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"Survivor" by Destiny's Child
I know this review may seem a bit old, but I wanted the hype to die down, and judge the album as fairly as possible. I wanted to voice my opinions on an 'album' and not a product of merchandising and expectation. This album was an important one for the feisty Texan trio, for it was the dreaded 'third' album! From experience, the artist have nothing to lose with the first album, the second album is a progression of the first, risking very little and playing it safe. The third album is where innovation and progression have to be demonstrated. You have to take a risk and show that you can take it to the next level. NSYNC showed that they can do it, but Tevin Campbell couldn't!
From listening to this album, I can confidently say that "Survivor" not only shows that Destiny's Child can survive the third album jinx, but they can flourish for many years to come! Lemme break it down for you track-by-track:
Independent Women: tight verses, and a killer catchy chorus- demonstrates the 'pop' side of DC. Also is the first track written by Beyonce- a real eye-opener. Co-production credit goes to Corey Rooney, of J-Lo fame. Damn, it's got a catchy-ass beat!
Survivor: in my opinion this has got one of the best introductions to any song released this year. Lyrically it proves a point and beyonce's slightly aggressive style really makes the track stand out. Some may criticise the 'shouty' chorus but hey, it's different and original and gives the song an 'anthem' kinda feel..musically a stand out track.
Bootylicious: Rob Fusari, who produced much of Tatyana Ali's debut album co-produced this track and has a certain 'Michael Jackson-esque' vibe to it, must be some of the dance movies in the video that bring that on! It's them pelvic thrusts, l love 'em! The Stevie Nicks sample really adds to the track and shows how a sample should be used! Michelle's vocals are impressive in her funkiness and soulfulnessÖsome slated her, but hey-she's better then the original former members in my opinion!
Nasty Girl: I love this track! The attitude is kickin', and the bitchiness is cool and a departure for the goody-goody Destiny's Child! It's a real departure for them, and like I said before, innovation is paramount in a third album project. Also the Salt 'N' Pepa style breakbeat in the middle of the song was a genius idea by Beyonce-she is showing guts by experimenting with different sounds. The bassline is aggressive and memorable.
Fancy: this is a Dwayne Wiggins track, (he of Tony, Toni, Tone fame) that is well produced and well sung, and has some lovely music. A nice swirling backing track that reminds me of some of Rodney Jerkin's work, such as 'The Girl Is Mine.'
Apple Pie A La Mode: I cringed when I saw the title, but it's a good track! mind you, I do think that this is the weakest track on the album-no real reason, it just ain't my cup of tea! A good song overshadowed by excellent ones. It was a good idea though, a song for the guys, after all the bloke-bashing on 'The Writings On The Wall.'
Sexy Daddy: The song is a solid example of a song that is experimental, I like the way the verses are sung, reminiscent of Stevie Wonder. If you're gonna emulate anyone, he's a good role model! The key is that no other all-girl group has a sound like this, and that is the foundation of their success. Another bonus was that the co-producer is an unknown (to me, anyway!) and thus Beyonce will get more credit for it!
Perfect Man: This track demonstates that Beyonce has a liking for the syncopated stop-start basslines a-la Timbaland. There's a real good vibe to the song and can be said to be an urban based track, but will no doubt be slamming in the clubs. Harmonies are tight, and the lyrics are well done. Rapture, who produced for the late Aaliyah (I think) helped produced the track.
Independent women part II: Can't really say much about this, its basically a remix of Independent Women part I! Love the bassline, which reminds me of some TV programme, can't remember which one, any suggestions, peeps?
Happy Face: I feel that this is the Destiny's Child version of adapting the garage bassline to RnB, and it damn well works! This song is well received by practically everyone I spoke to. Michelle and Kelly do a sterling job in their parts, adding their flavour to the song, which was co-produced by Rob Fusari.
Dance With Me: Special credit has to go to Beyonce in this track because she produced this song on her own, and at the tender age of 21, that is one hell of an achievement. Its got the stop-start beat again, and has a certain summery freshness to it. The verses remind me of No, No, No in that Beyonce sings with a certain pace that complements the song very well.
