★ ★ ★ ★ 1/2 out of 5
Hailed as the "little lady with the big voice" and praised by the likes of Elton John and Michael Jackson, pop heavyweight Anastacia has experienced a great amount of success outside of her native United States since her "I'm Outta Love" debut in 2000. Following a cover album release and her successful second battle with breast cancer, the talented female artist returned with her sixth studio album, Resurrection, last month, her first effort of original material in nearly six years.
Preceded by "Stupid Little Things", a critically-acclaimed pop/rock jam which showed the artist returning to her humble musical roots, the new album is a strong comeback effort that highlights those trademark vocals and a blend of pop, rock and soul inspirations. It is an attitude-filled release that holds true meaning. Though on the scene for almost fifteen years, audiences may finally come to know who Anastacia really is with this simple yet touching project.
Kicking off the incredible resurrection, "Staring at the Sun" is the shining, powerful opening one would hope to hear on the new album. Anastacia hits every single note, delivers each word with so much passion and conviction, while still allowing the track to sound almost effortless. The artist is contemplating the love she shared with another, finally being able to open her eyes to see it was good for neither involved.
"Lifeline" is another slow, emotion-filled ballad where the artist sings of an unfortunate end. "Somebody tell me have I just wasted a lifetime, show me some hope," Anastacia sings on a chorus which could bring a tear to any heartbroken listener. The song does maintain the same progression and tempo, supported most times by a simple piano, but towards the end, the artist ups her vocals and provides one remarkable and memorable moment.
Released as the official lead single, "Stupid Little Things" returned the underrated artist back to the spotlight where she belongs and to her trademark "sprock" roots. The track is more upbeat and positive than the preceding tracks, it highlights the artist's limitless vocal abilities, the production is crisp and it ultimately becomes a well-written pop/rock tune of looking past all the nonsense. P!nk would have killed to release this.
Anastacia gives another haunting, show-stopping performance on "I Don't Want to Be the One", a piano-driven number where she sings of not being completely over her current love. The power of the song lies in the personal songwriting that convey a sense of vulnerability, not being able to go on without that special person in your life. There is a sense of simplicity, of heartbreak that the artist brings to the forefront.
Nobody is perfect, even Anastacia, as she points out on "Evolution". Instead of a somber ballad, production for the track is a bit more uptempo in the sense of the artist, she even gets explicit, as she prepares herself for the next chapter in her life. "And if I stumble on the way, I don't know I'm gonna be okay, it's alright to get myself dirty," she sings on the optimistic anthem of embracing imperfections and changes.
"Pendulum" is a deep look into a troubled relationship, one that was never meant to last. The track starts off slow, but continues to build until it gets to a slightly repetitive yet memorable chorus. While it may not be as immediately attention-grabbing as the rest of the track list, the song does come off as a sentimental, honest message of knowing when to let go and becomes another bright showcase of Anastacia's beautiful voice.
Holding somewhat of a double meaning, in terms of a relationship and the artist's recent cancer battles, "Stay" is a soaring, touching effort that showcases strength. "I need someone to tell me, I'm too hard to break, I'm not ready to go just yet," she belts on the chorus of refusing to give up. Taking her health scares into context, the track is a powerful statement that puts the entire concept of the new album into a different perspective.
Once again, Anastacia paints herself in a bad light on "Dark White Girl", a song where she admits to her demons and wrongdoings. She may not be able to see the light of day, but it is not going to keep her from moving on. There are some simple elements, the concept of good versus evil, however the main message is one of perseverance and it does not sound more honest than when coming from this tough female artist.
The mid-tempo ballad "Apology" has some initial country undertones as Anastacia is supported by a soft piano while pleading for forgiveness and the desire to start over. The artist pours her heart into the lyrics of the song, sounds on the verge of breaking if not broken already, and is ready to take the blame to stop all the fighting. For those experiencing their own break up, try not to be a complete mess once this gem comes to an end.
The album officially closes out with "Broken Wings", another track about pushing forward even when it seems like there is no point. "Even with broken wings, even with shattered dreams, I'm still gonna try, I'm still gonna fly," Anastacia sings on the empowering chorus. Though the meaning of the song will resonate with any listener, it seems this one is for the artist, about her fight, about rising out of her own ashes, she never gave up. Welcome back darling!
Resurrection is the album we wanted and waited to hear from Anastacia. Since stepping out on the scene, the artist has used her trademark, impressive vocals and unique combination of music influences to create a sound she can completely call her own. Six years after her last album of original material, the artist gives her fans an album of beautiful, personal ballads and upbeat tracks of empowerment. The songwriting is on point, the production is the perfect companion, but it eventually all comes down to the vocals of Anastacia and how she is able to convey emotion. She may be underrated, however, for those who come across this album, it will definitely become a hidden gem.
Tracks to Hear: "Staring at the Sun", "Lifeline", "Stay" and "Apology"
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