Review: V
What Parents Should Know
Parents need to know that there is nary a hint of sexual
innuendo here. And even though Vanessa is another attractive
pop diva wannabe, the album, refreshingly, doesn't resort to
overt sexual marketing.
Families can talk about the appeal of someone like Vanessa
Hudgens. Does she talk about what you talk about with your
friends? Does she seem like someone you'd hang out with instead
of someone too glamorous to be a regular teen? When she talks
about boys and high school relationships, do you feel the same
way she does? Why or why not? Do you think she's that way in
real life, or does this have to do with selling her album? If
you saw her in
High School Musical, does she seem different than her
character?
Vanessa Hudgens has impressive credentials for one so young, including TV, theater, and films. Her most successful role so far was starring opposite Zac Efron in the Disney made-for-TV movie High School Musical. Hudgens' debut CD, V, is well positioned to win the approval of the tween+ girl market. Her 12 relatively simple, syrupy-sweet pop songs about boys, hanging out with friends, dancing, girl power, and the trials and tribulations of a very young life are delivered with the latest in slick, recycled, computer-programmed music and hip-hop beats.
Unfortunately there are surprisingly few live musicians to be found on this album, but Vanessa Hudgens has a capable, if not overly original, voice. Hudgens is strong, steady, and comfortable in the midrange, as when she's singing the club/dance tune "Let's Dance" and the pop/rocker "Never Underestimate a Girl." Otherwise her voice can range from diminutive and mousy to downright shrill. As her voice and her musical talents mature, it would be nice to see Hudgens take more risks and produce something more original. Then as her audience matures, they won't leave her behind.
The Cheetah GirlsThe High School Musical Soundtrack
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