My Heart Still Beats: In my opinion, this song is very important to the album because it marks a chapter on the CD. A definite change in pace and vibe, we go from the happy songs about life and love, to ballads and 'deeper' songs (for the lack of a better term) is quite apparent. Also this song is essentially a solo track, showcasing the talents of Beyonce. I gotta say, the emotion in the song is awesome, and the simplicity of the track really helps- her voice and the piano make up most of the song. The lyrics are deep and meaningful, and she sings it as though she means itÖI think I'm gonna cry! No I'm not, cos I haven't finished the review yet!
Emotion: Shock horror! A song that wasn't written by Beyonce! Shock horror -it's a cover version! Fear not, this cover version of the Bee Gees classic kicks ass! Guitar has a nice bounce to it, and reminds me of that song 'More Than Words', by some guy with long hair. I'm not surprised that this is the next single, after all, it shows off the harmonies and individual voices to the max. Kelly gets the chance to start of the song, and she carries I well. I like the flow, Kelly starts off, Beyonce adds the higher notes in the second verse, then Michelle adds some gravelly-voiced soul at the end. Nice vocal arrangement, and the 'bounce' to the song makes it one of the finest cover versions of the year so far.
Brown Eyes: To me, this sounds like a ballad that could have easily be produced by someone of the calibre of Darryl Simmons, but it isn't! It's got that kinda vibe to it, and has a superb vocal performance by Beyonce. I real song from the heart, full of hope and emotion.
Dangerously In Love: When artists do a song that instantly hit the heart and the mind, you know that they are one of the 'greats'- Keith Sweat has 'Make It Last Forever', New Edition have 'Can You Stand The Rain', K-Ci and JoJo have 'All My Life', and so on. This, in my opinion is a true classic. In my opinion this is one the best ballads I have heard. The rumbling bassline, the Timbaland-esque beat, the haunting backing vocals, and the deep, meaningful, heartfelt lyrics make this the standout track on the album. This song is chocked full of emotion and feeling. Beyonce proves on this track alone that she is quite possibly the top female vocalist out there. One of the key things that makes this song a success is Michelle's backing vocals, they are awesome. They balance Beyonce's vocals in a way never seen in Destiny's Child up until this album. Not only that, production and writing credit goes to her as well. Who said modern groups don't write their own stuff???
The Story Of Beauty: As experimental tracks go, this is on hell of an achievement, a risquÈ topic such as child abuse is not addressed in the form of a ballad as one would expect, but rather a hard-hitting mid-tempo song. Its works really well. The song is literally a song set to music, and makes the topic of the song more deep. The harpsichord and other instruments really add to the song, and give it a unique sound. Harmonies on this track are quite possibly only second to that of 'Dangerously In Love' and the gospel medley
Gospel Medley: All three girls helped write this medley, which was produced by, Rob Fusari, and I gotta be honest, never really heard gospel music until this. The acappella harmonies really stand out and is music to the ears! Play this song loud and feel the power in the voices!
Outro (DC-3) Thank You: This isn't really a song as such, more of a message and thank-you session. Reminds me of TLC for some reason. Must be all them funny electronic noises in the background.
In conclusion, this is one of the contenders for album of the year, decade, whatever! Beyonce proved that she is a top producer as well as an awesome singer. Destiny's Child are survivors, they're innovators, and they'll be with us for many years to come, we hope! Hope you liked the review, I know there wasn't many negative comments, but they're very little wrong with the album, heck you even get the 'Survivor' video with it!
I know this review may seem a bit old, but I wanted the hype to die down, and judge the album as fairly as possible. I wanted to voice my opinions on an 'album' and not a product of merchandising and expectation. This album was an important one for the feisty Texan trio, for it was the dreaded 'third' album! From experience, the artist have nothing to lose with the first album, the second album is a progression of the first, risking very little and playing it safe. The third album is where innovation and progression have to be demonstrated. You have to take a risk and show that you can take it to the next level. NSYNC showed that they can do it, but Tevin Campbell couldn't!
From listening to this album, I can confidently say that "Survivor" not only shows that Destiny's Child can survive the third album jinx, but they can flourish for many years to come! Lemme break it down for you track-by-track:
Independent Women: tight verses, and a killer catchy chorus- demonstrates the 'pop' side of DC. Also is the first track written by Beyonce- a real eye-opener. Co-production credit goes to Corey Rooney, of J-Lo fame. Damn, it's got a catchy-ass beat!
