Some of you probably know that I believe Kelly Clarkson to be the best pop singer around. I don’t expect or need everyone to agree with me (though you should), but I wanted to make sure I gave you the word on her latest release, Stronger.
I’ve played Kelly’s previous CD – All I Ever Wanted – hundreds of times, and it was a perfect blend of up tempo tunes, ballads, rockers… just a perfect jukebox for Kelly’s voice. I am happy to report that Stronger is just that: an even better blend of songwriting and performance that combines instantly memorable melodies with perfect sequencing between tempos, styles, and lyrical content. And because I always look for the most content I can provide to HPL patrons, we own the Deluxe Edition of this CD which contains four songs not on the standard release, including a lovely closing ballad called “The Sun Will Rise.” I can’t possibly choose a favorite song here, but my easy-replays would be “You Love Me,” “Standing in Front of You,” “I Forgive You,” “You Can’t Win,” and the title track, “What Doesn’t Kill You (Stronger).”
These are the kinds of songs that can keep a great day going or turn frustration into relief. I kid you not. So carve out some time for this CD. It’s perfect.
