Mariah Carey - Me. I Am Mariah... The Elusive Chanteuse

This is the 14th studio album from the legendary singer-songwriter. After numerous delays and changed release dates, the album will be released on May 26. The album is one of her most introspective since her Daydream and Butterfly albums released in 1995 and 1997. Those gave fans a window into the her troubled first marriage and her emotional state. This album also shows signs that all is not well with her current marriage, as illustrated on a number of the songs. While some of the songs are open for interpretation and could be hypothetical, but given how involved Mariah is with the writing of her songs, it's safe to assume that these songs could be at lease semi-autobiographical.

The album begins with the midtempo ballads "Cry" and "Faded" which seem to hint at potential trouble in her marriage. Things pick up with "Dedicated" which features Nas and "Beautiful" which features Miguel. "Dedicated" is a delightful throwback to late 90s Mariah. "Thirsty" is a campy Hip Hop club banger that is sure to be a fan favorite with all of its quotable lines. "Make It Look Good" and "You're Mine (Eternal)" also recall 90s Mariah. "You Don't Know What To Do" is a stunning, groovyy Disco/R&B cut which samples the underground classic "I'm Caught Up (In A One Night Love Affair)" by Inner Life & Jocelyn Brown. This is a borderline Disco/House track. It's the closest Mariah has come to Dance music since 2008's "I'm That Chick", and her own remixes. "Supernatural" is a sweet track with additional vocals by Mariah and Nick's adorable children. Things go Disco for one more song in the form of "Meteorite" which is an interesting critique on fame. It could be argued that this song is about American Idol. "Camouflage" is a dark song about hiding how one really feels. This could be seen as a companion to "Looking In" (from Daydream). "Money" is another ratchet uptempo. Things close on an almost church-like note with her cover of George Michael's "One More Try" and the rousing "Heavenly".

Overall, this album is her strongest since her comeback album The Emancipation Of Mimi. It is a cohesive collection of songs covering a variety of styles and sounds dating all the way back to her debut. Mariah's voice sounds stronger and fuller than it did on her last two albums. The songwriting is mature and deeply personal. There are no surprising disasters or missteps with this one.

Purchase the album here (iTunes)

Grade: A