REVIEW: Gwen Stefani's new album "Love, Angel, Music, Baby"

I acquired Gwen Stefani’s new album last night, and have been listening to it all morning. I figured I’d write up a review, for a couple of reasons. First of all, I haven’t done one in a while. More importantly, this album is really NOT what I was expecting. I think a lot of people are going to be disappointed, simply because they have certain expectations for the album. I’d have to say I am enjoying the album, but I don’t think it will become one of my favorites.

The album is a typical studio release in terms of what you get – 12 tracks for a total running time of just over 52 minutes. Nothing spectacular. On the other hand, the CD is appropriately priced, being 10.99 in the US and 12.99 in Canada. The first single off the album is the very catchy tune, “What You Waiting For?” I really liked this song when I heard it on the radio for the first time, and I still like it quite a bit. Just something about it! I guess you could describe that song as “electric-pop”, and unlike a lot of first singles, it is quite representative of the overall sound of the album. Basically, “Love, Angel, Music, Baby” is like an electric version of 1980’s Madonna.

Other tracks on the album include “Rich Girl”, featuring Eve, “Hollaback Girl”, “Cool”, “Bubble Pop Electric”, “Luxurious”, “Harajuku Girls”, “Crash”, “Real Thing”, “Serious”, “Danger Zone”, and “Long Way to Go” featuring Andre 3000. I think my favorite song so far is “Serious”, which sounds very much like something Madonna might have put out and then remixed. A lot of the songs are catchy, and sound very polished. “Rich Girl” and “Danger Zone” are probably my next favorite tracks (and no, the latter sounds nothing like Kenny Loggins’ song of the same name).

Overall I think the album is worth the money. I think Gwen has gone and made an album that she wanted to, but that is different than most people would expect, so kudos for that. I don’t know how she could possibly perform any of these songs live, at least not without backup synths and samples. If you’re not into electric-pop music, you probably won’t like this release. And if you’re expecting something that sounds like No Doubt, you’ll be disappointed. Otherwise, I think you’ll probably enjoy Gwen’s first solo effort. I know I am!

33 thoughts on “REVIEW: Gwen Stefani's new album "Love, Angel, Music, Baby"

  1. Reading this review has inspired me to go out and buy the album.Gwen Stefani hasn’t got a huge following over here in the UK. there isn’t very much air play of her own tracks or NO doubts songs.
    i’ll let you know what i think to the album later. going to go and buy it now.

  2. I am from Australia and i brought this album, based on the fact i love what u waiting for and i saw her perform the sogn Rich Girl and really liked it also. I am glad i brought the album, it is very different but it is wierd as most of the tracks are about her love for Harajuku girls. Anyway the majority of the tracks are very strong but there are a few whih probably wont be hits, but overall a satisfying buy.

  3. OMG.. Gwen Stefani is the greatest person to ever live!! I bought this album the day it came out and i LOVE it!! **proud owner of the deluxe edition** I own every single no doubt cd.. ever… but anyways. This cd so soo good. "serious", "danger zone" and "what you waiting for" are the best on it.. everyone should buy it, because it is the best… EVER.:)

    + Dennis +

  4. THIS IS THE BEST ALBUM EVA!!

    I think Gwen should release The Real Thing or Harajuku Girls next what does evry1 else think?

    Luv ya Gwen ur the best!!

  5. I i have to say that this is the first cd that I have bought and enjoyed every single song on it!!!! I love Gwen and want her to hurry up with a new cd! I will never tire of this cd!

  6. you were the first person i ever liked and i have all your dcs and the new one also.i just want to say keep up the good singing! LAMB!

  7. I have been trying to get the name of her new song. In the song it say these bananas b-a-n-a-n-a-s. If anyone knows please tell me.Im me @ cookiemonsterkt7. If you have aim.

  8. Ya, Gwen Stefani and Tuomo Kuusi from Flannelmouth should do a duet. He makes a better female vocalist than Gwen (ha ha ha). Gott’a love Rich Girl, fun-key!

  9. hey does anybody know who the guy in gwen’s new "cool" video is?? he has such adorable eyes- please tell me if you know (strawberry_cheesecake79@hotmail.com) pls. pls. @.~

  10. hi I came across your site and I really appreciate your work. I’m fond of music and just wanted to say that you provide people with very useful information. Thanks

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