Sugababes

So the latest Sugababes album is here. It's becoming a regular occurance, that at the end of every year the trio release a new album.

Their previous album, Change, was rather a disappointment. At the time (check back through my reviews for my take on it), I loved it, but over time the album has become boring. Thankfully, Catfights & Spotlights is a lot better. Yes, this might not be a popular opinion but I genuinelly like this album. The standout tracks make the whole CD for me.

So what are these tracks?

Well, my favourite song on the album is the ballad "Sunday Rain." This song is just gorgeous. The Babes do a cracker ballad, every album they've released has had a couple of good ballads and this is no exception. "Sunday Rain" has a retro feel to it, which makes you feel like you're in the 50's or 60's. It has creative lyrics ("standing on the platform, waiting for the train, watching the weather change") and a really catchy chorus for a ballad. The highlight of the CD and my favourite track for sure.

Another standout is the fan's favourite track, "Every Heart Broken." I have to admit, this track took awhile to grow on me, but now I adore it, it's one of my favourites. The lyrics are incredibly cool ("when he said cut, I took it literally") and quite dark, considering the track used to be called "Murder One." It's also really catchy and the girls sound awesome. I hope this is a single.

The album's official closing track, "Can We Call A Truce" is another highlight. It's another Babes ballad and it was actually my favourite on the first listen of the album. The girls talk more then sing in this track and yet again, the lyrics are top notch. I absolutely love this song, it's another favourite.

Another track that seems to have favour with the fans is "Side Chick." I find this track rather interesting. Sometimes I love it, sometimes I hate it. It's really catchy and Keisha sounds great on it.

I know it's not an official track, but I adore "She's Like A Star" with Taio Cruz. It's just such a cute track. Taio sounds great and the Babes complement him nicely. It's a short little track, but it works.

"Beware" is another cool track, lead by Amelle. It's another shorter track but packs a powerful punch, it's really catchy.

I must make a mention of the album's lead single, "Girls." What in the world were the girls thinking when they released this? It's their worst single yet. It's so boring! If the album failed, it was because of this song.

This album isn't nearly as strong as the new Girls Aloud album, Out Of Control, but it's still a fine offering from the Babes. I would have given it 4 stars, but I adore "Sunday Rain," "Every Heart Broken," "Can We Call A Truce" and "She's Like A Star" too much to do that.

Despite just being released at the end of 2008, Catfights and Spotlights - the Sugababes' 6th studio album - has already been scrapped for additional promotion via tours / singles, etc...which says something about the quality of this disc. After reading some slightly more negative reviews, I decided to give the disc a spin anyway and honestly enjoyed what I was listening to - perhaps because I'm a long-time fan of the girls. On the flip side though, it does make sense as to why the album will receive no further promotion - it's very generic sounding, yet the tunes that actually do stand out are almost a bit too far from typical Sugababes songs to really bother investing record label dollars into. Additionally don't be fooled by the title - much like Britney Spears' new release 'Circus', the title perhaps refers more to the 'babes media perceptions rather than the content on the album.

To recap the album - it kicks off with 'The Girls', the first (poorly performing) single, a 70s-influenced number which is very catchy in terms of the actual instruments, but kind of lacking in clever / interesting lyrics and arrangement. 'You On A Good Day' continues on the retro-flavoured vibe with a 60s girl group type tune, one of the best on the album. 'No Can Do', the second single off the album, goes back to the 70s in a Jackson 5-esque soul number.

'Hanging On A Star' is oddly reminiscent of early 2K group S Club 7 in terms of being a generic Brit pop tune. In contrast, 'Side Chick' sounds more like classic Sugababes with a bit of an urban, if not more generic flare this time around. 'Unbreakable Heart' is one of the better mid-tempo / ballad type songs that echoes the title track of the girls' last album 'Change' although the chorus kind of tempers the more interesting verse arrangements.

'Sunday Rain' channels a bit of the 1920s-style jazzy soul singer as well as some of the better Sugababes ballads of past ('Honestly', 'Too Lost In You') but feels overproduced / synthetic on this collection. 'Every Heart Broken' is a bit of a departure from regular Sugababes fare, with tons of strings and piano rather than electro-sounds, but again, still manages to come off as a bit bland here. 'Beware' legitimately has a creepy music bed to it that is completely distracting from actually being able to consider this a good song.

'Nothin's As Good As You' is one of my better-liked songs on the album, sort of like a stripped down version of a lot of the girls' singles ('About You Now' etc.) It's nothing particularly mind-blowing, but it's definitely one of the catchier, more pleasant-sounding songs on the album. 'Sound of Goodbye' is probably my favourite ballad on the album although it's not as good as some of my fave past ballads ('Undignified', 'Two Hearts') on the last few albums the girls have released. It does have some more interesting vocals that don't feel quite so processed though. 'Can We Call A Truce' is very American hip hop sounding - I agree with comments that it echoes Timbaland-styled tunes. It's not super, but it's relatively catchy with interesting strings.

Finally the two bonus tracks are a live/acoustic version of the girls' last mega-hit 'About You Now' and another song where they basically just have some guest vocals on another artists' track. Translation = forgettable.

My general bottom line would be if you're a consistent fan of the girls as I am, this album won't disappoint too much - but if you're someone that only picks up their albums for their singles, this is probably skippable until their 7th album comes out in 09. Still catchy, but not as interesting as usual unfortunately.

Not their best material, but good enough for repeat listening when there is a lack of other compelling releases. Lead singer has a great voice, I didn't even notice lack of Mutya.

