Review 1 of 2

waldodio writes:

4of 5 Stars

The best thing about this album is that it rocks! There are a lot of truly enjoyble rocking moments here, with some excellent lead guitar work. Ms. Etheridge attacks subject matter both existential and temporal, and addresses both intelligently. Sure the whole thing is infused with a little too much emotional angst, like a Michael Bolton Christmas carol, but that's her MO. At least she lightens up a little with Threesome, which, in contrast to what most homophobes will probably think, decries having a threesome in favor of her monogamous relationship. As a gay man I love M.E. because, like all of us, she's a survivor, and shows, despite all the hate and stupidity out there we can not only persevere, but prosper.

Jan 9, 2008 10:11:27

Review 2 of 2

Coreyoke writes:

5of 5 Stars

Melissa Etheridge won an Oscar last year for I Need To Wake Up, her brilliant song from An Inconvenient Truth. Her first studio album proves that she has indeed done just that. "The Awakening" is quite simply Melissa's masterpiece. I don't think I'm exaggerating calling this her Nebraska, or her Pet Sounds, or even her Abbey Road. The only difference is that I like this album better. This is a concept album which details Melissa's journey to become a "star", finding love, fighting for acceptance, and fighting for equality and for the Earth itself. Melissa proves time and time again on this album that you can say something deep and important in a song and not have to sacrifice melody. Despite the importance of this album, there is also some fun as well. "Message To Myself" and "Threesome" are both radio friendly and fun. Perhaps the biggest potential single on the album is the amazing "California", ("come rescue me, California, I am almost free") talks about her heading for stardom and leaving her small town of Leavenworth Kansas. "The Kingdom Of Heaven" defies any description that I am capable of except to say that it is beyond powerful and contains an amazing guitar solo by her brilliant lead guitarist Philip Sayce. The album ends with one of Melissa's best songs and will be a definite staple of her live show. "What Happens Tomorrow" is lyrically and melodically perfect. This is an album that Melissa has asked people to listen to from beginning to end, and I strongly recommend it. It may change the way you see the World. So if you've never bought a Melissa Etheridge CD, this is definitely the one to buy. And please, be sure to prepare yourself for the awakening.

Sep 27, 2007 02:23:29