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Written by Jeanette Nguyen
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Monday, 09 April 2007 |
Gwen Stefani
The Sweet Escape
Interscope Records
B+
 Gwen Stefani’s second solo effort The Sweet Escape features plenty of hip-hop influences riding alongside pop sensibilities. Approximately half the album is infused with club thumping beats courtesy of acclaimed urban producers Swizz Beatz and The Neptunes. Pretty boy Pharrell Williams also contributes vocals on “Yummy,” a sexilicious number about attraction and pastries. A definite blooper is “Breakin’ Up,” which is obvious filler. The lyrics metaphorically compare a rocky relationship to a weak cell phone connection, and are overloaded with cheesy chants disguised under heavy production. Stefani’s strength lies in her vocals, yet a common complaint is she substantially spits more rhymes than needed. Although singles “Wind It Up” and “The Sweet Escape” are ridiculously catchy, Stefani can easily be mistaken for MySpace whore and wannabe rockstar Tila Tequila in “Don’t Get It Twisted.” Talk about a letdown. | | | Highlights include next expected radio release “Orange County Girl,” which is very up tempo and delightful. Ballads “Early Winter” and “4 In the Morning” showcases Stefani’s smooth croon and more emotional side. The lyrics reach great depth and are somewhat depressing, but are very well-written and polished. Closing song “Wonderful Life” gives off a retro flair and is a great way to end the album. It is positive, sassy and leaves the listener with a smiling heart.
Overall, this disc is entertaining and lively. Aside from a few unfortunate tracks, the good ones make it worthwhile. The Sweet Escape possesses undeniable cross-over appeal and is sure to be one of this year’s biggest pop hits.
GwenStefani.com | | | |
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