Ciara

This is a second album of Ciara...I have the first "Goodies" too but I think that it's more better!!! I'm excited when I listen this cd!!!!
Ciara has a sexy voice...I'd like all songs...my favourite are That's Right, Promise, C.R.U.S.H., Make It Last Forever, Get Up!!!
Besides DVD is very interesting...Ciara and Dancers teach Moves from "GET UP" and "PROMISE" (for this last there's Behind Scenes of video)!!!! Moreover there's a music video of "GET UP" and "PROMISE"!!!!

When Ciara Harris debuted in 2004, many wrote her off as just another artist on the crunk train, which would stop making music as soon as the engine behind the trend fizzled out. It is rare for the average artist these days to take a risk, especially when faced with the possibility of the dreaded "sophomore slump" curse. Luckily, Ciara took a risk with her second album and it worked in her favour. With this album, Ciara had a lot to prove, both vocally and stylistically. After her debut, she was quickly written off as a weak singer who could only do well when singing upbeat, dance tracks. In addition, producing album after album of nothing but dance tracks is hardly a viable option, since it is subject to the ever-changing trends and would inevitably become a tired re-hash. While Evolution had proved to most that Ciara can sing, it does not necessarily do much to prove that her albums don't need to be dance-heavy.

In spite of an unnecessary spoken interlude, and even more unnecessary yelling by Lil Jon, "That's Right" is an amazing opening track. The chorus is vaguely reminiscent of Ciara's earlier work, but the verses are on a whole other level. Between the breathy vocals and the driving beat, this is one of the catchiest songs the album has to offer, and a great way to start things off. "Like A Boy" is easily one of the most innovative songs of recent years, especially as it interpolates a positive message among its engaging production. Here, Ciara questions how a guy would react if she started doing things that were stereotypically male. This is likely to become one of Ciara's career highlights. "The Evolution of Music" is the first of a few interludes where Ciara adds in her own commentary about current music. While what she is saying is certainly true, it disrupts the flow of the album. Lead single "Promise" provides solid evidence that Ciara is capable of making a single that is neither upbeat nor crunk. This is also one track that showcases Ciara's singing ability. Here, she opts to sing mostly in falsetto, like she did in her first single, but this time around it sounds much stronger. The bridge in particular sounds beautiful.

"I Proceed" is a confident, hard-hitting dance track although the chorus is quite repetitive. The verses are spoken more than sung, which in most cases is a clear indication that the artists cannot sing, but in this case, it works to Ciara's favour. Despite the repetitive nature of the lyrics, the track as a whole works, although it is far from the best the album has to offer. "Can't Leave Em Alone" features past-his-prime rapper 50 Cent, yet surprisingly he does a decent job. As a single, this track received mixed reviews although considering the two singles before it were so strong, it's no surprise. This is much more of a pop track than anything else Ciara's ever done, yet her ability to pull it off convincingly indicates some level of versatility. Again, the bridge is the best part of the track. "C.R.U.S.H" is another more pop track, which may seem very immature, but it should be pointed out that people of all ages could get crushes. In general, songs where the artist spells things at you tend not to work, but the way Ciara incorporates it into the lyrics makes it believable. Instead of just singing out the letters, each one stands for something Ciara likes about the guy.

"My Love" slows things down into a beautiful mid-tempo kiss-off, in which Ciara lets her guy know that he's the problem. Essentially, Ciara is telling him that if he knew how good he had it, he would have treated her better. This is definitely an album highlight, due to the vocals and simple yet effective lyrics. "Evolution of Dance", another somewhat unnecessary interlude, follows, setting the stage for a slew of dance tracks. The first of these, "Make It Last Forever" is very reminiscent of Janet Jackson, but fails to stand out when compared to the first half of the album. Ciara's airy vocals make this an enjoyable listen and a great album track, but there is nothing especially remarkable. In fact, Ciara's "rap" toward the middle actually detracts from the song as a whole. "Bang It Up" is a step although Ciara's voice is all but completely buried among all the layers. This song suffers from a weak chorus, although the verses sound good. In all honesty, the production makes this song, but its style is enough to make it an enjoyable dance track. "Get Up", the single from the Step Up soundtrack fares much better. It's infectious hip-hop number, and even guest rapper Chamillionaire sounds decent. This probably would not have sounded out of place on Ciara's debut, although that is certainly not a bad thing. "The Evolution of Fashion" is yet another needless interlude, especially since there is only one song between it and the next interlude.

