International singer Anastacia released must-have CD of 2001
Amanda M. Wilson, Entertainment Editor
Imagine combining the power and clarity of Mariah Carey's voice with the strength and soulful sound of Aretha Franklin or Gladys Knight, and you'll have a slight inkling of newcomer Anastacia's unique vocal prowess. Her musical range and ability to manipulate her voice like a fine instrument put to shame such popsters as Britney Spears, Jennifer Lopez and Christina Aguilera.
After hearing the first note sung from Anastacia's near-flawless voice in the opening track of her CD "Not That Kind," I'd stake my job that you'll realize this CD is worth more than its retail price. It is a showcase of a talent absolutely unmatched in the music industry today - with notes that flow like pure velvet from the stereo and seductively into your ears, Anastacia will win your heart and a coveted permanent spot in your stereo.
"Not That Kind" has gone gold, platinum and multi-platinum in more than a dozen nations worldwide, according to Anastacia's official Web site (www.anast acia.com). Her album has been on top 10 album charts in nearly ten countries, and the single "I'm Outta Love" was a number-one hit across Europe.
Although no one particular song on the album is better than the rest, "I'm Outta Love" comes close. This track is what club music should sound like in a perfect world; if you end up putting any songs from this CD on repeat, this one will definitely be it.
You've probably seen Janet Jackson and Missy Elliot's video for "Son of a Gun (I Betcha Think This Song is About You)." Anastacia's track "Why'd You Lie To Me" is a smoother, more musically-appealing song written along the same vein: "Why'd you lie to me/ Can't be trusted, good for nothing type of brother/ Everything you claimed to be was a lie...Messed up, it's time to leave/ So bye, bye..."
Like "I'm Outta Love," it's virtually impossible to listen to "Why'd You Lie To Me" just once and without moving to the beat. If you like these tracks, you'll also love dance numbers "Made For Lovin' You" and "Yo Trippin'."
Fear not, however, if dance or British pop music isn't your style; "Not That Kind" is also full of mellow R & B jams and piano-infused ballads. The smooth soul influence can be heard in "Black Roses" and "Same Old Story," which both seem perfectly suited for playing on your car stereo on a rainy day. If you like hearing your guitar strummed with a country twang, however, check out the sultry "Cowboys and Kisses."
If slower songs are what you prefer, "I Ask of You" is a beautiful romantic ballad that sounds more adult-contemporary than Brit-pop. "Don'tcha Wanna" could rule American radio if given the chance. This song showcases the very best of Anastacia's voice, layered ingeniously over a shuffling beat with a catchy hook and nice backup singing.
With the caliber of talent displayed on "Not That Kind," it's surprising Anastacia isn't already a household name in North America. Until her day comes, make sure to grab your own copy of "Not That Kind" and start dancing!
