By Richelle Dodaro
Staff Writer
With her seventh studio album, Britney Spears delivers herself as “a dangerously seductive woman,” the meaning behind the album’s title “Femme Fatale.”
Several songs relate to the album’s theme such as “I Wanna Go,” “Seal it with a Kiss,” “Up n’ Down” and “Selfish.” The lyrics of “I Wanna Go” shelve some illustrations of sarcasm, yet it is an unapologetic song about the “dirt in her mind” and her natural desires.
“Seal it with a Kiss” is equally unapologetic as it tells of a forbidden and secret love affair. It has a sound similar to that of Gwen Stefani’s “The Sweet Escape” with its cheerful background vocal elements, making listeners feel like it’s time to head to the beach for some care-free fun.
Spears’ fun seduction seems to be most expressive when it comes to dancing. The first released single, “Hold it Against Me” sets the stage for this world of dancing in which temptations spring. The song pulls listeners into the dance zone, one in which sets Spears on a sort of high, becoming sexually aggressive on the dance floor: “…if I said I want your body now, would you hold it against me?”
This dance-inspired foundation is laid upon the sounds of techno, futurism, and dubstep. These are combined with her signature pop as well as some hip-hop, to create extremely upbeat songs further proving Britney a dance music icon.
Producers and songwriters Max Martin and Dr. Luke dominate the musical and lyrical writing. Other talented collaborators include Will.i.am. on “Big Fat Bass,” Rodney Jerkins on “He About to Lose Me” (which adds a slightly different sound with the raw guitar and hip-hop undertones), and the female rapper Sabi on “(Drop Dead) Beautiful.”
One of my personal favorites from “Femme Fatale” is “Criminal,” while slower-paced, it remains true to the dance theme with its ability to make listeners want to move.
Although Spears’ voice is not the main attraction, it works well with the electronic, techno sounds. “Femme Fatale” flows extremely well without slipping off from its intended musical path.
“Femme Fatale” is available on iTunes as both a regular and deluxe edition. The deluxe edition includes the four extra songs “Up n’ Down,” “He About to Lose Me,” “Selfish” and “Don’t Keep Me Waiting” for $14.99. The regular 12-track disc is $10.99.