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80 of 92 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
The Artist Formerly Known As Utada Hikaru ..., October 5, 2004
Above and beyond the hype (i.e., Japanese pop superstar sets her sights on the USA), EXODUS succeeds based on its varied musical merits, one that may take several listens to fully appreciate. I've been enthusiastic about 21-year old Hikaru Utada's music for the past five years via imported CDs and DVDs, hearing a fresh approach to pop with liberal doses of hiphop, r&b, nu-soul, and extending even into reggae, jazz, rock, etc. Her career began at a level of depth beyond her years, and with each successive album she has grown musically without losing sight of what she previously accomplished.
What strikes me above and beyond all else on EXODUS is that Utada seems focused on letting her musical imagination run wild, with remarkably little calculation to fit into mainstream pop culture musical trends. At the same time, she succeeds in finding that elusive balance between experimentation and familiarity that gives EXODUS the potential to please both those who want to be entertained as well as those who need to be challenged. Several tracks such as "Devil Inside" and the lead single "Easy Breezy" are already making waves. But EXODUS is one of those rare albums that stays inspired from beginning to end.
There are some quite provocative lyrics at times, particularly on "Tippy Toe" that appears to come from the perspective of an opportunistic woman who seduces a married man (who shares the blame of course), seemingly turned on even further by the fact that their actions are likely to tear his family apart. Without actually showing her hand, I hear this cut as a wry indictment of such shameful behavior (btw: Utada is a married woman). However you might interpret the lyrics, it sure does place an incendiary topic on the table. No matter what the theme, the album's lyrics -- mostly less controversial than "Toe" -- avoid the plastic and/or profane excesses of pop culture, which to me makes EXODUS an album mostly suitable for all ages (with maybe some intermittent parental guidance for the youngsters).
Musically, EXODUS boldly combines classic synth sounds (funk, prog-rock, etc.), post-hiphop production, and a lot of seamless genre-blending in a manner that throughout is a fresh musical experience, an aural portrait of musical unity. The melodies without exception stay fresh over repeated listenings, and Utada's vocals give expression to a variety of moods. Timbaland produces three cuts, but no matter who is assisting it is Utada's vision that dominates. Pop culture has always been in dire need of depth and substance to counterbalance those who merely follow the money trail, and EXODUS continues Utada's track record of delivering music that will appeal to open-minded listeners of all ages ... and this time sung in English.
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19 of 20 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
A new sound from one of the world's greatest talents, October 9, 2004
"Exodus", the first English langauge album from Utada, is quite the work. It's much different from the Utada Hikaru that everyone is used to, but everything on the album is great, just in a different way than her older music.
Obviously, first, the songs are quite different from her Japanese music - more hip hop than her "First Love" style R&B. But each song is interesting in its musicality - songs like "Hotel Lobby" and "You Make Me Want to Be A Man" (which, by the way, probably has nothing to do with what you're thinking!) have catchy Asian beats that accent the song perfectly. "Exodus '04" is a natural standout musically as well, with production from hip hop giant Timbaland.
The lyrics are also something new - and even shocking for some old fans. Utada mentioning "sex" in any form is a new thing for the most part. But the album in no way suffers from her references to sexuality. All of her songs feature a new story: "Tippy Toe" (which feels unfriendly at first but catches on to you very quickly) is about what it is like to be the "other woman" in an illict relationship, while the aforementioned "Hotel Lobby" is about a woman who sells herself. Again, "Exodus '04" is another standout lyrically, seeming to be the most personal to Utada as she discusses the journey she made to America from the Japanese music scene.
I can't forget to mention "Kremlin Dusk", however, which could easily be called the best track on the album - but I'll leave this song a surprise.
The most important thing to note about this album is that it is different from everything that is out there right now. Utada is light years ahead of the popular songstresses of today, not because her voice is any better or worse, but because of her passion for songwriting and her zeal for doing things herself (even producing all of the non-Timbaland tracks). She is an amazing musician, and should be given nothing but praise for this daring album.
Overall, a very worthy buy, whether you're a fan of Utada Hikaru, a fan of hip hop music, or just a fan of good, interesting music in general. Pick up Exodus right now!
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25 of 28 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Excellent!!!, October 2, 2004
Utada's album Exodus is another tribute to her talent! She create a unique and new sound, blending beautiful melody and tight beats. Her lyrics show a different side of her that adds a new dimension to her style and personality. To all you Utada fans: this is a must add to your collection! And to everyone else: if your tired of the same-old, same-old and is looking for fresh and unique sound, look no further!!!
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