"Get In, Fit In" is easily the worst track this album has to offer. Although the verses aren't bad, there are just too many other things wrong with it. Aside from the repetitive chorus, we have Ciara counting in Japanese for no apparent reason. It tries hard to have a good message, but unlike "Like a Boy", it doesn't have the appeal to back it up. "The Evolution of C" is the final interlude is another nice commentary from Ciara, but really does not contribute anything to the album. Luckily, Evolution ends off with a triumvirate of its strongest tracks. "So Hard" succeeds due to its sincerity and simplicity. Here, Ciara comments on a past relationship and how it is affecting her current one. This is also one of a few tracks to really show off Ciara's vocal ability. "I'm Just Me" uses the overplayed theme of artists being just like everyone else in spite of their fame. In this case, Ciara manages to pull it off rather convincingly. This is arguably the most overlooked track, since few seem to have much opinion on it right away. It is sandwiched between the albums two strongest ballads, and although it is not quite on the same level as they are, it remains a strong track on its own. Finally, Ciara ends off the album with "I Found Myself", a true highlight and testament to her growth. This is one of the most personal tracks, and easily Ciara's best ballad. She is wise enough to remain within her vocal limitations, yet still manages to create a beautiful, touching track.

Overall Mark: 4.5/5

With this album Ciara has skilfully sidestepped the dreaded sophomore slump. At the same time, she brought her work to an unprecedented new level, showcasing her skill at both upbeat and slower tracks. In fact, many of the places where Ciara shines brightest here are the slower-paced tracks. Another main asset is the innovation demonstrated by several of the tracks, especially hit single "Like a Boy". If it weren't for the interludes, and the one weak track, this album just may have been on par to be a contemporary classic, although of course it is too early to tell. Nonetheless, Ciara has already proved herself as more than a one-hit wonder, and hopefully will continue in this vain on albums to come.

She still can't sing very well.

But I guess the beats and topics get more interesting here. I'll give her *that*. Just not much more.

Never liked Like A Boy. Still don't. But Promise? I thought about putting that on my mp3 player. Nice beat, OK lyrics and catchy.

Anyway, the rest of the music here is full of bass, but again, no substance whatsoever.

Her songwriting was never EVER her strong point. But it *does* improve. A *little* here.

Can't Leave Em Alone is a collabo with 50. It showcases dreamy production, and the ladies will eat this up like chocolate. Even though it's filler, filler, filler.

The best songs are:

Promise
Can't Leave Em Alone
Get Up (Feat. Chamillionaire) - bouncy, fun production.

Worst tracks are Get In, Fit In (WTF is with the uninspired "Dah" "Dah" "Dah" "Dah" "Dah" "Dah" "Dah" "Dah" "Dah's"??!) and definitely I Found Myself. Ugh. Ugh. UGH!! (tears hair out)

I hate this CD, and would never EVER buy it!

I do appreciate her shape though. She's thick! And I like the fact that she is a songwriter. I always consider those real artists. And although I don't think she's great at singing, she tries, she writes and she dances.

Artist/10

2 stars.

never liked ciara she's cute but not much of a singer she's best known as a p popper.

I love the cd. It is for ALL listeners not just the kiddies. I have a 9 year old and some of the songs out now are horrid lyrically and murder on the ears. Someone mentioned Crush. Songs like that remind us that everyone can have those feelings-kids and adults-listen to the lyrics. It is called attraction...denial...insecurity...etc. Few songs I don't' like...but I can even tolerate those. It is one of those cds you don't feel like you have to skip every other song. I could do without the lessons; however, they may be just the encouragement someone else needs. That is why cd players have a skip button...

Oh is hot. REAL hot.

One Two Step is filler.

Goodies is OK. The remix is OK.

And I is OK, but she still can't sing.

Don't buy this EVER.

It's a complete waste of money. She has next to no talent. But her dance moves are exceptional.

I would never EVER EVER EVER *EVER* go to her concerts because the ho can't sing.

1.5 stars.

A girl whose singing is little more than breathing and humming at the same time, the mega-successful career of Ciara is another one of these unfortunate examples of why contemporary R&B has been all but flushed down the toilet. The "crunk" background of the title song is actually hypnotic, but only in a mind-numbing kind of way.

When I first saw the video for Ciara's first single, "Goodies," I instantly (and unfairly) dismissed her as another indistinguished pretty face with an okay voice, just capitalizing on the new fad of "crunk music." Oh, was I wrong! Not only did she garner extreme success with that single, but her album went on to go triple platinum. After almost two years of denying how catchy "1,2 Step" and "Oh" were, I finally caved in and bought this album and I'm glad I did.

