Original American Idol winner Kelly Clarkson had slipped off the radar after attempting to take on a more rock vibe on 2007's "My December." Now, on her fourth studio album, “All I Ever Wanted,” the 26-year-old singer returns to the pop sound that made her famous.
Lead single "My Life Would Suck Without You" broke the record for the largest leap in the Billboard Hot 100, when it jumped from #97 to #1. The song's catchy lyrics and pop beat guide Clarkson into a much needed comeback. While most of the songs follow a similar pattern, others explore various musical venues.
"I Want You," for example, has a fun bouncy beat reminiscent of the '60s that definitely stands out as a favorite. Clarkson tries out her rock side harder than ever in the edgy "Whyyawannabringmedown." Whereas tunes like "Save You" show her softer side with beautiful lyrics and piano accompaniment.
The only disappointment is some tracks lack of originality. The beginning of "If I Can't Have You" sounds a little too much like Miley Cyrus single "Fly On The Wall." And "Already Gone" easily brings to mind Beyoncé's "Halo."
Despite these, Clarkson still pulls the album off. Teaming up with pop sensation Katy Perry, new American Idol judge Kara DioGuardi and others to co-write tracks, "All I Ever Wanted" contains relatable and likable songs.
A deluxe version of the album has also been released, featuring two more decent songs as well as "Making of" videos of the lead single video and album, plus the official video for "My Life Would Suck Without You."
Overall, Clarkson hits all the right notes in a CD that guarantees to remind the music industry and fans who she is and that she is here to stay. "All I Ever Wanted" still might not be as good as 2004’s "Breakaway," but it is definitely a notable attempt.
Grade: A-
According to a 