1. Girls- the first single is cool, but a needed to listen to it a couple of times to start to like it.7/10
2. You on a Good Day- Another cool song, but compared to sugababes' previous stuff it is only generic, but is best than "Hanging on a Star".6/10
3. No Can Do- Boring song, it never could be the 2nd single, after the almost failure of "girls" that reached only at #8, they could choose better.3/10
4. Hanging on a Star- Pure generic song, skip it,the worst song on the album.0/10
5. Side Chick- The best song on the entire album. It remembers me of Open the Door" from their previous album "Change". It turns out of the "old" feeling of the album, but if it wasn't there this album would't be complete.10/10
6. Unbreakable Heart- My 3rd favourite. The beginning is strange, but the chorus is amazing.10/10
7. Sunday Rain- It's just OK, it's not a great song, but it's better than others.7/10
8. Every Heart Broken- The beginning of this song is amazing,the lyrics are beautiful and depressive, but when the chorus starts... I really expected more from this song, because it was the most commented, everybody was saying that this is the best Sugababes song and the lyrics were so fantastic... but the change of key in the chorus is a total mistake and the song lost all of it's beauty.5/10
9. Beware- Anoter OK song. the chorus have a strange rythmyn that doesn't seem to fit in the song. 6/10
10. Nothing's as Good as You- It's better than the other, but it isn't their style. 7/10
11. Sound Of Goodbye- This song is good, the lyrics are cool, but the chorus could be better. 8/10
12. Can We Call a Truce- The 2nd best song of the album, it gets out of the "old" vibe too, it sound too americanized to me, this song could do some success in the U.S. 10/10
13. About You Now (Acoustic)- Not as good as the original.3/10
14. She's Like a Star (feat Taio Cruz)- This is really Taio Cruz feat. Sugababes, and they just sing a small part (taking in consideration this song is just 2:46 long). It could be bigger, and the Sugababes could sing more on it. 5/10
Overall- 6/10. This is not they at their best, but after the great success they had with at least their 3 previous albums (Three, Taller in More Ways and Change) I would expect a lot more from this, it just worth the way because of "Side Chick" and "Can We Call a Truce".

1. Girls - 1/10 terrible song, terrible single choice, they must have been high when they chose this as a single, shouldn't even be on the album, and the lyrics are horrible too.
2. You On A Good Day - 9/10, I hate 60's influenced songs, but this is a great song and the chorus really stands out.
3. No Can Do - 2/10, boring and blah song, bad 2nd single choice.
4. Hanging On A Star - 7/10, a mildly enetertaing up tempo track.
5. Side Chick - 10/10, ace song, sounds similar to Robyn's "Handle Me," probably because of the same songwriter on both songs.
6. Unbreakable Heart - 8/10, pretty great, but not amazing, but I like the production values on the song.
7. Sunday Rain - 8/10, good 50's inspired song with a cool chorus.
8. Every Heart Broken - 10/10, best song on the album, should have been the first single, it's that amazing. The lyrics are sly, the song is catchy as hell, and the production on it is beautiful.
9. Beware - 8/10, a different sounding song, but oddly unique and entertaining.
10. Nothing's As Good As You - 6/10, it's ok, but pretty forgetable.
11. Sound Of Goodbye - 7/10, better than the last track, but nothing breathtaking
12. Can We Call A Truce - 8/10, good song, not as great as some of the others on the album, but it's a pretty song and a smidge depressing.

Bonus Tracks:

13. About You Now (Acoustic Version) - 6/10, not as good as the original version.
14. She's Like A Star - 1/10, BLAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

I downloaded this album and i finally got the Physical copy, I'm quiet disappointed in this album, I loved About You now, Never Gonna Dance Again, My Love Is Pink, Denial, and Undignified. Its quiet different, from previous albums, which all i have loved i don't mind listening to the full album. its just With change i only listen to the ones i like and skip over the other songs i did not list. i hope the new album Catfights And Spotlights will make up for this album.

Going through personnel changes every few years can often wear or tarnish the shelf life of your average pop group. U.K. pop outfit the Sugababes seem to be the exception to this rule, having now lost two of its' original members(Siobhan Donaghy in 2001 and Mutya Buena in 2006), leaving Keisha Buchanan to shoulder on with v2.0 replacement Heidi Range and latest member Amelle. The "change" is minimal here, as the girls still get top shelf production and co-writing assists from various and sundry sources. Lead off single "About You Now", from the estimable Cathy Dennis, is a definite departure from the group's typical mix of pop/R&B--it's far more akin to a Kelly Clarkson/Pink hybrid of crunchy guitar pop, and doesn't even settle in until repeated listens, at which point it becomes one of their very best singles yet. Two Xenomania tracks, "Never Gonna Dance Again" and "My Love Is Pink", sound like Girls Aloud outtakes, but are still two of the best tracks here, in addition to the excellent title track and another Dennis contribution in "Surprise". While no track here could be classified as a misstep, the reggae-lite of "Back Down" and the syrupy ballad "Mended By You" are two tracks that are at the very least skippable. Vocally, Amelle ably steps in for Mutya(minus the snarky charisma) and Heidi's overly mannered singing stiffens up the joint on more than one occasion. Still, I'd rank this above the overrated ANGELS WITH DIRTY FACES and on an even keel with both THREE and TALLER IN MORE WAYS. High recommendation.

Blending some classic Sugababes electro-pop-trip-hop beats with some new, lighter beats the Sugababes 5th album is aptly titled 'Change' to reflect the addition of Amelle, replacement for new solo star Mutya Buena. However the album indicates the girl's sound isn't that much 'changed' - they seem to have moved away from producing potential club tracks in favour of producing singalong hits for the radio. Another interesting note is while Heidi and Keisha's writing credits appear on nearly every tune, Amelle is only included on a handful, indicating a lot of this album was probably in progress before the Mutya/Amelle bust-up.

First single "About You Now" evokes Ashlee Simpson at the beginning and has a surprisingly catchy chorus, although it wavers on being slightly cheesy during some moments. The next 3 songs are probably the most upbeat dance tunes on the album - "Never Gonna Dance Again" & "My Love Is Pink" are both extremely poppy electro tunes while "Denial" sounds more like "About You Now".

My favourite tunes on the album probably lay in the next bunch - "Change" is the second single with another great chorus, its a good mid-tempo tune about life changes. "Back When" is probably my favourite song on the whole CD, the vocals and instrumentation are just really solid throughout, it's another mid-tempo tune that outshines "Change" in my opinion, especially when back to back. "Surprise" is another good one - the vocals by Heidi around the chorus are kind of 80's but it works, in a kind of Lily Allen fashion. "Back Down" evokes a lot of Joss Stone's stuff in a good way - another great mid-tempo song in this pack, although it gets tiresome quicker than the others.

"Mended By You" is the token sappy ballad on the album, and its not bad but it reminds me of "Change" for some reason, and isn't nearly as strong as past ballads by the girls like "Too Lost In You". For a change of pace "3 Spoons of Suga" is probably the most vintage/recognizable Sugababes song in terms of both instrumentation and tempo, similar to something like "Caught Up In The Middle", but it serves mostly as filler on this album.

