When Breakaway, Kelly Clarkson's sophomore effort, was released, she went from reality show winner to pop/rock queen. She scored five massive hits that drove the album to sales of 6 million, virtually unheard of today's climate.
Considering the disastrous flop that was My December, it's understandable that Kelly would want to return to the days where she ruled radio.
Still, it was surprising to hear the opening guitar from mega-hit "Since U Been Gone" on her new single, "My Life Would Suck Without You".
Did that mean it was going to be some epic pop masterpiece like it's distant cousin?
Unfortunately, nope.
"My Life Would Suck Without You" is surprising, almost shockingly, plain. Yes, I said it, plain. There are some other words that fit this song that shouldn't; boring, uninspired, cliche, and complacent.
I have a hard time believing that Kelly recorded this song without gritting her teeth, just once. This sorely lacks the energy of "Sober", "Since U Been Gone", "Behind These Hazel Eyes"; hell, even "Breakaway" packs a bigger punch than this. While it's nice to hear Kelly not damning some poor sap to hell, I miss the captivating fire that came with her songs. It appears that Max Martin and Dr. Luke are saving the really good stuff for the other pop princesses that were keeping her seat warm.
Speaking of, why do I get the feeling that if Kelly was replaced with, say Pink or most evidently Katy Perry, the difference would be non-existent?
Regardless of what I write, this song will be an absolute smash, because its so generic and non-threatening. I wouldn't be shocked if went to #1 and stayed there for a month. I'll be happy for her, since the American Idol memories are still relatively fresh. Yet, I'll a probably feel little ping of annoyance as I grasp the fact that this outpeaked pop brilliance like her previous Breakaway hits.
BWU RATES: 6 OUT OF 10
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