Mariah Carey is back from the dark side, and it's time for fans of R&B infused power ballads to rejoice. In fine voice, Carey kicks off Charmbracelet (so named because "life is like a charm bracelet that you keep adding to") with the aptly titled "Through the Rain", a thrilling testament to her new-found personal equilibrium which continues in a suitably breathy vein. Adding an early 90s hip-hop aesthetic to the traditional Carey formula, "Boy", featuring Cam'Ron and "You Got Me", featuring Jay Z, are filled with muted drum-rolls and tight, tingling guitar loops. "My Saving Grace" opens with dramatic piano and Hammond licks but certainly isn't an "I Will Survive" anthem. If she has come through the rain, Carey is obviously still feeling fragile. But she does do the rescued and vulnerable persona quite well. -- Ruby Tuesday
Track Listing
Through The Rain Boy (I Need You) The One Yours You Got Me I only Wanted Clown My Saving Grace You Had Your Chance Lullaby Irresistible (West Side Connection) Subtle Invitation Bringin' On The Heartbreak Sunflowers for Alfred Roy Through The Rain