"Open The Door" is one of those songs you don't really think about till later - it tends to stick in your head after listening to it, with a bit of a r n b/hip hop flavour, it's one I always forget about but actually really like. In general the girls put something totally different as the last song on their album and "Undignified" sort of fits the bill - its one of the best songs on the album as it actually sounds like some thought was put into it, and the acoustic sound is nice, but again it doesn't compare to other 'last songs' ('Maya' and 'Two Hearts' come to mind).

Overall this definitely won't go down in history as my fave Sugababes album - I think their last two in particular were really strong and as such this one sounds a bit rushed and formulaic, like they were desperate to show the world Amelle really 'is' a part of the group. However, after a few listens I've come to really like most of the songs on the album, even if they aren't as memorable or unique sounding as past efforts by the girls.

The Sugababes just keep getting better and better. This is their 5th studio album, a massive feat for a pop group. Despite the member changes, they've never lost their sparkle or their catchy tunes. I did think they fell down a bit with their Greatest Hits compilation, but have definitely redeemed themselves with this CD. "Taller In More Ways" is my favourite Sugababes album, but "Change" is ranked 2nd equal with "Three."

I would usually list my favourite song on the album as the first song I mention, but I can't decide on a favourite since I have so many.

But I guess I'll go with "Surprise" first - this is a definite favourite of mine. I actually didn't like it so much on the first couple of listens, but suddenly it just hit how amazing this track is. Clocking in at only 3 minutes 5 seconds, it packs a lot into a small amount of time. A song about an ex boyfriend calling you up out of the blue wanting to get back together, the Babes tell him to get lost. It's really catchy and 'oh oh oh' bits at the end of the choruses courtesy of the lovely Heidi are fun to sing along to.

Another favourite is "Never Gonna Dance Again" - I really hope this is going to be a single. Described as a ballad, but not really, it's more midtempo. This song is incredibly sad, about a boyfriend breaking up with his girlfriend during a slow dance, and the girlfriend decides she can never dance again because it reminds her of her ex too much. All three girls put in a strong showing in this track and I love the lyrics.

"Mended By You" is yet another highlight, another gorgeous ballad from the girls. I find the Babes have two types of ballads - they're either amazing or boring. This is the former, absolutely amazing. Despite the sad feel, the song is actually positive, about a relationship that has changed somebody for the better. One of the girls' best slow songs to date, I love Amelle's verse and the chorus.

"Denial" is a quirky little song and another favourite. I actually don't know what this song is supposed to be about, but I like it. With interesting lyrics about nature and a cool backing beat, this is a song that you'll either love or hate. I am definitely a lover of it!

"My Love Is Pink" reminds of me of a Girls Aloud song (my other favourite band), it's just like "Graffiti My Soul" or "Fling" from their new album. A song about nothing at all, this is funky with really cool lyrics and great vocals from all three girls. The chorus is loads of fun to sing along to.

"Back Down" is yet another standout track (see, there's so many!). I love this track because each Babe gets a long verse to sing and it shows off their distinct voices and personalities. The girls sing about their boyfriends in this track and what they love about men. It's extremely catchy and I adore Heidi's verse.

"About You Now" was the album's lead single and was another #1 hit for the girls in the UK. Rightly so, this is yet another favourite. I think this is possibly my favourite Babes single to date. It's sooooooooo catchy and I love the lyrics. The girls all sound amazing and the overall feel of this track is just infectious. A great comeback for the ladies.

"Open The Door" is rather like "Denial" - slower with an interesting backbeat and lyrics. It's chilled out with cool lyrics. I didn't like this at first but over time I grew to like it. I love the chorus.

The remaining tracks are good, but not outstanding. We have "Change" - the 2nd single from the album and Christmas release. I wanted "Never Gonna Dance Again" to be the 2nd single over this. But it's a nice little track, but doesn't seem to go anywhere for me. "Back When" is in the same vein, a cute track that sees the girls reminiscing about the past, but when it reaches the chorus it goes nowhere (except when they sing 'back when' - it sounds cool!). I like Heidi's parts though. "Undignified" is the same, it's the album's closer but is kind of bland - I wanted a "2 Hearts" (from Taller In More Ways) kind of ending, big and orchestral. The UK bonus track "3 Spoons Of Suga" is similar to another Babes track, "Angels With Dirty Faces" from the album of the same name - self referential and in the same style. Unfortunately, it's not nearly as good. This song is your usual party track.

My favourites are:
Surprise
Never Gonna Dance Again
Mended By You
About You Now
Back Down
(with Denial, My Love Is Pink & Open The Door close runners up)

Overall, another strong showing for the girls and it shows that Amelle fits in nicely with the group on her first full length outing with the band. They do keep getting better, I like every song on this album, some more then others but I wouldn't skip any tracks if I listened to the album in full. Keep it up girls, you're going strong!

Thankfully the girls are veering away from those insipid mid-tempo, urban-tinged beats. This is a solid, if lightweight, pop package. Nothing especially memorable, but certainly more melodic than a lot of the contemporary music out there. Here's hoping a few of these tunes get good remixes instead of the uninspired versions from previous albums. A recommended purchase.

Another solid album from the UK babes. Hole in the head is one of those songs that if you here it enough love or hate it you can't stop listening to it. Once again this trio continues to show growth with each album as well as a continuing effort to showcase vocal talents with the ballads such as with the last two tracks on this album. But....... I still say what best represents the babes are the party jams like hole in the head or In the middle. Great album.

There are very few straight pop acts I can stand, UK teenage trio Sugababes are easily among them. I fell in love with their music right from the brilliant `Overload', `Freak like me' (which I preferred to the original by Adina Howard), and `Round round'.

The babes have always stood apart from the rest, maybe it is their aloof cool, or their offbeat pop, or the fact that they write most of their songs, I don't know but they are great.

`Three' is as the name implies, their third album. It starts off with the superb catchy man-bashing `Hole in the head' with lyrics like `Oh boy do you miss me like a hole in the head', and a jerky slight Bangra feel. A UK #1.

