Madonna's Music CD Review

Don't let the cowboy hat picture on the cover fool you. Madonna has not gone country, though it wouldn't surprise me. "Music" seems to pick up where her mega smash "Ray Of Light" left off. That is, if you go by the first half of the CD. Whereas "Ray" was more spiritual with a heavenly flow, "Music" is more techno-electronica based in its rhythm tracks. The clubs will eat this record up.

The possibilities for DJ mixes are endless. William Orbit returns in part for many of the songs. Also collaborating and producing is Mirwais Ahmadzai. Madonna never seems to get enough credit, or credit at all for that matter, for writing her own material. She's always had interesting ideas when it comes to her lyrics. This release is no exception. Though mostly straight forward, she's obviously got a constant groove spinning in her head.

There is a definite dimension on "Music." The songs are not as technically layered in their arrangements as some previously released tracks. The title song "Music" kicks off the CD with an insatiable groove. Funk, dance, pop, rock and R&B all mixed into one vibrant melody. I can see people dancing in the streets, bopping and singing (probably off key) in their cars now on I-95. Madonna's vocals are a bit raw, not quite as polished as in previous releases.

Don't panic. This was done intentionally. Yes, she can sing, much to the dismay of some critics. Her voice is stronger and clearer since her stint in the film "Evita," where for the first time; she worked with a vocal coach. But with "Music," she seems to be retrieving back to a grittier street sound.

The most memorable tracks that stand out are "Don't Tell Me," (which turns out be a great second single) "What If Feels Like For A Girl," (video controversy not withstanding) and "Paradise (Not For Me)". "Paradise," is the most intriguing song on the cd, musically anyway. It combines the best of both worlds, pop and electronic techno, with a dash of Madonna flash. She has definitely settled into her own groove.

For an artist to constantly change and grow musically and personally is essential for longevity. Madonna has proven many times over she's got what it takes. "Music," is another chapter in the ongoing saga of a pop icon, and it's got a great beat you can dance to.