Review Summary: The most challenging time of Grande's discography.
Ariana Grande's destiny on mainstream scene was predicted as teen idol since her debut album "Yours Truly" was released. It wasn't a big surprise that Ariana destroyed airplay charts with her next studio effort, "My Everything". Four worldwide top ten hits, broken Billboard records and critical acclaim mades Ariana more and more promising person on pop stardom. Other question is how Ariana will build herself as solid artist, not another plastic blonde doll with quirky dances and bubblegum tracks? She found herself with "Dangerous Woman", which probably showed mature side of 22-year-old artist from Florida.
First news about her third album we heard in October 2015, when Grande released her supposed-to-be-the-lead-single, «Focus». Track should be another hit for Ms. Ariana, but it stalled on charts for few weeks. Who cares about bland copy of «Problem», which was one of the best-selling singles year ago before «Focus»? In my opinion, it was right decision to cut this goofy retro track, even her vocal and some lyrical moments were irreprehensible.
Previously called as "Moonlight", album is special mix of passionate bangers and sultry vocal ballads. Sensual tracks like «Into You» and «Let Me Love You» find Grande loves herself in Mariah’s vocal stylistic. Both songs are great chances for pop starlet to get No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 (she hasn’t number-one hit yet). «Be Alright» is a well-known house sound from 90’s. Young pop star finds her unknown strength to emancipation and individuality in her funky vulnerability.
«Dangerous Woman» is song of Grande’s career: smothering old school blues, spirited vigorous message and sophisticated lyrical content are reasons why track is important for Ariana. It sounds like classic essential from past century and future nominees grab for Grammy Awards.
Moody and heartfelt collaborations are other, more encouraging aspects of singer’s side. She moves from innocent dance floor anthem to tight and forceful compositions.
Her new teamwork with soul songstress Macy Gray on «Leave Me Lonely» proves right: lucky vocal keys were successfully founded by divas. As «Dangerous Woman», «Leave Me Lonely» has enormous potential to be immense soundtracks for blockbusters. Third collaboration with Nicki Minaj on «Side to Side» is reggie-child with unapologetic dance beat. Singers are ready for summer season, as you can see on this jawbreaker club confection.
We know that Ariana is very rich and sexy, but she proves that she’s still decent vocalist. Mariah should be in long confusion after she didn’t recognize her vocal daughter.