`In the middle' is an upbeat number with off beat sounding horns and a fab bridge. A UK top 10 hit. There are other upbeat danceable songs like the quirky retro sounding `Nasty ghetto' with warbly sounding guitar.

There's the rock tinged intricately layered `Whatever makes you happy' (with a sample of the 1986 Sly Fox hit `Let's go all the way), the swirling `Situation's heavy' (with a slight 2-step feel), `A million different ways' (which also has a Bangra feel with jangling sitars), the funky R&B of `Buster' and `Twisted'. Each song is a totally different sound and feel from the other.

Then there are the beautiful ballads; The Dianne Warren penned `Too lost in you' (I usually find her ballads too cheesy and dramatic but this is just great, great electric guitar and no over-the-top vocals. It was a UK top 10), `Caught in a moment' and `Sometimes' really showcasing the girls impressive vocals.

Pop perfection!

A must buy! My favorite song on it is, Too Lost in You.

hey the album is really good plus their new single "caught in a moment" is so great but the u.s. realease would had been so much better i mean they delayed their album realese here and they didn't realese at all!! i mean the album is alright but the price was unberable and the blue one from austraila was cheaper but it was missing a lot of tracks from the great brittan realese sorry but event the hit "hole in the head" was a tremendous track no one else in the u.s. could not find the album so oh well

I herd about the Sugababes on Top of the pops (Even though i live in america) i was reading news on the latest brit popstars and i came across them about there Album Three. so i decided to Buy the album one word "WOW" its a different pop than what i listen to. Cant wait till the 4th album keep up the good work.

A solid album from a uk female trio that one day may actually make it in the US. This album shows growth as well as featuring a new member. All the tracks are good but round and round I think represents the sound that best represents what Sugababes are all about. If it wasn't for top of the pops I never would have known anything about this group. Great follow up album.

But just as good, if not better. This has 3 bonus tracks, that make this already fantastic album even better. The Sugababes are a British all girl group, with a member change (Soibhan Donaghy quit the band in 2002, replaced with Heidi Range formerly of Atomic Kitten, another British girl group), one album "One Touch" already under their belts, two UK No.1s (Freak Like Me and Round Round) and 5 Top 10 hits. This is a fantastic album, you need it if you like British pop, garage or RnB. Track rundown:

1. Freak Like Me
Gotta love this song. It's the 'Babes first single with Heidi, and she gets a massive part in this song. It has peculiar lyrics and great rocky music. 5/5
2. Blue
Not about the well known British boyband. This is a funky little number, with a catchy chorus and a nasty rap with a few swear words included in it. 5/5
3. Round Round
Very exhausted on radio here in New Zealand, but still catchy. I can still sing along to this without it getting boring. I love Heidi's slow part near the end, it just changes the mood of the song completely. 4.5/5
4. Stronger
The third single from the girls - this is slower but still full of power. The vocals on this song are amazing. 4/5
5. Supernatural
Cute song - this has funny lyrics and a catchy chorus. I love the verses they have such cool lyrics! 5/5
6. Angels With Dirty Faces
The title track. This has a cool rap in the middle shared by all three girls, and a catchy chorus. One to listen to. 5/5
7. Virgin Sexy
This is my favourite song on the album now (in my other review it's a different song). I love this, it's such a anthem for teenagers. I'm 16 and can totally relate to this song! It has teenager friendly lyrics ("If you want me, just text me") and a catchier then anything chorus. 5/5
8. Shape
This is kind of depressing, but still good. This is a ballad, with Sting on vocals in the chorus. I can't help singing along to the chorus, and the verses are cool too. 4.5/5
9. Just Don't Like This
This didn't really catch me, but it does have a powerful chorus. 3/5
10. No Man No Cry
This is catchy, and I love the "No Man, No Cry" line uttered by Keisha at the very beginning. Better then the last track. 3.5/5
11. Switch
Love this song! It has the catchiest chorus of any song on the entire album, you'll be singing along in seconds. The lyrics are kind of weird, but that's ok. My second favourite song on the album. 5/5
12. More Than A Million Miles
This was my favourite song when I first got the CD, but now I like "Virgin Sexy" and "Switch" more. But this is my third favourite. I LOVE the rap! It makes the song! The song would be totally boring without the rap. The rest of the song is boring. This gets 5 stars because of the FANTASTIC rap! 5/5
13. Breathe Easy
I don't like this - it's really bland. The worst song on the album. 2/5
14. Round Round (Alternative Mix)
A remix. I don't really like remixes at all (the only remixes I can tolerate are remixes from Blue and Atomic Kitten), so I'm not gonna rate this, cuz I didn't listen to it. NOT RATED

This is better value then the original version of it, because it has 3 bonus songs. The Sugababes rock!!!

This is such an amazing CD! I bought in when I was on vacation in London and am SO glad I did. This is one of my all time favorite CDs. The songs are great and so are the voices.

1. FREAK LIKE ME - (5/5) My favourite song on the album. It has such a good beat and I love the lyrics. It is so off the hook.

2. BLUE - (5/5) Another great song with a good message.

3. ROUND ROUND - (5/5) This one took a few listenings to get into, but once I did, I loved it.

4. STRONGER - (5/5) Another awesome pick-me-up song.

5. SUPERNATURAL- (5/5) This has a similar beat the Brandy's "What About Us?" and is on the best dance songs out there.

6. ANGELS WITH DIRTY FACES - (4/5) A good song, but not as catchy as the others.

7. VIRGIN SEXY - (4/5) A bit childish, but nevertheless, a good song.

8. SHAPE - (5/5) A super good ballad featuring Sting on it.

9. JUST DONT NEED THIS - (5/5) Another favorite. It has uch a powerful chorus.

10. NO MAN NO CRY - (5/5) Another fabulous R&B jam.

11. SWITCH - (5/5) A great dance song.

12. MORE THAN A MILLION MILES - (3/5) While the melody is nice, the chorus doesn't click. Not my faveorite track.

13. BREATHE EASY [ACOUSTIC JAM] - (3/5) Nothing specialabout this track either.

14. ROUND ROUND [ALTERNATIVE MIX] - (4/5) Just like the regulr version, but extended a lot.

So, as you can see, this CD kicks ass. I absoulutely love it, and so will you!

