It’s Britney babes!

Whether it was because she did not have access to a full band, or because she intentionally wanted every song in her new album to be club worthy, Britney’s new album, Blackout, creates the illusion of being in a swank European lounge getting down and dirty with just about everyone.

That’s not to say the album is not good. No, some songs will be top 40, the album will sell many copies and the singer will profit. Like the first single from Blackout, "Gimme More," the CD has 12 tracks infused with electronica, Timbaland-style, beats and sounds that are currently popular. With "Piece of Me" Britney seems to be talking to the tabloids expressing how she has been, "Miss American dream since I was 17…they still gonna put pictures of my derriere in the magazines." The song is catchy and apparently personal, but the catchiness pretty much dies down after five tracks with technological sounds continuing.

Not only that, it seems like the CD reflects the state of the singer nowadays. It is rebellious, fast–paced and sexual. Almost every song has a reference to flirting, partying, getting naked and getting it on, "What I gotta do to get you to want my body?” There is one song, though, that could remind audiences of the sweet "I’m Not a Girl, Not Yet a Woman" Britney. "Heaven on Earth" has an 80’s flare and could very well be the next single of the album. It’s lyrics saying, "Fell in love with you and everything that you are. Don’t know what I’d do if I ever loose you."

Of course, the typical ‘over you’ song is also included. As if she is finding closure the mother of two, and ex of Kevin Federline, sings, "I was so committed, my life was so restricted for you… Why should I be sad? It’s time for me to move along." Whether it is a song about finding a new lover or forgetting the bad times, Britney’s input in the album is palpable. That’s the thing about Britney Spears, though.

She has a good voice and an ability to make good popular music, even under the influence of whatever she may be. As an executive producer of Blackout she did a decent job creating tunes that will satisfy her loyal pop fans. Even if there is no empowering message throughout the album the main goal is achieved: create a marketable product. Just as she says in one of her songs she’s a, "living legend, you can look but not touch."

With this alum she may not have had the greatest comeback but she can prove she can still do what she’s always done, sell music. Unfortunately with more Rihanna’s and Miley Cyrus’s growing to become pop queens, Britney will have a hard time retaking her past reign. With more shocking stories and child custody battles her career undoubtedly falters. If she had just divorced the K-Fed and obtained a normal custody and settlement agreement this album may have been received with more excitement.

Here’s to hoping the Louisiana native can put her personal life in order and get back to making hits like "I’m a Slave for You." In the meantime, Blackout is now on sale and worth a listen. If you’d like to check the CD for free, e-mail [email protected] with all your contact information by November 25. A random winner will be selected from all entries.

Label: Jive Records
Genre: Dance, Pop
Release Date: October 31, 2007

Overall: [rating:3.0]