This Album Shows that Stephanie is a "SUPERSTAR!"
Posted May 07, 2009
By LampaFan,
Stephanie Smith first blasted onto the screen in the summer of 2007 with her digital single "Superstar" which did well at radio and gaining her a top 5 hit. Unfortunately, the album was pushed back and pushed back and pushed back and was FINALLY released over a year and a half later this last December. Well I'll tell ya, it was worth the wait!
The album opends up with the vivacious rock track "Beauty". The song's anthem about inner beauty may be a rock track (i.e. BarlowGirl, Avril Lavigne), but the song borrows a light pop track that fits well with this great song. "Superstar" is a little choppy and sometimes the music doesn't feel quite right, but when the song enters into the funky, danceable bridge, you just can't help but smile.
The album's effervescent title track is one of my absolute favorites. I find myself singing it all the time and it's upbeat pop tune makes me happy when I feel down. Probably the strongest track on the album, "Renew Me" is a danceable worship song that shows off Stephanie's great range and killer vocals. Amazing song. Unfortunately it's followed by the somewhat dry "You Alone", which leaves me feeling bored and wanting more.
The abstract "Waitin On You" has a strange string arrangement and the song itself feels like it's trying to be a standout, but it falls on its sword and fails to wow me. The Avril Lavigne's "Sk8er Boi"-esque "Over It" is a punk rock track that is about getting over a breakup. The gutsy, dark "In My Eyes" is a huge hit and a great addition to the album. The latter and the ballad "What If I Made A Mistake" both add depth to the album and are phenomenal tracks.
The bouncy, programmed "Love Out Loud" (co-penned by Britt Nicole) is a fun pop track that features layered-background vocals and a catchy chorus and hook. The album's closer "First Words" is a beautiful ballad that deliveres a cushioned ending to the album.
Overall, Stephanie's debut is a great gem in the punk pop/rock world and I can't wait for her to put out more music. View All Music And Book Reviews By LampaFan | View LampaFan's Profile
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