I really do like the sound of the Sugababes, but I feel the album is spoiled by the fact that nearly every track has disjointed, ambiguous lyrics, which at times do not make sense. I guess its hard to expect miracles, but take this for example:

"When you stare in my face
You're messin with my brain
If you try to convince me
Then you better think again
If you move to my music
The music's got to give
If It's too complicated
That's the way I want to live"

Tell me one thing that verse actually says? Its just a collection of statements.

I first listened to Sugababes while browsing the TOTP website and enjoyed a few songs of their first album, then bought teh whole thing and loved it. Afterwards they lost a member, got dropped from their label, then luckily picked up an ex-Atomic Kitten (sorta) and a new record deal, and thank god as these girls have come out with a fantastic album! Keisha, Mutya, and Heidi are 3 chicks that if they had a motto, should be "Chicks Before Dicks" as many of their songs reflect their youth, love for friends, and the typical heartbreak experienced as teens.

The album starts with 3 upbeat partyish tracks, the first single (which went to #1) "Freak Like Me" that samples Gary Numan and screams sexual independance, but teasingly. "Blue" is a slam to well...anyone you dislike, ex-bf's or gf's, enemies, friends who turned on you, whatever. Its a catchy track that disguises the hidden message of "I really hate you...". Next is "Round Round" the 2nd single (another #1) and just makes you want to get up and dance with your best friends.

The next track is part of the third single, a Double A-Side that went to #8, entitled "Stronger". Its a powerful ballad taht encourages people to make it through their hardships, that could include a message to September 11th victims. After that the album picks up with a rousing dance number, "Supernatural", reminiscent of Brandy's "What About Us?" regarding how great love is...if you can find it. After this comes the 2nd part of the "Stronger" single...the title track of the album "Angels With Dirty Faces" taht sends a message to parents that they may look at their children as angels but htey don't know what they're really up to. Another dancey track sorta, with a good chorus. After this comes the suggestive song "Virgin Sexy" taht continues with the theme of the last track. It talks about how girls want to be percieved as older and want experience.

After this we get into the home run stretch of the album starting with the amazing ballad "Shape" that samples the song of the same name by Sting, and he actually sings the chorus with them. A very different track filled with spanish-inspired guitars and deep lyrics about risks in life and love. After this is probably the weakest track on the album, "Just Don't Need This" which is probably why its a bonus track. A fairly steady track it just beats on about how the girls feel violated by older men, or just men in general. However the album boosts itself in the next two tracks, first with "No Man, No Cry" a reggae inspired song that sorta reminds me of the girl group Dream. The title of the track once again implies stickin' with your friends over your fellas is probably better. "Switch" is an amazing upbeat song that uses a unique beat and style, similar to All Saints "Ha Ha". The lyrics are great as they give girls the idea that they can take the guys role of being players and "Switching" from guy to guy.

Finally what I like to call the encore of the album comes. Starting with one of the greatest gems on the album, "More Than A Million Miles", an amazingly composed track with a bit of nu-Madonna influence that mixes western guitar and two-step beats. The lyrics are great about a girl trying to make it through the problems with her boyfriend as he becomes obssessed with something else. Then comes the stunning vocal jam "Breathe Easy" where you hear the true talent in the girls voices, matched with nothing more than a simple guitar. After all the heartbreak and tears, the girls let ya know you can Breathe Easy. Then comes the remix of "Round Round" which isn't that fab. and in my opinion...isn't necessary.

The Sugababes are an English trio that was formed way back in 1998, and have since become one of the most successful female acts in the UK. (Their most recent single, "About You Now" just went #1 in the UK.)

Overloaded: The Singles Collection is a brief - and I say brief only because their albums are definitely worth checking out - history of the group. This record serves as a great introduction to the group, giving the listener a taste of what the girls sound is like and what they're all about.

This album is packed with some great dance tracks, like the trancy "Round Round" (A UK #1 in 2002), the thumping, makes-you-wanna-strut "Red Dress," and the Gary Numan sampled "Freak Like Me." They also show off their amazing vocal harmonies on ballads like "Too Lost In You" and "Stronger." They even manage an upbeat empowerment song as well, the Dallas Austin penned "Ugly."

The obligatory new tracks are "Easy" - which was released as the promotional single (and charted in the UK top 10) and "Good To Be Gone." Both are great upbeat, dance tracks that you can't help but move your body along to.

My favourite tracks on Overloaded are "Push The Button" (Produced by Dallas Austin) and "Hole In The Head," both of which I love to dance around to with the volume cranked up quite high. I also enjoyed the inclusion of their early singles "Run For Cover" and "Overload" as well.

The track listing is as follows:
1. Freak Like Me (UK#1, 2002)
2. Round Round (UK #1, 2002)
3. Red Dress
4. In The Middle
5. Stronger
6. Shape
7. Overload
8. Good To Be Gone
9. Caught In A Moment
10. Ugly
11. Easy
12. Too Lost In You
13. Run For Cover
14. Hole In The Head (UK #1, 2003)
15. Push The Button (UK #1, 2005)

My only complaint is that they left off the fabulous ballad "Follow Me Home" which was released as a single in the summer of 2006. Because of it's low chart position however, I understand the reasoning for leaving it out.

The accompanying lyric book could have been presented better as well, with a possible band history or pictures of the individual singles sleeves. There is no mention in the thank yous of the two former members of the band, Siobhán Donaghy (who left in 2001), or co-founding member Mutya Buena (who departed in 2005). You only know that they were there if you read the writing credits, or have researched the bands history like I have.

Presentation aside, Overloaded is a great album to own, especially if you like female pop groups, or pop music in general. It's great to throw on in the car to sing along to, or in the background at home.

I listen this cd when I know already the more recent album of Sugababes...it's a good cd but I prefer "Angels with dirty faces" and "Three"...I have "Overloaded", "Taller in more ways" and "Change" too! My favourite album is "Three"!
Anyway this album is the début of Sugababes singers...for who like these three girls I suggest to buy this album!

This CD is one of the few CDs that I can listen to in full without skipping ahead to the next song. Some songs are more catching than others, several ones have been in the hit-parade and will have you singing along or "tapping" keeping the beat, but all the songs in this CD are good, pleasant to listen to, danceable but not necessarily only dance pieces. There's beat, there's feeling, there's musicality and some pretty well-written pieces as far as lyrics go. Definitely a winner.

