Mariah Carey: E=MC2

Review by Stephen

Since making the comeback of a lifetime with her last record (The Emancipation of Mimi), Mariah Carey has truly shown that her image and talent can withstand the test of time. Her latest release (which opened to incredible sales, and debuted at #1) is titled "E=MC2". Apparently the title is about carrying on the success of The Emancipation....or something along those lines.

Mariah wastes zero time getting right into it, with the record opening with the T-pain graced "Migrate". Layered with a heavy beat and breathy vocals the song screams "Release me to radio!” A definite club-banger.

Next thing you know the club sound is over, and Touch My Body holds down the Track 2 position. How can such an innocent beat be filled with that many suggestive lyrics? It’s like that awkward song that comes on the radio when you happen to be in the car with your Grandmother. Although it feels a little out of place among the entire record, it’s still incredibly catchy and easy on the ears.

The next tracks spots Mariah and Damian Marley. The collaboration titled "Cruise Control" is like a trip to the tropics. The reggae influenced song is a great and unique addition to the overall sound of the album. Kudos to Mariah for stepping out of her comfort zone, and trying new sounds.

"I Stay in Love" is just one of the many ballads trying to recreate the magic that was "We Belong Together". Sadly it can never reach that level, and almost comes across as boring.

"Side Effects" exposes the abusive marriage that Mariah endured. If I were Tony, I’d be mighty embarrassed. She calls him out on all the fights and abusive actions within the home. A female empowerment song done right.

"I’m That Chick" has that 80's influence. A mellow song, it’s very catchy and perfect for those summer nights.

Another ballad tries to recreate "We Belong Together", titled "Love Story". Again these ballads fail miserably, and come across as dull.

The head-bopper named "I’ll Be Lovin’ You Long Time" suffers in the lyric department, and sounds dull. More effort could have been put into this track.

Two more ballads that once AGAIN want to recreate the sound of "We Belong Together" fail.

"O.O.C" (Out Of Control) brings back the lightness that "Touch My Body" added to the record. Although its played very safe, its still fun and enjoyable.

"For The Record" is definitely one of the best tracks on the album. Its original, it has an awesome beat and the lyrics are above par. A definite highlight.

The album begins to wind down with "Bye Bye". The first ballad on the record that didn’t bore me. It has a very relatable message, and it’s a very beautiful in its simplicity.

"I Wish You Well" ends the album with an old-school Mariah sound. Its very broken-down and simple, but ends the album on a great note.

E=MC2 may not be the best record Mariah has ever put out, but its definitely not the worst. The entire sound of the album has an easygoing vibe, and it’s a perfect disk for the car in the summertime. My only complaint is the never-ending attempts to create another "We Belong Together". Carey needs to stop trying to imitate success, and explore different sounds in order to still remain relevant. Other then that, I give E= MC2 Three and a half starts out of Five, and I recommend the album to any R&B fan.