Survivor: in my opinion this has got one of the best introductions to any song released this year. Lyrically it proves a point and beyonce's slightly aggressive style really makes the track stand out. Some may criticise the 'shouty' chorus but hey, it's different and original and gives the song an 'anthem' kinda feel..musically a stand out track.
Bootylicious: Rob Fusari, who produced much of Tatyana Ali's debut album co-produced this track and has a certain 'Michael Jackson-esque' vibe to it, must be some of the dance movies in the video that bring that on! It's them pelvic thrusts, l love 'em! The Stevie Nicks sample really adds to the track and shows how a sample should be used! Michelle's vocals are impressive in her funkiness and soulfulnessÖsome slated her, but hey-she's better then the original former members in my opinion!
Nasty Girl: I love this track! The attitude is kickin', and the bitchiness is cool and a departure for the goody-goody Destiny's Child! It's a real departure for them, and like I said before, innovation is paramount in a third album project. Also the Salt 'N' Pepa style breakbeat in the middle of the song was a genius idea by Beyonce-she is showing guts by experimenting with different sounds. The bassline is aggressive and memorable.
Fancy: this is a Dwayne Wiggins track, (he of Tony, Toni, Tone fame) that is well produced and well sung, and has some lovely music. A nice swirling backing track that reminds me of some of Rodney Jerkin's work, such as 'The Girl Is Mine.'
Apple Pie A La Mode: I cringed when I saw the title, but it's a good track! mind you, I do think that this is the weakest track on the album-no real reason, it just ain't my cup of tea! A good song overshadowed by excellent ones. It was a good idea though, a song for the guys, after all the bloke-bashing on 'The Writings On The Wall.'
Sexy Daddy: The song is a solid example of a song that is experimental, I like the way the verses are sung, reminiscent of Stevie Wonder. If you're gonna emulate anyone, he's a good role model! The key is that no other all-girl group has a sound like this, and that is the foundation of their success. Another bonus was that the co-producer is an unknown (to me, anyway!) and thus Beyonce will get more credit for it!
Perfect Man: This track demonstates that Beyonce has a liking for the syncopated stop-start basslines a-la Timbaland. There's a real good vibe to the song and can be said to be an urban based track, but will no doubt be slamming in the clubs. Harmonies are tight, and the lyrics are well done. Rapture, who produced for the late Aaliyah (I think) helped produced the track.
Independent women part II: Can't really say much about this, its basically a remix of Independent Women part I! Love the bassline, which reminds me of some TV programme, can't remember which one, any suggestions, peeps?
Happy Face: I feel that this is the Destiny's Child version of adapting the garage bassline to RnB, and it damn well works! This song is well received by practically everyone I spoke to. Michelle and Kelly do a sterling job in their parts, adding their flavour to the song, which was co-produced by Rob Fusari.
Dance With Me: Special credit has to go to Beyonce in this track because she produced this song on her own, and at the tender age of 21, that is one hell of an achievement. Its got the stop-start beat again, and has a certain summery freshness to it. The verses remind me of No, No, No in that Beyonce sings with a certain pace that complements the song very well.
My Heart Still Beats: In my opinion, this song is very important to the album because it marks a chapter on the CD. A definite change in pace and vibe, we go from the happy songs about life and love, to ballads and 'deeper' songs (for the lack of a better term) is quite apparent. Also this song is essentially a solo track, showcasing the talents of Beyonce. I gotta say, the emotion in the song is awesome, and the simplicity of the track really helps- her voice and the piano make up most of the song. The lyrics are deep and meaningful, and she sings it as though she means itÖI think I'm gonna cry! No I'm not, cos I haven't finished the review yet!
Emotion: Shock horror! A song that wasn't written by Beyonce! Shock horror -it's a cover version! Fear not, this cover version of the Bee Gees classic kicks ass! Guitar has a nice bounce to it, and reminds me of that song 'More Than Words', by some guy with long hair. I'm not surprised that this is the next single, after all, it shows off the harmonies and individual voices to the max. Kelly gets the chance to start of the song, and she carries I well. I like the flow, Kelly starts off, Beyonce adds the higher notes in the second verse, then Michelle adds some gravelly-voiced soul at the end. Nice vocal arrangement, and the 'bounce' to the song makes it one of the finest cover versions of the year so far.