I think this album would be the best one and be my favorite CD.

I have "One Touch" the album by Sugababes and it is great. You will be so hook once you first listen to it. They have upbeat tracks like "Same Old Story" and "Run for Cover." This album gets 5 + stars from me. I really do love this album. It is music everyone can groove to. Listen to the preview tracks listed above from Amazon. I'm sure you will enjoy it. And for everyone in the United States; the album will be release on June 26, 2001. ...However, have fun and hope you like it! -David H. ...

i just bought the album about 2 months ago,and i'm hearing it constanly,they are really great and all the songs are too, despite the fact that they're only 15 or 16 year old, this album is just heavy and i really mean it, they're so sweet,yet so sexy.It's really good if you just had enough with ordinary pop bands and other manufactured bands coz they are different and individuals, the girls really can sing!i promise you won't regret buying their album.

I was living in germany many years ago, that was the first time that i listened Sugababes... After many travels and diferents countries that i have lived, this groups just makes me feel that I am in Berlin again... I love Sugababes

This is a very good introduction to a very good british gisrl band. I prefer Girls Aloud however since they tend to be funnier and more inventive.

So if your looking for something like Rihanna or Beyounce but with additional flavor this is a great band. Hitting the charts over in Europe it did well. I like the last track the most since that is their number 1 song according to me the others are good but boy the last one is good even the music the video to it is good. : ) It is catchy.

Girls Aloud might exist to continually shock us with the audacity of their off-the-wall tunes, but the Sugababes fulfill our need for something truly subdued and sexy all at once. Their singles are all neatly executed, their singing never more than a step above breathy, and yet they have been hailed as the hippest girl group of the noughties. Unsurprisingly, their 2006 best-of set, "Overloaded", is their finest release to date. The singles demonstrate everything great about them- a flair for edge, a knack for the mainstream- but the lesser album tracks have always catered to dull R&B and urban retreads. "Overloaded" simply weeds out the dodgy spots and tumbles onto strength after strength. It's incredible to see their growth over the span of six years, from the jazzy garage fumble of debut hit "Overload" to the guitar glam of new track "Good To Be Gone". They've broken the pop mold by producing excellent singles that continue to grow over time, not repeat past formulas. A few moments, like the mash-up classic "Freak Like Me" or the gritty electro-ska of "Hole In the Head", indicate an almost indie edge, while "Push the Button" and "In the Middle" are catering to the dance fans. Best yet is new single "Easy", a lusty and positively unsubtle number that delves into an insatiable, addictive chorus. As if they're not already breaking the bank in terms of hits, if the new tracks are any indication, they're still on a roll.

Most best of albums have songs that make you say why is this song on here? This album was done the right way by having the hits that made them big. However when it comes to the songs they chose from OneTouch, they probably should have included the title songe one touch from their debut album & Follow Me Home (one of their best ballads)from their last album. Their Newest song Easy is a song that shows their contiuing growth as well as their ability to maintain the sugababe sound through another lineup change. Another song that is a must listen to, would have to be Good to be gone--- great vocals,cool sound. Overall this album is a must have if you are a sugababes fan and a good starter album for the casual listener. By the way isn't it weird how close Amelle sounds to Mutya !

So the latest Sugababes album is here. It's becoming a regular occurance, that at the end of every year the trio release a new album.

Their previous album, Change, was rather a disappointment. At the time (check back through my reviews for my take on it), I loved it, but over time the album has become boring. Thankfully, Catfights & Spotlights is a lot better. Yes, this might not be a popular opinion but I genuinelly like this album. The standout tracks make the whole CD for me.

So what are these tracks?

Well, my favourite song on the album is the ballad "Sunday Rain." This song is just gorgeous. The Babes do a cracker ballad, every album they've released has had a couple of good ballads and this is no exception. "Sunday Rain" has a retro feel to it, which makes you feel like you're in the 50's or 60's. It has creative lyrics ("standing on the platform, waiting for the train, watching the weather change") and a really catchy chorus for a ballad. The highlight of the CD and my favourite track for sure.

Another standout is the fan's favourite track, "Every Heart Broken." I have to admit, this track took awhile to grow on me, but now I adore it, it's one of my favourites. The lyrics are incredibly cool ("when he said cut, I took it literally") and quite dark, considering the track used to be called "Murder One." It's also really catchy and the girls sound awesome. I hope this is a single.

The album's official closing track, "Can We Call A Truce" is another highlight. It's another Babes ballad and it was actually my favourite on the first listen of the album. The girls talk more then sing in this track and yet again, the lyrics are top notch. I absolutely love this song, it's another favourite.

Another track that seems to have favour with the fans is "Side Chick." I find this track rather interesting. Sometimes I love it, sometimes I hate it. It's really catchy and Keisha sounds great on it.

I know it's not an official track, but I adore "She's Like A Star" with Taio Cruz. It's just such a cute track. Taio sounds great and the Babes complement him nicely. It's a short little track, but it works.

"Beware" is another cool track, lead by Amelle. It's another shorter track but packs a powerful punch, it's really catchy.

I must make a mention of the album's lead single, "Girls." What in the world were the girls thinking when they released this? It's their worst single yet. It's so boring! If the album failed, it was because of this song.

This album isn't nearly as strong as the new Girls Aloud album, Out Of Control, but it's still a fine offering from the Babes. I would have given it 4 stars, but I adore "Sunday Rain," "Every Heart Broken," "Can We Call A Truce" and "She's Like A Star" too much to do that.

Despite just being released at the end of 2008, Catfights and Spotlights - the Sugababes' 6th studio album - has already been scrapped for additional promotion via tours / singles, etc...which says something about the quality of this disc. After reading some slightly more negative reviews, I decided to give the disc a spin anyway and honestly enjoyed what I was listening to - perhaps because I'm a long-time fan of the girls. On the flip side though, it does make sense as to why the album will receive no further promotion - it's very generic sounding, yet the tunes that actually do stand out are almost a bit too far from typical Sugababes songs to really bother investing record label dollars into. Additionally don't be fooled by the title - much like Britney Spears' new release 'Circus', the title perhaps refers more to the 'babes media perceptions rather than the content on the album.

