are rather questionable. However, at the end of the day, this is pure Madonna! When Madonna is on top form, no one is comparable, and even her most ardent critics are pushed to doubt her credibility; I suppose this is why she has been at the top of her game for the past 25 years. Contrary to what I've heard on the radio and T.V., this is not a Hip-Hop album, but something altogether different from what is presently out there. It has a dancey and upbeat feel to it, and hits all the right spots. Although it is, at times, reminiscent of her previous work, Hard Candy is testament to Madonna's ever-evolving musical style. A downside to the album is that some of the tracks are over-produced, which detracts from Madonna's vocals. All in all this is excellent alum, with a worthy 9/10.
Tracks:
1) Candy Shop
Although this song drips of irony, I thought it was rather banal. Furthermore, I think it is a pretty poor choice for opening an otherwise excellent album. That said, it still has a funky beat I couldn't help moving to. 7/10
2) 4 Minutes
Although this is a worldwide smash, it is probably my least favourite song on the album. I think it's just too busy and overproduced, yet still catchy. 5/10
3) Give it 2 Me
My favourite song from Hard Candy, by a mile and a half. It has ironic lyrics, and a beat that will have you dancing around like a fool. The throbbing baseline is nothing less than addictive, and rivals Hung Up in the anthem stakes. I imagine this should be the second single. 10/10
4) Heartbeat
This is another great song with a very catchy beat. This song displays the beauty of Madonna's voice, and whilst she is no Mariah or Whitney, there is a quality to it that cannot be denied. 9/10
5) Miles Away
This song is simply wonderful. It is ethereal and relies on the guitar as its foundation. The lyrics are touching, and concern a lover who is only able to express love from miles away. This should definitely be a single, as it is testament to Madonna's originality. 9/10
6) She's Not Me
Yet another great song. This one has a similar feel to "Thief of Hearts" from Erotica. However, here we are reminded that there is only one Madonna! The song has whistles and hand-clapping during the bridge, which are simply amazing. 10/10
7) Incredible
This is the album's first slow ballad, which has a beautiful sentiment, and reminds everyone that behind the icon, image, and business-woman, there is a musician. 9/10
8) Beat Goes On
This is classic Madonna. It is funky and upbeat, with a 80s feel to it. Although I am not a fan of Kanye West or his contemporaries, I think that he adds to this great song. 9/10
Another great song. In fact this is reminiscent of the You Can Dance days with its hedonistic feel. This is certainly one to bump and grind to. 9/10
10) Spanish Lesson
Spanglish - I love it, and nobody does it better than Madonna. Madonna opens the song with, "Yo te quiero means I love you." Madonna, I do. 9/10
11) Devil Wouldn't Recognise You
Madonna purrs "Over and over you're pushing me onto the floor and I keep coming back for more" in her sexy sweet-sounding melody that is all too familiar by now. This song isn't exactly a ballad but it does have a somewhat sombre tone, as it opens. 9/10
12) Voices This is perhaps Madonna's most out-there track. She saved the most unique and personal song for the end, with lyrics like "Are you walking the dog or is that dog walking you. 9/10
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May 3rd, 2008
(May 4th, 2008)
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