Brown Eyes: To me, this sounds like a ballad that could have easily be produced by someone of the calibre of Darryl Simmons, but it isn't! It's got that kinda vibe to it, and has a superb vocal performance by Beyonce. I real song from the heart, full of hope and emotion.
Dangerously In Love: When artists do a song that instantly hit the heart and the mind, you know that they are one of the 'greats'- Keith Sweat has 'Make It Last Forever', New Edition have 'Can You Stand The Rain', K-Ci and JoJo have 'All My Life', and so on. This, in my opinion is a true classic. In my opinion this is one the best ballads I have heard. The rumbling bassline, the Timbaland-esque beat, the haunting backing vocals, and the deep, meaningful, heartfelt lyrics make this the standout track on the album. This song is chocked full of emotion and feeling. Beyonce proves on this track alone that she is quite possibly the top female vocalist out there. One of the key things that makes this song a success is Michelle's backing vocals, they are awesome. They balance Beyonce's vocals in a way never seen in Destiny's Child up until this album. Not only that, production and writing credit goes to her as well. Who said modern groups don't write their own stuff???
The Story Of Beauty: As experimental tracks go, this is on hell of an achievement, a risquÈ topic such as child abuse is not addressed in the form of a ballad as one would expect, but rather a hard-hitting mid-tempo song. Its works really well. The song is literally a song set to music, and makes the topic of the song more deep. The harpsichord and other instruments really add to the song, and give it a unique sound. Harmonies on this track are quite possibly only second to that of 'Dangerously In Love' and the gospel medley
Gospel Medley: All three girls helped write this medley, which was produced by, Rob Fusari, and I gotta be honest, never really heard gospel music until this. The acappella harmonies really stand out and is music to the ears! Play this song loud and feel the power in the voices!
Outro (DC-3) Thank You: This isn't really a song as such, more of a message and thank-you session. Reminds me of TLC for some reason. Must be all them funny electronic noises in the background.
In conclusion, this is one of the contenders for album of the year, decade, whatever! Beyonce proved that she is a top producer as well as an awesome singer. Destiny's Child are survivors, they're innovators, and they'll be with us for many years to come, we hope! Hope you liked the review, I know there wasn't many negative comments, but they're very little wrong with the album, heck you even get the 'Survivor' video with it!
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"Survivor" by Destiny's Child
I know this review may seem a bit old, but I wanted the hype to die down, and judge the album as fairly as possible. I wanted to voice my opinions on an 'album' and not a product of merchandising and expectation. This album was an important one for the feisty Texan trio, for it was the dreaded 'third' album! From experience, the artist have nothing to lose with the first album, the second album is a progression of the first, risking very little and playing it safe. The third album is where innovation and progression have to be demonstrated. You have to take a risk and show that you can take it to the next level. NSYNC showed that they can do it, but Tevin Campbell couldn't!
From listening to this album, I can confidently say that "Survivor" not only shows that Destiny's Child can survive the third album jinx, but they can flourish for many years to come! Lemme break it down for you track-by-track:
Independent Women: tight verses, and a killer catchy chorus- demonstrates the 'pop' side of DC. Also is the first track written by Beyonce- a real eye-opener. Co-production credit goes to Corey Rooney, of J-Lo fame. Damn, it's got a catchy-ass beat!
Survivor: in my opinion this has got one of the best introductions to any song released this year. Lyrically it proves a point and beyonce's slightly aggressive style really makes the track stand out. Some may criticise the 'shouty' chorus but hey, it's different and original and gives the song an 'anthem' kinda feel..musically a stand out track.
Bootylicious: Rob Fusari, who produced much of Tatyana Ali's debut album co-produced this track and has a certain 'Michael Jackson-esque' vibe to it, must be some of the dance movies in the video that bring that on! It's them pelvic thrusts, l love 'em! The Stevie Nicks sample really adds to the track and shows how a sample should be used! Michelle's vocals are impressive in her funkiness and soulfulnessÖsome slated her, but hey-she's better then the original former members in my opinion!
Nasty Girl: I love this track! The attitude is kickin', and the bitchiness is cool and a departure for the goody-goody Destiny's Child! It's a real departure for them, and like I said before, innovation is paramount in a third album project. Also the Salt 'N' Pepa style breakbeat in the middle of the song was a genius idea by Beyonce-she is showing guts by experimenting with different sounds. The bassline is aggressive and memorable.
