Macy Gray is an artist who has always marched to the beat of her own drum. Known for her unconventional and distinctive style, Gray has gained a devoted fan base over the years for her kooky and offbeat personality as well as her raspy and whiskey-soaked vocals, which have been described as an acquired taste. Gray first gained widespread fame with the release of her debut album, "On How Life Is," in 1999, which spawned the hit single "I Try" and earned Gray a Grammy award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.

Her last album, "Big," received mixed reviews as Gray worked with contemporary R&B artists to create a polished and mainstream sound. "The Sellout," Gray's latest release, is a return to form that showcases her quirks and personality while still experimenting with different sounds.

Overview

"The Sellout" is a diverse album that gives the impression of a Macy Gray variety show. It includes a mix of acoustic, funk, and pop sounds, resulting in an eclectic and unpredictable listening experience. While some tracks excel, others are weaker and may not appeal to all listeners.

Highlights

Several tracks on "The Sellout" stand out as highlights of the album. "Beauty in the World" and "Let You Win" are simple and stripped-down, featuring catchy acoustic guitar melodies and Gray's soulful vocals. "That Man" imagines Gray as the leader of a girl group and has a retro and playful vibe. "The Comeback" updates the smooth sound of '70s quiet storm and showcases Gray's vocal range and control.

Lowlights

Unfortunately, not all tracks on "The Sellout" are as successful. "Lately" is an aggressive and beat-driven track that doesn't suit Gray's style as well as other tracks on the album. The collaboration with Velvet Revolver on "Kissed It" is unlikely and sounds like a strange fusion of Gary Glitter and Katy Perry. These tracks may be less enjoyable for some listeners.

Sappy Moments

"The Sellout" also includes several overly sappy and schmaltzy tracks that may be difficult for some listeners to appreciate. "Real Love" is the most cloying of these, with lyrics that are overly sentimental and romantic. The lead single, "Beauty in the World," is also saccharine, with its call to "shake your booty boys and girls, for the beauty in the world." These tracks may be a turn-off for listeners who prefer a more grounded and realistic portrayal of love and relationships.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Macy Gray's "The Sellout" is a diverse and eclectic album that showcases the artist's unique personality and quirks. While it includes some standout tracks, it also has weaker moments and may not appeal to all listeners due to its sappy and schmaltzy moments. Overall, it is a solid release that demonstrates Gray's artistic range and creativity.

https://open.spotify.com/album/5xvZSf0307nc62BNkMESPe