Nfared Reviews:

Touch By Amerie



Though the calendar says it has been three years since Amerie’s debut CD, she
has come back as if she never left. Her sophomore album, Touch is already being
deemed one of the hottest albums of the year. Though not that far off from the
feel of her first album, Touch goes a step further by being more exhilarating
and invigorating. The power of the album is almost alarming, perhaps defiant of
many musical trends, and this defiance, is what makes the album so attractive.



What better way to come back than with the infectious “One Thing” as the
first single. This is that song that unconsciously plays in your head in the
middle of the day. Produced by Rich Harrison, it literally sounds like someone
going ballistic on a drum set. The beat, though obviously unorthodox, is soulful
and funky in a way that is astoundingly addictive. Its almost as if no one could
really sing to this; but Amerie works her voice into the track and the blend is
remarkable. She makes herself one with every element of the track, singing
strongly and intently, in perfect sync with the drums. Yet while combining her
sound with the track, she clearly owns the track and her authority over it is
very clear. Amazingly enough though, with the authority, it is also clear that
she is letting go and having fun. The ability to do both of these at once, in
one song, is a mark of a true artist.



The soulfulness of this album continues with “Like It Used To Be”. The mid
tempo track with a heavily defined bass line, displays a tamer Amerie. While
singing with the same intent, she is careful not to over do it, singing in a
much softer tone. The power is still obviously there, but she uses the skill of
restraint here to add feeling as she reflects on a past love. Amerie wants to be
gentle here, yet she takes it up at all the appropriate points. Her fluctuation
between power and restraint in this song does not seem rehearsed though. There
is a natural ability to be forceful and smooth that she possesses. Though
probably not a future single, “Like It Used To Be” is memorable because is
shows so much control. Amerie can make herself a part of the track and not make
it seem like she is pushing herself harder than she should.



The producer list is of course a who’s who including Lil John, Dre and Vidal,
Rich Harrison, and Red Spyda. While Amerie will probably not be winning any
awards for her vocal prowess, she knows how to use what she has and her skill in
doing that makes her a great singer. This project is light-hearted and fun, yet
passionate and heartfelt. Albums are often put on lists; Best Production, Best
Single, etc. If there is a list of albums that truly have something for
everyone, add Touch to that list. Final Grade, A+


__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around
http://mail.yahoo.com

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]