Quality modern pop music is sometimes difficult to stumble upon due to technological advancements that deprive a song of its dignity. However, it is not something that singer-songwriter Kelly Clarkson is likely to permit with the release of her fourth studio album, “All I Ever Wanted,” this week.
Clarkson is no stranger to the twists and turns of the music industry. Her 2007 album, “My December,” was met with mixed reviews from critics and labeled “anti-commercial” simply because she refused to compromise her unique tastes in favor of more radio friendly songs. She eventually went on to co-write every song on the album, establishing her credibility as a class act in the world of trite mainstream music.
While “My December” was tinged with both acoustic and rock sounds to incorporate Clarkson’s darker lyrics, “All I Ever Wanted” takes a courageous leap in the opposite direction, delivering a variety of catchy and upbeat songs. This further establishes Clarkson’s reputation as one of pop music’s most multifaceted performers.
OneRepublic frontman, Ryan Tedder, and some of pop music’s leading producers, Max Martin and Lukasz Gottwald, assisted Clarkson in the creation of her new album, including the album’s successful single, “My Life Would Suck Without You.” Clarkson also covered the songs “Long Shot” and “I Do Not Hook Up,” which were previously recorded and unreleased by pop singer Katy Perry.
Virtually every song on the album is memorable in its own right. “If I Can’t Have You” could become a major club hit for Clarkson while the ballad “Cry” has the potential to draw in listeners of Reba McIntire with its country undertone. Other personal favorites include “Already Gone,” a ballad that sounds like it came straight from a Leona Lewis album, “Don’t Let Me Stop You,” an angst-ridden break up song that would suite Avril Lavigne’s tastes and “Whyyawannabringmedown,” a head banger that showcases Clarkson’s ability to keep a crowded arena on its feet. “Save You” is another meaningful ballad that was produced by Ryan Tedder and samples a classic Mozart style bridge. Finally, “I Want You” is by far the catchiest song on the entire album. The lyrics are somewhat cheesy, but the music brings to mind poodle skirts and waitresses on roller skates.
Fans of Kelly Clarkson will not be disappointed with her latest effort because of its diverse musical style and lyrical content. The title, “All I Ever Wanted” will appropriately allow her to venture back into the spotlight in order to shake up the vapid pop scene.