In the Zone

by

Britney Spears

Edit

It's really a shame that this new album is on track to be her worst selling record to date, because it is truly the best work that she has put forward. Brit had a hand in writing most of the songs on this album, and it is a nice change to hear her belt out a tune that is close to her heart. We have all heard about the "Justin song", which is the second to the last track titled, "Everytime". Yet I haven't heard tell of the song "Shadow" that is heartwrenching and obviously about a true love lost. "Toxic" is an awesome dance song with a great beat. The two overtly sexual songs "Touch Of My Hand" and "Breathe On Me" are seductive and lulling as well as tastefully done. Pure mood music. The maturity of these two songs is apparent and relatable to women of all ages. "The Hook Up" is her first attempt at rapping and is quite catchy, a club song that you can really shake your ass to. I highly suggest this album, even if you are not a Britney fan. She has put forth a tremendous effort and it shows. Give the girl a chance, it's well worth the money.

2003's ''In The Zone'' saw pop princess Britney Spears release her most mature album to date. The bubblegum offerings are replaced with a sting of club-oriented instalments and a tougher, yet sensual sound dominating the disc. Perhaps the urge for evolving both personally and artistic, she felt the need to explore different music styles and working with current producers. I'm for once glad she did. ''In The Zone'' is a more solid effort than its predecessors. It's evident the musical quality is better than those of her previously released records, however her voice still leaves a bit to desire on ''In The Zone''. Perhaps we may see an improvement in the years to come as I'm sure Britney will still be relevant on the music scene in some way or another.

The album opens with the lead single ''Me Against The Music''. The song saw the two pop tarts Britney and Madonna in perhaps the most anticipated duet of the last couple of years. One would think these two sassy ladies would have come up with a more interesting collaboration, but sadly it wasn't so. The song does have its moments-a somewhat catchy hook and the ''In The Zone'' bit, however the collaboration still remains a disappointment to this reviewer. Surely there are stronger tracks on ''In The Zone''. It puzzles me why ''Me Against The Music'' was chosen as the first single lifted off the album, perhaps the Queen of Reinvention appearance on the offering had much to do with the decision.

Another highlight would include the current top 20 hit single in the US ''Toxic''. This erotic slice of pop perfection screams hit from a distance. Even non-Britney lovers feel force to admit ''Toxic'' is indeed catchy and one of Britney's best songs to date. I believe Cathy Dennis who penned ''Can't Get You Out Of My Head'' wrote ''Toxic'' for Miss. Spears. It's is expect to hit the top 10 within the next couple of weeks and it's already a massive hit in Europe, giving Britney top 10 positions in several countries. ''In The Zone'' consists of Britney's most interesting and perhaps best song to date, the infectious ''Breathe On Me''. Its Kylie/Madonna-eqsue quality may gain Britney liaisons of new-found admirers if this sensual festival is offered as a single release with a super sexy video accompany it and knowing Britney, she will try her best to do exact that. The moaning and her raspy voice works extremely well with the music and perhaps this is the music direction Britney should focus on in the coming years.

Others songs deservedly of a mention are ''Early Morning'' and ''Showdown''. The former is a Moby production, which is clearly evident upon hearing the song. The electronic slow-burner is enjoyable and hopefully Miss Spears and Moby may do more work in the future. ''Showdown'' has a killer beat and it's definitely worthy of a single release. The reggae-inspired boogie romp is among the stronger tracks on ''In The Zone'' and a personal favourite of mine. ''Touch Of My Hand'' is set to catch several listeners' attention with its subject- that of masturbation. Looks like Britney isn't so innocent anymore huh?

''Everytime'' seems to be Britney's rebuttal to her former ex-boyfriend Justin Timberlake. It's clearly one of her better vocal performance. Her voice isn't drowned in the production of the music and it's refreshing to hear some melody and real instruments on ''In The Zone''.

However ''In The Zone'' does have its weak moments-the silly upbeat I Got That (Boom Boom), the R. Kelly-penned ''Outrageous'', the un-inspired ''Brave New Girl'' and the annoying ''The Hook-Up''. Despite the weak material may not be entirely enjoyable at times, ''In The Zone'' has several good offerings for the listener.

It's evident that Britney isn't among the best vocalist, but neither is Madonna, Kylie or Janet. Those three ladies compensate in other areas and they are still regarded by millions to be among the top notch divas. Having said that Britney doesn't compare to any of those feisty ladies, however she still has years to prove her worth in the music department. She may surprise you in the years to come, you never know.

''In The Zone'' sees Britney attempting to find a music style that suits her, however she doesn't quite succeed just yet. The next couple of years will determinate whether or not Britney finds her niche. The overproduced sound is evident on several songs and her voice may be annoying to a few listeners, but overall ''In The Zone'' is a tolerable release.

Overall Rate: 6.5/10