Solid, down-tempo release from pop legend Sandra
A. Salas | Brooklyn, New York United States | 06/11/2007
(4 out of 5 stars)
"After another long wait, Sandra finally releases an album of new tracks. Was it worth the wait? Yes, although expectations were so high it's hard to imagine everyone being pleased.
Despite what other reviewers have said, I don't think The Art of Love is very unlike Sandra's previous recordings... maybe less upbeat numbers, but definitely in her style. I'd compare it to the organic, more acoustic sound of Paintings In Yellow rather than her early 80s synth-heavy releases, though.
While I too was disappointed by the lack of upbeat, more electronic tracks, I found the songs staying with me, growing on me... now it's one of the CDs I play most often at the moment.
Vocally, Sandra's voice seems weaker as the years go by, she frequently sounds breathless... and her spoken dialogues are a bit silly. However, this may just be vocal stylings, along with an annoying growl she's developed in her later recordings.
She's written most of the lyrics this time around, and done a fine job. They seem very personal, sincere... to the point where I am seriously concerned over the state of her marriage with (ex-producer/husband) Michael Cretu!
This is a fine album, however. I do think that if Sandra recorded more frequently, people would be more forgiving of her trying new things. After 6 years between CDs, fans expect her to hit the bull's eye... and rightfully so."
Better than the critics would have you believe
cherubino | Houston, Texas United States | 08/24/2007
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Sandra was on to something with the Art of Love, but the resulting album doesn't live up to its full potential. This time around, Sandra fans will have to tolerate a few weak numbers. But, with thirteen tracks, there are plenty enough to enjoy.
Sandra should be appreciated for soldiering on, when so many other artists from the eighties have fizzled out. But, when album releases slow to the pace of Enya, there must be more to them.
There are a few songs that I find disappointing, where the production is uneven, and Sandra's vocals aren't convincing. But, there are several instances where Sandra blows me away. Putting up with one or two howlers is worth the huge payoff of the winners. Here are my favorites:
What D'Ya Think of Me: Sandra has always had her own unique brand of sensuality. It was hinted at during her eighties heyday, and came to the forefront with Close to Seven, and her stint as "The Voice of Enigma." Honestly, is there anyone who can can make spoken-word sentences sound so seductive? What D'Ya Think of me is full of that, slinky and sexy. The guitar riffs in the background are also a Sandra trademark. Her husband, Michael Cretu, discovered that Sandra's vocal sounded great with guitar elements, which was fundamental in updating her sound in the nineties and beyond.
The Way I Am: Has "anthem" written all over it. A song about being yourself, despite those who judge you. The "na, na, na" part is a little too Kylie Minogue, but maybe that was the idea.
What is It About Me: Love the guitars here. This is a different sound for Sandra, and it works. Definitely captures that summer in the Meditteranean feel.
Silence Beside Me: Sexy spoken word, with a twist of anger. I personally interpret this song about her record label. On the surface, it's about being let down with broken promises by a someone you love. In the chorus part, I hear echoes of the Brazilian style of singing (listen to how she sings "my heart is dying"). The harmonica at the end is a nice touch.
Art of Love- Another song that washes over you. Again, I'm reminded of the Close to Seven period (Steady Me, anyone?). The love vibe here is much warmer, perhaps a kind of love letter to her family. The Asian accompaniments are perfectly placed.
What's Left To Say- Sandra once again takes her imagined lover to task. Honestly, we've all been there. I know I can definitely relate.
Casino Royale- Too bad this wasn't chosen for the last James Bond film, of the same name. A potent blend of seduction and danger.
Shadow of Power- There is an Enigma element that is tangible. The hook at the start of the song reminds me of Goodbye Milky Way, from the A Posteriori album. The blend of that hook with some more traditional Sandra elements is simply incredible. This is pure genius.
Eight good songs isn't bad, for any artist. Hell, I can think of a couple of Madonna albums that don't even match that feat. Whomever wrote the really bad reviews just don't want Sandra to evolve and change. If you want something more predictable and upbeat, go for The Wheel of Time, another excellent album.
Thank God Sandra is strong and wise enough to know the folly of recycling her eighties image and sound. Now, she is more thought-provoking, and intelligent. Don't let the critics silence you, Sandra.
"
