Sauce

Ricki-Lee made her big break in 2004 in the second series of Australian Idol, and since has released her debut solo album with phenomenal success. Two gold ARIA awards and three chart-topping singles under her belt, it’s no surprise that Ricki-Lee also became a part of the Young Divas – their first single hitting the top of the charts, going double platinum within a few months of release, and still currently remaining in the charts.

Her second album Brand New Day, Ricki-Lee worked closely with producers from around the world, with each song representing her journey in life, relationships, and the music industry over the past three years.

Her first single Can’t Touch It sets off the album, successfully incorporating a fun, positive, and empowering feminine vibe. With a very catchy beat and great flowing lyrics, this is a fun and flirty song to get you up off the seat! It was a great song to start the album! But why is it that listening to the remainder of the album leads to a huge sense of monotony? It may be that this album isn’t an expansion of her potential as an artist, or is staying within the safe boundaries of previous achievements. She may have aimed to turn the pages in her career, but I fail to hear the comparative differences in her new work.

It is fortunate that the songs have a happy, mellow feel to them, and are great to listen to, because, quite frankly, it was a huge let down which nearly put me to sleep with the rest of the boring diva crap … it’s getting old!

LISA HOWELL