What? Shakira? Surely this must be a joke. Come on, where are the blistering solos, head crushing riffs, throat-shredding vocals, and mosh pit insanity? There is none of that here. There certainly must have been some sort of mix up in the shipping department. Shakira was surely meant to be Shadows Fall, right?
In all honesty, no. You read the title right, I did indeed acquire a copy of Shakira's latest release with intentions of reviewing it. I will admit it is odd for this metal fan to be taking a side trip into the land of pop. Now, you may think this is a blow to my metal cred. You may be right. However, I would counter that the music fan should be able to recognize and appreciate talent across the board, I am sure the majority of you agree. On top of that, exploring other styles add to the breadth of one's experience and may prove useful as you listen to music in other areas. It is definitely something to consider. On the other hand, its Shakira! What's not to like?
Shakira is a fascinating artist. Her career began in her native Colombia at the age of 13, where she recorded albums and starred in a Spanish soap opera. This means she has nearly 20 years of experience performing and recording as she nears her 33rd birthday. In addition to her early start, she has become quite the worldwide sensation, recording albums in both Spanish and English. Throughout her career she has had a very hands on approach to her work. She co-writes much of her music and does not seem to have any desire to cater to the whims of the mainstream. Sure, she falls within the confines of the mainstream in her overall style, but when you drill down you find an artist who plays by her own rules and is as unconventional as they come.
She-Wolf sees Shakira making a rather drastic change in her sound. It still sounds distinctly "Shakira" but there is no confusing this with Oral Fixation Vol 2. (yes, I have that one too). Where her previous albums had a distinct pop-rock influence, this album sees her targeting her music for the dance floor. To that end, she has teamed with the likes of The Neptunes and Wyclef Jean (whom she also worked with on "Hips Don't Lie") to give her music that necessary hot beat punch up.
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Article comments
1 - Jordan Richardson
Good for you, Chris. Nice to see people stretching outside of their comfort zones.
2 - She Wolf
Chris, thank you for reviewing Shakira's CD. In addition to being one of a kind musically, she is a fascinating person. What other "pop" star has given a speeh at Oxford University, gone to UCLA to study History on her free time and so on. Also she puts her money where her mouth is. He has built 7 schools in Colombia to provide free education and meals for the children.
I think she is the complete package. Go Shakira. Keep the good work