Music Review: She Wolf
What Parents Should Know
Parents need to know that overall this album is mostly OK
for young teens, but parents should still be ready to talk
about certain issues. A discussion about healthy relationships
might be in order since this album presents some iffy role
models for kids entering the dating scene. Talk of "not
waiting," purposely picking the bad boy, and seeking revenge
after a failed relationship are some of the dicey areas here.
Although there's a definite sexiness to the songs, the lyrics
don't really go beyond flirtation and kissing references.
For fans familiar with Shakira's music, SHE WOLF might be a
bit of a surprise. That's because the South American star has
moved beyond the pop charts and jumped into the clubs, adding
electronica and dancehall sounds to the mix this time around.
That means there's lots of sound effects, techno beats, and
synthesized sounds to be found on this, her third English
album. Besides trying out new sounds, Shakira's lyrics also get
a little darker, with songs focused on both the good and bad
sides of love. Some of the famous names tied to this LP include
Lil Wayne, who collaborates with her on "Give It Up to Me," and
producers Timbaland and Pharrell Williams.
Taking chances is usually a good thing for a musician. But
when the results are as excellent as they are on this album,
it's a reason to celebrate. Shakira brings the high-tech sounds
of electronic pop and dancehall to the masses, making the
genres easily digestible and user-friendly. But it's not just
the hot sounds that make this album a stand-out: Shakira's
lyrics and subject matter remain interesting and at time
irreverent. After all, how many songs about gypsies have there
been in the past decade, and how many other singers today can
pull off singing about French fleas and bad plumbing while
staying sexy? Teens may not appreciate the unusual lyrics, but
they'll love the dance party beats.
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