Fancy: this is a Dwayne Wiggins track, (he of Tony, Toni, Tone fame) that is well produced and well sung, and has some lovely music. A nice swirling backing track that reminds me of some of Rodney Jerkin's work, such as 'The Girl Is Mine.'
Apple Pie A La Mode: I cringed when I saw the title, but it's a good track! mind you, I do think that this is the weakest track on the album-no real reason, it just ain't my cup of tea! A good song overshadowed by excellent ones. It was a good idea though, a song for the guys, after all the bloke-bashing on 'The Writings On The Wall.'
Sexy Daddy: The song is a solid example of a song that is experimental, I like the way the verses are sung, reminiscent of Stevie Wonder. If you're gonna emulate anyone, he's a good role model! The key is that no other all-girl group has a sound like this, and that is the foundation of their success. Another bonus was that the co-producer is an unknown (to me, anyway!) and thus Beyonce will get more credit for it!
Perfect Man: This track demonstates that Beyonce has a liking for the syncopated stop-start basslines a-la Timbaland. There's a real good vibe to the song and can be said to be an urban based track, but will no doubt be slamming in the clubs. Harmonies are tight, and the lyrics are well done. Rapture, who produced for the late Aaliyah (I think) helped produced the track.
Independent women part II: Can't really say much about this, its basically a remix of Independent Women part I! Love the bassline, which reminds me of some TV programme, can't remember which one, any suggestions, peeps?
Happy Face: I feel that this is the Destiny's Child version of adapting the garage bassline to RnB, and it damn well works! This song is well received by practically everyone I spoke to. Michelle and Kelly do a sterling job in their parts, adding their flavour to the song, which was co-produced by Rob Fusari.
Dance With Me: Special credit has to go to Beyonce in this track because she produced this song on her own, and at the tender age of 21, that is one hell of an achievement. Its got the stop-start beat again, and has a certain summery freshness to it. The verses remind me of No, No, No in that Beyonce sings with a certain pace that complements the song very well.
My Heart Still Beats: In my opinion, this song is very important to the album because it marks a chapter on the CD. A definite change in pace and vibe, we go from the happy songs about life and love, to ballads and 'deeper' songs (for the lack of a better term) is quite apparent. Also this song is essentially a solo track, showcasing the talents of Beyonce. I gotta say, the emotion in the song is awesome, and the simplicity of the track really helps- her voice and the piano make up most of the song. The lyrics are deep and meaningful, and she sings it as though she means itÖI think I'm gonna cry! No I'm not, cos I haven't finished the review yet!
Emotion: Shock horror! A song that wasn't written by Beyonce! Shock horror -it's a cover version! Fear not, this cover version of the Bee Gees classic kicks ass! Guitar has a nice bounce to it, and reminds me of that song 'More Than Words', by some guy with long hair. I'm not surprised that this is the next single, after all, it shows off the harmonies and individual voices to the max. Kelly gets the chance to start of the song, and she carries I well. I like the flow, Kelly starts off, Beyonce adds the higher notes in the second verse, then Michelle adds some gravelly-voiced soul at the end. Nice vocal arrangement, and the 'bounce' to the song makes it one of the finest cover versions of the year so far.
Brown Eyes: To me, this sounds like a ballad that could have easily be produced by someone of the calibre of Darryl Simmons, but it isn't! It's got that kinda vibe to it, and has a superb vocal performance by Beyonce. I real song from the heart, full of hope and emotion.
Dangerously In Love: When artists do a song that instantly hit the heart and the mind, you know that they are one of the 'greats'- Keith Sweat has 'Make It Last Forever', New Edition have 'Can You Stand The Rain', K-Ci and JoJo have 'All My Life', and so on. This, in my opinion is a true classic. In my opinion this is one the best ballads I have heard. The rumbling bassline, the Timbaland-esque beat, the haunting backing vocals, and the deep, meaningful, heartfelt lyrics make this the standout track on the album. This song is chocked full of emotion and feeling. Beyonce proves on this track alone that she is quite possibly the top female vocalist out there. One of the key things that makes this song a success is Michelle's backing vocals, they are awesome. They balance Beyonce's vocals in a way never seen in Destiny's Child up until this album. Not only that, production and writing credit goes to her as well. Who said modern groups don't write their own stuff???