To recap the album - it kicks off with 'The Girls', the first (poorly performing) single, a 70s-influenced number which is very catchy in terms of the actual instruments, but kind of lacking in clever / interesting lyrics and arrangement. 'You On A Good Day' continues on the retro-flavoured vibe with a 60s girl group type tune, one of the best on the album. 'No Can Do', the second single off the album, goes back to the 70s in a Jackson 5-esque soul number.

'Hanging On A Star' is oddly reminiscent of early 2K group S Club 7 in terms of being a generic Brit pop tune. In contrast, 'Side Chick' sounds more like classic Sugababes with a bit of an urban, if not more generic flare this time around. 'Unbreakable Heart' is one of the better mid-tempo / ballad type songs that echoes the title track of the girls' last album 'Change' although the chorus kind of tempers the more interesting verse arrangements.

'Sunday Rain' channels a bit of the 1920s-style jazzy soul singer as well as some of the better Sugababes ballads of past ('Honestly', 'Too Lost In You') but feels overproduced / synthetic on this collection. 'Every Heart Broken' is a bit of a departure from regular Sugababes fare, with tons of strings and piano rather than electro-sounds, but again, still manages to come off as a bit bland here. 'Beware' legitimately has a creepy music bed to it that is completely distracting from actually being able to consider this a good song.

'Nothin's As Good As You' is one of my better-liked songs on the album, sort of like a stripped down version of a lot of the girls' singles ('About You Now' etc.) It's nothing particularly mind-blowing, but it's definitely one of the catchier, more pleasant-sounding songs on the album. 'Sound of Goodbye' is probably my favourite ballad on the album although it's not as good as some of my fave past ballads ('Undignified', 'Two Hearts') on the last few albums the girls have released. It does have some more interesting vocals that don't feel quite so processed though. 'Can We Call A Truce' is very American hip hop sounding - I agree with comments that it echoes Timbaland-styled tunes. It's not super, but it's relatively catchy with interesting strings.

Finally the two bonus tracks are a live/acoustic version of the girls' last mega-hit 'About You Now' and another song where they basically just have some guest vocals on another artists' track. Translation = forgettable.

My general bottom line would be if you're a consistent fan of the girls as I am, this album won't disappoint too much - but if you're someone that only picks up their albums for their singles, this is probably skippable until their 7th album comes out in 09. Still catchy, but not as interesting as usual unfortunately.

Not their best material, but good enough for repeat listening when there is a lack of other compelling releases. Lead singer has a great voice, I didn't even notice lack of Mutya.

1. Girls- the first single is cool, but a needed to listen to it a couple of times to start to like it.7/10
2. You on a Good Day- Another cool song, but compared to sugababes' previous stuff it is only generic, but is best than "Hanging on a Star".6/10
3. No Can Do- Boring song, it never could be the 2nd single, after the almost failure of "girls" that reached only at #8, they could choose better.3/10
4. Hanging on a Star- Pure generic song, skip it,the worst song on the album.0/10
5. Side Chick- The best song on the entire album. It remembers me of Open the Door" from their previous album "Change". It turns out of the "old" feeling of the album, but if it wasn't there this album would't be complete.10/10
6. Unbreakable Heart- My 3rd favourite. The beginning is strange, but the chorus is amazing.10/10
7. Sunday Rain- It's just OK, it's not a great song, but it's better than others.7/10
8. Every Heart Broken- The beginning of this song is amazing,the lyrics are beautiful and depressive, but when the chorus starts... I really expected more from this song, because it was the most commented, everybody was saying that this is the best Sugababes song and the lyrics were so fantastic... but the change of key in the chorus is a total mistake and the song lost all of it's beauty.5/10
9. Beware- Anoter OK song. the chorus have a strange rythmyn that doesn't seem to fit in the song. 6/10
10. Nothing's as Good as You- It's better than the other, but it isn't their style. 7/10
11. Sound Of Goodbye- This song is good, the lyrics are cool, but the chorus could be better. 8/10
12. Can We Call a Truce- The 2nd best song of the album, it gets out of the "old" vibe too, it sound too americanized to me, this song could do some success in the U.S. 10/10
13. About You Now (Acoustic)- Not as good as the original.3/10
14. She's Like a Star (feat Taio Cruz)- This is really Taio Cruz feat. Sugababes, and they just sing a small part (taking in consideration this song is just 2:46 long). It could be bigger, and the Sugababes could sing more on it. 5/10
Overall- 6/10. This is not they at their best, but after the great success they had with at least their 3 previous albums (Three, Taller in More Ways and Change) I would expect a lot more from this, it just worth the way because of "Side Chick" and "Can We Call a Truce".

1. Girls - 1/10 terrible song, terrible single choice, they must have been high when they chose this as a single, shouldn't even be on the album, and the lyrics are horrible too.
2. You On A Good Day - 9/10, I hate 60's influenced songs, but this is a great song and the chorus really stands out.
3. No Can Do - 2/10, boring and blah song, bad 2nd single choice.
4. Hanging On A Star - 7/10, a mildly enetertaing up tempo track.
5. Side Chick - 10/10, ace song, sounds similar to Robyn's "Handle Me," probably because of the same songwriter on both songs.
6. Unbreakable Heart - 8/10, pretty great, but not amazing, but I like the production values on the song.
7. Sunday Rain - 8/10, good 50's inspired song with a cool chorus.
8. Every Heart Broken - 10/10, best song on the album, should have been the first single, it's that amazing. The lyrics are sly, the song is catchy as hell, and the production on it is beautiful.
9. Beware - 8/10, a different sounding song, but oddly unique and entertaining.
10. Nothing's As Good As You - 6/10, it's ok, but pretty forgetable.
11. Sound Of Goodbye - 7/10, better than the last track, but nothing breathtaking
12. Can We Call A Truce - 8/10, good song, not as great as some of the others on the album, but it's a pretty song and a smidge depressing.

Bonus Tracks:

13. About You Now (Acoustic Version) - 6/10, not as good as the original version.
14. She's Like A Star - 1/10, BLAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

This is the 1st song released from their second album "Angels With Dirty Faces". It went straight to No.1 in the UK.
Their remix of Adina Howard's classic song makes you wanna get up and freak out!

