Mariah Carey's most recent album seems to have popped up with relatively little fanfare for the publicity-loving diva. Granted she makes up for any lack of exposure by appearing scantily clad and in triplicate on the cover, it's a far cry from the hoo-ha that accompanied the release of her great comeback record The Emancipation of Mimi in 2005.
Unfortunately, as with the follow-up E=MC?, Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel rides on the coattails of that success. It's an album full of pseudo hip hop and the too-clever lyrics Carey's been writing since Daydream.
But these flaws alone do not a bad album make. The first problem is Carey has unique talent: she has one of the widest vocal ranges ever, and it's almost like she's given up on her incredible voice. But the bigger deal is that it's all the same - nothing stands out. First single Obsessed, a rumoured dig at rapper Eminem, might stick in your head, but only after several listens. The Impossible is a sweet dedication to hubby Nick Cannon. And Up out My Face (The Reprise) is a funky, school marching band snippet of streetwise genius.
But so many of the songs just blend into one. If you liked Carey before she was Mimi, this disc will just upset you. But if you like soft-core hip hop, give it a shot.