The Story Of Beauty: As experimental tracks go, this is on hell of an achievement, a risquÈ topic such as child abuse is not addressed in the form of a ballad as one would expect, but rather a hard-hitting mid-tempo song. Its works really well. The song is literally a song set to music, and makes the topic of the song more deep. The harpsichord and other instruments really add to the song, and give it a unique sound. Harmonies on this track are quite possibly only second to that of 'Dangerously In Love' and the gospel medley
Gospel Medley: All three girls helped write this medley, which was produced by, Rob Fusari, and I gotta be honest, never really heard gospel music until this. The acappella harmonies really stand out and is music to the ears! Play this song loud and feel the power in the voices!
Outro (DC-3) Thank You: This isn't really a song as such, more of a message and thank-you session. Reminds me of TLC for some reason. Must be all them funny electronic noises in the background.
In conclusion, this is one of the contenders for album of the year, decade, whatever! Beyonce proved that she is a top producer as well as an awesome singer. Destiny's Child are survivors, they're innovators, and they'll be with us for many years to come, we hope! Hope you liked the review, I know there wasn't many negative comments, but they're very little wrong with the album, heck you even get the 'Survivor' video with it!
I know this review may seem a bit old, but I wanted the hype to die down, and judge the album as fairly as possible. I wanted to voice my opinions on an 'album' and not a product of merchandising and expectation. This album was an important one for the feisty Texan trio, for it was the dreaded 'third' album! From experience, the artist have nothing to lose with the first album, the second album is a progression of the first, risking very little and playing it safe. The third album is where innovation and progression have to be demonstrated. You have to take a risk and show that you can take it to the next level. NSYNC showed that they can do it, but Tevin Campbell couldn't!
From listening to this album, I can confidently say that "Survivor" not only shows that Destiny's Child can survive the third album jinx, but they can flourish for many years to come! Lemme break it down for you track-by-track:
Independent Women: tight verses, and a killer catchy chorus- demonstrates the 'pop' side of DC. Also is the first track written by Beyonce- a real eye-opener. Co-production credit goes to Corey Rooney, of J-Lo fame. Damn, it's got a catchy-ass beat!
Survivor: in my opinion this has got one of the best introductions to any song released this year. Lyrically it proves a point and beyonce's slightly aggressive style really makes the track stand out. Some may criticise the 'shouty' chorus but hey, it's different and original and gives the song an 'anthem' kinda feel..musically a stand out track.
Bootylicious: Rob Fusari, who produced much of Tatyana Ali's debut album co-produced this track and has a certain 'Michael Jackson-esque' vibe to it, must be some of the dance movies in the video that bring that on! It's them pelvic thrusts, l love 'em! The Stevie Nicks sample really adds to the track and shows how a sample should be used! Michelle's vocals are impressive in her funkiness and soulfulnessÖsome slated her, but hey-she's better then the original former members in my opinion!
Nasty Girl: I love this track! The attitude is kickin', and the bitchiness is cool and a departure for the goody-goody Destiny's Child! It's a real departure for them, and like I said before, innovation is paramount in a third album project. Also the Salt 'N' Pepa style breakbeat in the middle of the song was a genius idea by Beyonce-she is showing guts by experimenting with different sounds. The bassline is aggressive and memorable.
Fancy: this is a Dwayne Wiggins track, (he of Tony, Toni, Tone fame) that is well produced and well sung, and has some lovely music. A nice swirling backing track that reminds me of some of Rodney Jerkin's work, such as 'The Girl Is Mine.'
Apple Pie A La Mode: I cringed when I saw the title, but it's a good track! mind you, I do think that this is the weakest track on the album-no real reason, it just ain't my cup of tea! A good song overshadowed by excellent ones. It was a good idea though, a song for the guys, after all the bloke-bashing on 'The Writings On The Wall.'
Sexy Daddy: The song is a solid example of a song that is experimental, I like the way the verses are sung, reminiscent of Stevie Wonder. If you're gonna emulate anyone, he's a good role model! The key is that no other all-girl group has a sound like this, and that is the foundation of their success. Another bonus was that the co-producer is an unknown (to me, anyway!) and thus Beyonce will get more credit for it!
Perfect Man: This track demonstates that Beyonce has a liking for the syncopated stop-start basslines a-la Timbaland. There's a real good vibe to the song and can be said to be an urban based track, but will no doubt be slamming in the clubs. Harmonies are tight, and the lyrics are well done. Rapture, who produced for the late Aaliyah (I think) helped produced the track.
