Dressed in thigh-high leather boots and big hair, American Idol runner-up, Katharine McPhee sits with her legs spread on her first album cover.
McPhee's self-titled debut album is confusing and immature. The 22-year-old has a lot of growing up to do before she can become the next Kelly Clarkson.
The album definitely shows she is struggling between being a fun and sassy college girl and an adult. Some tracks are mature ballads, while others are girlie-club hits.
While an album should have variety, it should not sound like a homemade mix. It was like listening to Celine Dion, Jessica Simpson and even Britney Spears all in one album.
The worst is the silly, unnecessary track, "Open Toes." Yes, we all know that the four-inch heel Steve Madden open toe shoes were very "in" this season, but there is no need for a song about it.
The lyrics, "too cute in my open toes, never too many open toes, a girl needs plenty open toes," are redundant and ridiculous. Maybe it would be acceptable on a Hilary Duff album, but not for someone who is clearly out of high school.
This song seemed as if McPhee's attempt to produce a club hit - one that all the girls can get ready to. Instead, it sounded like a Payless commercial, advertising a special on open-toe shoes.
Another girlie anthem, "Over It," McPhee's first single off the album, is mediocre. The song lacks the truth found in the songs of more established artists, such as Christina Aguilera. There is no punch, and it is a weak attempt to get back at boys.
Managers should have advised McPhee to release one of her stronger ballads first. As veteran Jessica Simpson showed, releasing a song with sex appeal over one with impressive vocals does not work. When Simpson released "Irresistible" as the first single off her second album, the result was tragic.
McPhee should have sent out "Home" as her first single. It shows real emotion and showcases her voice. With a more mature sound, it is age-appropriate and could have shown fans that this Idol is here to stay.
"Ordinary World" and "Better Off Alone" are also two more mature tracks. Clearly, there were other options McPhee could have chosen.
There is hope for the album, and listeners will see that she has promise; however, McPhee needs to get rid of the 41-year-old boyfriend, accept that she is 22, and mature on her own time.
Erika Gee can be reached at gee.37@osu.edu.
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