Arjan Writes

Back In The Zone: Britney's New Album

November 02, 2007

The last two years haven't been exactly rosy for Britney Spears.

Not only did she turn from "Miss American Dream" into a single mother of two, but she is also in the middle of a fierce child custody battle, faces persistent rumors about substance abuse and deals with critics that go as far as to question her sanity. And if that wasn't enough, all of Spears' drama is captured by the prying lenses of paparazzi photographers who have made profitable careers out of documenting her every move.

But despite her trials and tribulations, the fallen pop princess has found time to work on her much-anticipated new album, titled "Blackout," which landed in stores earlier this week.

"Blackout" is the entertainer’s fifth studio album that follows 2003's smash "In The Zone." Spears teamed up with a group of crafty writers and producers who infused her music with fresh urban-pop stylings and even some electronic ingredients that, dare I say, are unexpectedly cutting-edge for a mainstream pop record.

"Blackout" can easily be considered one of the most noteworthy records of her career. But that is not because of Spears’ assured delivery, lyrical involvement or breathtaking vocals. It is first and foremost a record that spotlights the ingenuity of its producers. The folks turning the knobs on the soundboard truly deserve all the credit for the brilliant sonics on this album. In reality, they treat Britney's vocals as a glorified sound effect that is as important as the big, fat beats and catchy synth riffs that make up the record.