As a loyal fan of the Sugababes and their music for the last few years, the initial listen to the first three seconds of "Change" was a bittersweet moment: on one hand, their trademark edgy (in pop standards), inimitable cool is almost obliterated and replaced by a fresh-off-the-manufacturing plant re-interpretation of slick, polished "feistiness"...but dammit, saccharine as it may be, Sugababes haven't sounded more unabashedly instant and catchy (the track I'm referring to, of course, is the ubiquitous-in-the-UK "About You Now," one of the best pop singles of 2007 and probably during the 2000's in general). The appeal or the dynamic (if you want to call it that), of a trademark Sugababes hit is, in most cases, one that always exudes untouchable, classy aloofness and effortless sexiness that shows how there is more than just vocal talent lying beneath their unassuming facades. Sugababes' "x-factor," their blueprint for success, has been the fact that they always manage to conjure up the hippest-sounding dance-pop music without looking like they even give a damn (and sounding it, too). This new-millennium attitude towards making pop music has been the de facto aesthetic for making edgier, supposedly more sophisticated pop. As a well-known saying goes, the way Sugababes just gloriously have been as a dance-pop act is that they're "often imitated, never duplicated."

"Change" is a solid collection chock full of radio-ready pop hits, but why isn't it the instant classic that it should be? Many blame the loss of the band's center of "attitude," their "x-factor," Mutya Buena, as the cause for their more confectionary approach to their music this time around. Although she is surely missed, it can't just be because of that. Amelle Berrabah, the new 'Babe, has a voice that's just as raspy and solid, if not more clear-cut and straightforward than Buena's. The impression that I get from this album is that Sugababes have pegged themselves at a disadvantage for what could be the Achilles heel to any mainstream act with at least some sort of promising talent to begin with: they've sold their souls to the record label bureaucracy and have compromised their integrity as artists in order to get more pop (hey, someone's gotta make money). Okay, maybe that's a little much to accuse, but fans would agree that this is their most bubblegum-sounding album yet.

Not to say that they've never been pop, it's just that they seemed to have just given up on more ambitious, forward-thinking ideas in their music for "Change" as they have before and seemed to just try to consolidate their strengths in hopes of making a passable Sugababes album and a passable pop album in general. For a Sugababes fan or someone that knows of Sugababes, "passable" doesn't just cut it. We need something to pride ourselves as fans on, we need the same Sugababes that has always tested the boundaries of contemporary dance-pop. In "Change," they do succeed in many levels, but within every new release, the discriminating Sugababes fan has always come to expect more from them. I've read many reviews that said that the album iss solid, but it fails to come up with anything completely new and different not only for Sugababes, but for pop music in general because for this record they seem to have just looked through their back catalog and make more anemic carbon copies of what they have done in the past, and I completely agree. Sugababes have always been known to shake up the pop game with every new album. I'm not saying they have to reinvent the wheel all the time, but at least showing a little more promise of stretching out even further into more unchartered territory than they have in the past would have been more like them. You got the usual suspects, for example, there's the Xenomania floor-filler ("My Love Is Pink" - hell, one could say they even ripped off Girls Aloud in this one), the heart-string-tugging mid-tempo cuts (the unnecessary "Back When" and the "Ace Reject" re-hash "Never Gonna Dance Agai," the reggae-ish track ("Back Down"), and the wannabe trip-hop ballad, awash with lots of strings and supposed heartbreak melancholy ("Mended By You"). It's all getting tired at this point. What I'm getting to is that "Change" is the kind of album that would have been superb had this been Sugababes' first, but since this is their fifth studio album, they seemed to have gone to autopilot mode and just make music they're comfortable with doing. Dare I say this is their most middle-of-the-road effort yet? Fortunately enough, they've got a diverse-enough discography to recreate, so they're not heading into Atomic Kitten territory just yet. You saw the signs of something like this on "Taller In More Ways," so I guess it just had to come to "Change" being their poppiest, but blandest of efforts.

...On the bright side, "Change" is easily their most accessible album yet. Alone, it's got some fine pop songs that would be the envy of many dance-pop artists all around the world. Melodically, this is their richest yet. No obtuse harmonies: just straight-up, easy-on-the-ears tunes that could warm up the dimmest of rainy London days. Whether or not this is the well-masterminded work of their handlers or Sugababes' talent and knack for making great pop music, it doesn't even matter. The songs are eclectic and appealing enough on the ears that you can't help but go along to the catchiness of the tracks. And, knowing that it is Sugababes singing it, they at least have maintained a sense of class, dignity, and sophistication to carry off every single one of the tracks with panache that would have made many other pop groups crumble had they tried doing it themselves. So, in other words, even though Sugababes sound more and more like fembots that feel they have to live up to a reputation instead of the warm-blooded (or cold-blooded, depending on how you judge their delicious, man-eating tunes), hard-edged dance-pop act that is rough enough around the edges to set them apart from most puppeted, manufactured dimwits for pop groups, they still sound pretty damn good. Besides Girls Aloud, I don't see many other pop acts achieve the kind of consistency in quality with their track record, so I guess here's to hoping their next one finds them more hungry for something new! "Change" isn't always bad, but it isn't perfect either.

Having been a fan of the Babes way back when Siobhan was in the group. I've seen the girls grow with each new album that they've released from "Angles with Dirty Faces" to "Three" to "Taller In More Ways" and now with "Change".

The title is very appropriate as you hear a change in their music this time around. You still have the pop, electro sounds that the girls have been rocking like on "About You Now" and "Never Gonna Dance Again". But they also have a few more ballads this time around. They work out pretty well and the girls writing some more on the cd. At least one of the members writing on 9 out of the 12 songs on the cd.

Never Gonna Dance Again
Denial
My Love is Pink
Change
Backdown
Mended By You
3 Spoons of Suga
Open The Door
Undignified

While you can hear the turn in direction of their music..it kind of has a more soulful, 70s flair to it. Even with the album cover you can see that they have more refined girl group look to them.

But they still keep the sound and edge that makes the Sugababes so successful. Already a smash hit in the UK and other countries (Change is No. 1 there and the single "About You Now" as of the last charting week is number 1 for a 3rd consecutive week)

Love the sound, look and feel of Change. I'm very eager to see what song gets released next on the cd hopefully "Never Gonna Dance Again" or "Undignified" (a lovely ballad).

this review is for the import version of Change.