The Genie in a bottle girl is back in a strong and wicked album, something she has not treaded on. With gay abandon the lass, has been in controversy and out of it. The once calm and cupid Aguilera, has matured a lot since her self-titled debut.

On this album she moves on to more explicit and adult territory. Its not bad though for I don’t think it really matters for the people who are into her won’t be too bothered, cause Aguilera is doing more of the music she really wants to. Singling out the best from 20 tracks is quite an effort, but surely a single listen could cut that up. Her songs here are filled with rock, soul, R’n’ B and some pure pop melodies.

For starters we could pick up Can’t Hold us Down a standout piece feat Lil’ Kim that extols the power of women. Her strong vocals speak about the disintegration of a relationship and the pain, which results thereafter. Songs like Fighter, Infatuation, Loving me 4 me and Underappreciated, underline the basis of a love relationship.

Aguilera has co-wrote most of the songs here and has even produced one track. Among the galaxy of stars that she has on this album include Dave Navarro, Redman and Alicia Keys while former 4 Non Blondes leader and Pink collaborator Linda Perry, fills in on four songs which displays the rocky edge for Aguilera.

Fans would tune into this album also for the sexy, sassy and sensual Dirty, that gives good competition to her co-patriots like Britney and Lopez. It a song that’s already created a storm, rebellious and really groovy. This tone of troubled self-regulation and pointed commentary on the vacuous life style of the people around her dominates the album. With this in mind, she certainly has a conscience, constantly guarding herself against the pitfalls around her.

But all taken into account, the album is passable and needs to be whipped a little.

Rating - ****

Reviewed by Verus Ferreira