As with my other reviews, this one’s been out a while, but I thought I’ve review it anyway. Reviewing things after other idiots like me have already talked garbage about it is often useful – it allows you to step back and really take a good look at it, without feeling any obligation to follow other people in praising or deriding an album. This has been the case with Mya’s Mood Ring. After it debuted to rather unfavourable views, I thought I would check it out regardless. I liked it. The more I listen to it, the more I enjoy it.
Mood Ring isn’t groundbreaking in any way but what it is is flavoursome and varied. Mya walks the line between R&B and what we normally associate with hip-hop more finely than other of her peers, and it’s this that keeps you guessing throughout the album. The songs allow her different virtues to emerge, from the intimate and vulnerable Anatomy One On One to the restless and strained lyricism of Fallen. Her vocal range is also fine, from hushed sex appeal to soaring gospel a la Christina Aguilera. It’s a shame that she’s being marketed more on image, as her singing talents are not inconsiderable – this isn’t just a pretty face. Admittedly, there are one or two clunkers like Whatever Bitch and the cover of Tom Petty’s hit Free Fallin’ (perhaps you will enjoy it, but the original is an old favourite of mine) but the overall impression remains that Mya really has done well on this album, and the rewards are there for those of us who actually listen out.
It’s familiar territory but it doesn’t mean it’s not enjoyable music. This is an album that encourages you to put back your expectations and prejudices and just listen, above everything else, and appreciate the music for what it is.
7/10