Independent women part II: Can't really say much about this, its basically a remix of Independent Women part I! Love the bassline, which reminds me of some TV programme, can't remember which one, any suggestions, peeps?
Happy Face: I feel that this is the Destiny's Child version of adapting the garage bassline to RnB, and it damn well works! This song is well received by practically everyone I spoke to. Michelle and Kelly do a sterling job in their parts, adding their flavour to the song, which was co-produced by Rob Fusari.
Dance With Me: Special credit has to go to Beyonce in this track because she produced this song on her own, and at the tender age of 21, that is one hell of an achievement. Its got the stop-start beat again, and has a certain summery freshness to it. The verses remind me of No, No, No in that Beyonce sings with a certain pace that complements the song very well.
My Heart Still Beats: In my opinion, this song is very important to the album because it marks a chapter on the CD. A definite change in pace and vibe, we go from the happy songs about life and love, to ballads and 'deeper' songs (for the lack of a better term) is quite apparent. Also this song is essentially a solo track, showcasing the talents of Beyonce. I gotta say, the emotion in the song is awesome, and the simplicity of the track really helps- her voice and the piano make up most of the song. The lyrics are deep and meaningful, and she sings it as though she means itÖI think I'm gonna cry! No I'm not, cos I haven't finished the review yet!
Emotion: Shock horror! A song that wasn't written by Beyonce! Shock horror -it's a cover version! Fear not, this cover version of the Bee Gees classic kicks ass! Guitar has a nice bounce to it, and reminds me of that song 'More Than Words', by some guy with long hair. I'm not surprised that this is the next single, after all, it shows off the harmonies and individual voices to the max. Kelly gets the chance to start of the song, and she carries I well. I like the flow, Kelly starts off, Beyonce adds the higher notes in the second verse, then Michelle adds some gravelly-voiced soul at the end. Nice vocal arrangement, and the 'bounce' to the song makes it one of the finest cover versions of the year so far.
Brown Eyes: To me, this sounds like a ballad that could have easily be produced by someone of the calibre of Darryl Simmons, but it isn't! It's got that kinda vibe to it, and has a superb vocal performance by Beyonce. I real song from the heart, full of hope and emotion.
Dangerously In Love: When artists do a song that instantly hit the heart and the mind, you know that they are one of the 'greats'- Keith Sweat has 'Make It Last Forever', New Edition have 'Can You Stand The Rain', K-Ci and JoJo have 'All My Life', and so on. This, in my opinion is a true classic. In my opinion this is one the best ballads I have heard. The rumbling bassline, the Timbaland-esque beat, the haunting backing vocals, and the deep, meaningful, heartfelt lyrics make this the standout track on the album. This song is chocked full of emotion and feeling. Beyonce proves on this track alone that she is quite possibly the top female vocalist out there. One of the key things that makes this song a success is Michelle's backing vocals, they are awesome. They balance Beyonce's vocals in a way never seen in Destiny's Child up until this album. Not only that, production and writing credit goes to her as well. Who said modern groups don't write their own stuff???
The Story Of Beauty: As experimental tracks go, this is on hell of an achievement, a risquÈ topic such as child abuse is not addressed in the form of a ballad as one would expect, but rather a hard-hitting mid-tempo song. Its works really well. The song is literally a song set to music, and makes the topic of the song more deep. The harpsichord and other instruments really add to the song, and give it a unique sound. Harmonies on this track are quite possibly only second to that of 'Dangerously In Love' and the gospel medley
Gospel Medley: All three girls helped write this medley, which was produced by, Rob Fusari, and I gotta be honest, never really heard gospel music until this. The acappella harmonies really stand out and is music to the ears! Play this song loud and feel the power in the voices!
Outro (DC-3) Thank You: This isn't really a song as such, more of a message and thank-you session. Reminds me of TLC for some reason. Must be all them funny electronic noises in the background.
In conclusion, this is one of the contenders for album of the year, decade, whatever! Beyonce proved that she is a top producer as well as an awesome singer. Destiny's Child are survivors, they're innovators, and they'll be with us for many years to come, we hope! Hope you liked the review, I know there wasn't many negative comments, but they're very little wrong with the album, heck you even get the 'Survivor' video with it!