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Coming off of major success from her 2007 self-titled debut, Jordin Sparks is back for round two in an effort to beat
the infamous sophomore slump with her new record, Battlefield. Best known for her upbeat personality, catchy pop anthems, and
strong vocals, this new release pushes the boundaries to a more personal level while still maintaining the adrenaline and appeal she displayed
with her debut two years ago.
If one thing's for sure, radio will love this album. First single "Battlefield" was penned and produced by hit maker Ryan Tedder from
OneRepublic and was at number thirteen in Top 40 airplay at press time. Jordin also worked once again with songwriter, musician, and worship
artist Christa Black on the track slow-tempo "Was I The Only One," another potential explosive radio hit (Black wrote "God Loves Ugly"
from Jordin Sparks). Lyrically, Battlefield seems to dive to much greater depths than its predecessor, especially when it comes to
the ups and downs of relationships. "No Parade," a standout track on the record, laments a broken relationship while "It Takes More" finds
Jordin refusing to be taken advantage of. On another positive note, Battlefield manages to avoid the trap of keeping all of the
good songs at the beginning of the record and throwing whatever was left over to the last few tracks, as album closers "Faith" and "The Cure"
are both well-written cuts with undeniably Christian themes.
When it comes down to it, Battlefield is a well-produced record, which is often hard to say when talking about the pop and
R&B genre. Jordin Sparks has certainly grown and become more creative now that her American Idol days are well in her past.
Despite monotonous tracks here and there, and a few less allusions to God than ideal, it looks like it's time to add another solid pop album to
your music library.
- Review date: 7/19/09, written by Logan Leasure of Jesusfreakhideout.com
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Jordin Sparks is back with her sophomore project,
Battlefield. Armed and ready to take on the musical world, this teenage singer is a positive role model in a
world dominated by young people void of moral substance. With Battlefield, Sparks solidifies her place as
a driving force in the entertainment industry while also maintaining her position as a young woman of integrity.
Lead single "Battlefield" wonders why love is a challenge and offers an apology for unnecessary drama. "It Takes More"
finds Sparks setting her standards high for a potential love interest, standing firm and refusing to compromise her beliefs.
The danceable "Emergency (911)" questions an unfaithful boyfriend and refuses to accept excuses while the quiet ballad "Was
I the Only One" questions the complications of a romance gone awry. Battlefield is laden with R&B grooves,
funky beats, and smart pop sensibilities, positioning Sparks for extraordinary Top 40 radio success.
- Lauren Summerford of Jesusfreakhideout.com
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Record Label: Jive Records