I'm not exactly sure why she was dubbed as the "princess of Crunk & B," because not one song other than "Goodies" falls into that category. (Marketing scheme, I suppose.) So as you can imagine, I was surprised with this mellow and fun album. Her voice is not anything special, but she works with what she has to a great effect. I commend her for her confidence and swagger. Not only did I love the previously released singles, (excluding the bland and sappy "And I") I enjoyed most of the album. My favorites actually weren't singles at all; "The Title" is a laid-back, summery mid-tempo and "Pick Up The Phone" is an infectious jam with creative lyrics. The production, mostly done by Jazze Pha, is good and most of the songwriting is great, also. Sure there are a few flaws and bland moments here and there, and no this is not the most deep music out there... but if you're looking for a fun and catchy album, you needn't look any further.

We all know that Ciara has a limited range and ballads are definitely not her strong points so right off the back that "And I" would be the worst track vocally. The rest of the album you could listen to when you're cleaning your house. But she's definitely growing as an artist so i do give her credit. The best tracks would be the singles that were released as well as " Thugstyle", "Hotline", and "The Title".

The best song on the album is Oh featuring Ludacris. The beat is insane and Luda's rap is on point.
The hottest tracks are Goodies, 1, 2 Step, Thug Style, Hotline and the Goodies Remix.
And I and Other Chicks are 2 sweet slow jams - her voice is so small but it fits with these songs.
The other tracks are not as outstanding but are solid enough to round out an entertaining CD.

When i heard this single "Promise" i couldn't believe it was Ciara. It got stuck in my head since the first time i heard it. She coming back strong, grown, and more sexy with her 2nd CD. Can't wait until it comes out, it will be on my collection with the other R&B artist. She is doing her thang!!!!!

I like it, its growing on me...I think its waaayyy better than some of the other stuff I'm listenin too... Stay Ciara, grow OUT of aaliyah mode... but stay slim and sexy and the dark hair is gorgeous on you!

It seems like there are so many songs that just try to deliver. Although this past year, there haven't been that many from movies to deliver. Some of the tracks from the movie Step Up, have tried to deliver like Sean Paul & Keisha Cole's reggae-fused duet on Give It Up To me. For Ciara though, she wasn't as unfortunate with her single Get Up. The song really is fair, but it just doesn't have as much style. When I first heard this song, I thought it could've been from someone else. Although she only came out a few years ago, she really needs to find her way into other beats, especially when it is so fami;iar with her past hits Oh, and 1,2,Step.

Song: C

I love this song to death, when I first heard it I was watching a brief on the iTunes website and fell in love with it. I think Ciara used her same "club/dance/shake/booty-pop" vibe on this one but she did it without the help of Missy Elliott.

..instead she rounded Houston native Chamillionaire to deliver some of his well-noted rhymes on the track that proved to be a rather pleasant combination. The song was featured on the "Step-Up" soundtrack and may possibly be featured on her sophomore effort "Ciara: The Evolution."

Some people think it's pathedic. i totally dissagree. You judge it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
-she sings great
-awsome dance moves

People that gave one star RELAX. This song is a dance song, that's all it is. Its not gonna save the world or start a revolution. Its just a song you can dance to, really. My god. Anyways, hot song.. we all know how it sounds, if u dont like it, dont buy it. Simple as a dimple aint it?

it was a little slow in getting here but all is well thank you

This song's distinctive, infectious beat made it a huge hit worldwide. This song is a great follow up to her first hit, "Goodies" featuring Petey Pablo. The lyrics aren't especially clever or thought provoking: "Rock it, don't Stop it, everybody get on the floor, crank the party up we about to get it on, let me see you 1,2 step..." but that's ok because it's a song to dance, not philosophize to! Jazze Pha's introduction and Missy Elliot's verse at the end blend in nicely. By the way, it's funny that so many people here are calling Ciara a one hit wonder. She's had three hit singles so far and is featured on Missy Elliot's latest hit, "Lose Control." I think she definitely has a future in the fickle music industry, partly because she's Missy's protégé and she works with tons of huge names such as Dr. Dre and Ludacris.

For all those idiots who said Ciara would be a 1-Hit wonder, lets take a look at her track record! Goodies #1, 1,2 Step #2, & Oh #2. Lose Control with Missy has just cracked the Top 10, making it a definite hit. She still has one more single coming, presumedly Thug Style. We'll have to wait & see if she can carry an entire single on her own. But, for now she has 2 other featured singles coming up. Like U with Bow Wow is going to shoot up to #1 so fast! Then, If I Hit (Remix) with T.I. & 112, will definitely be a hit in the urban markey as well.

As for this single, well it's amazing! Love it! Go on Ciara!