Review of Danity Kane's Welcome to the Dollhouse

The disc opens with spoken word by creator, Sean Combs/P. Diddy, who introduces his protégés while a music box is wound up and a pretty melody plays. The intro slides right into "Bad Girl", an uptempo dance track that is enhanced with Missy Elliott in the bridge.

The first single out of the Dollhouse is "Damaged;" the perfect choice, being as it is radio-friendly, catchy and uncomplicated with its repetitive verses. The only distraction is Diddy's emergence at the song's end. "Pretty Boy" is another fun, flirtatious song and leads into the confident sexy groove of "Strip Tease."

At under three minutes, Danity Kane delivers another upbeat tune with "Sucka For Love," and continues into a "Secret Place (Interlude)." Rick Ross takes the girls into "Ecstasy," another sensual track. "2 Of You" brings out more of the sassy spirit of the record, as does "Lights Out."

"Picture This (Interlude)" is more rhyming spoken word, this time performed by Danity Kane, while light vocals trace the background melody. The ballad of Dollhouse, "Poetry," is bogged down by being entirely too long at nearly five minutes, but is nothing compared to the disjointed sound of "Key To My Heart." The vocals often don't match up with the music, making the only saving grace being that it is two and a half minutes long.

"Flashback (Interlude)" shows off the strong vocals of the girls and flows into another appealing song, "Is Anybody Listening." Their male counterparts and Making The Band co-stars, Day 26 & solo artist Donnie Klang, are featured on "Ain't Going." Danity Kane clearly comes out the winner in this pop song, as the more experienced vocal harmonies are tight and not over the top. The song may be about longevity but, ironically, it has an abrupt ending.

Danity Kane's second album is a welcome surprise. After receiving their start in reality tv, and putting out a mostly R&B influenced first album, Welcome To The Dollhouse finds the ladies at play more towards the pop and dance scene, while still keeping it R&B. The girls pull through in their second round with a collection of radio-friendly songs, covering break-ups and hook-ups. The tracks are likeable, though at times, too repetitive in the lyrics, but the album is a great continuation to what is ultimately an exceptional vocal and fun spirited female group.