Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
By Victoria Borkowski
The “Hips Don’t Lie” singer’s new album may be entitled Shakira, but do not expect to hear the same signature Latin sound we have come to expect from her. The singer’s breathy, exotic vocals mixed with fresh rock, techno and reggae beats serve up a Shakira no one saw coming. After four years of work on tour and in the studio, Shak is back.
Shakira’s first track, “Dale (La La La),” opens the album with a Brazilian-esque, ethnic dance track that even includes an upbeat techno beat as the anchor for the loud, chanted chorus.
You may recall “Can’t Remember to Forget You” as Shakira’s first single from the brand new album. The fact that it features Rihanna with a reggae and rock accompaniment makes it a perfect “island punk” hit.
“Empire” was Shakira’s second single and instant hit off the new album. A soft piano echoes behind the intensifying rock ballad from the very beginning and meets with strings in the chorus, making the entire song seem like it belongs in a movie soundtrack. Shakira’s vocals do not disappoint either, as she shows off her range well with a very personal, sensitive tone.
The first time I heard “You Don’t Care about Me” I was immediately reminded of the song “Cosy in the Rocket” by Psapp (also known as the “Grey’s Anatomy” theme song). The track features pretty powerful lyrics as well as a unique, vintage sounding mix of percussion instruments.
“Cut me Deep” adds to the previous song’s bitter, lamenting storyline, but do not shy away if you are looking for something more upbeat; this song is the ultimate rock ‘n’ reggae track out there right now. It even features a trumpet in its grand finale, giving it an urban sound.
Here is where the album’s energetic yet emotionally epic tracks transform into more personal, happier songs about love, and specifically Shakira’s new relationship with her boyfriend Gerard Pique.
“Medicine,” featuring Blake Shelton, leads the transformation. Naturally the song has a country twang, which is a musical landscape Shakira has hardly ever visited before.
Shakira expresses her love for the then 23-year-old Gerard in “23.” Her lyrics are personal to say the least, and she happily scats throughout the chorus, almost as if to remind listeners what it feels like to fall in love for the first time. What is even more adorable is her son Milan’s laugh featured at the end of the track.
Shakira’s newest album is well worth the listen. In fact, take it home with you once finals come to an end. Roll down the windows in your car, sit back on the beach or grab a friend to dance. This album could possibly be the soundtrack to your long-awaited summer of 2014.
