Scattered Spice

Oh Sporty Spice, where have you gone?

If you're expecting Spice Girls-esque poppiness, this album might disappoint you.

In general, this album sounds slick, well produced, and very different from...well, the Spice Girls.

It also sounds a bit confused. Mel's all over the place, crooning heartfelt ballads one minute and screeching the next. The tracks switch suddenly from pop to rock to R&B without giving the listener a chance to switch gears.

Mel C should have asked Geri if she could borrow, Schizophonic, and use it for her album title too.

But fear not Mel fans, there are some songs that are catchy enough to, well, catch onto the charts.

If you were turned off by the first single "Goin' Down," you should know that it isn't the strongest track on the album and you'll probably like most of the other songs.

There's some fun songs, good ballads and dance numbers which are more pleasant than her louder, distorted tracks.

The title track, "Northern Star," is a melancholy, calming ballad. It's the best song on the album and also makes for good staring out your window and pining for someone music.

The mellow and slightly folksy "Be The One," is also soothing, airy and pleasant.

Another catchy tune is "Suddenly Monday," it's bouncy and fun and just a general good-mood song that has single possibilities.

And dance fans, there just might be something on this album for you too. "I Turn To You," has dance club remix written all over it. This song might pop up at your school dance or dance club in the future.

On the downside, some songs are a tad too cheesy when you pay attention to the lyrics.

"I couldn't live without my phone. You don't even have a home," a line from "If That Were Me," may cause eye-rolling. Mel is supposedly very concerned about homelessness which is the premise for this song. Good cause, cheesy song.

But, congratulations Mel for being brave enough to branch out and try something new. There are some songs that just might turn Sporty into Solo-star Spice.

If you're curious about Mel, or if you're in the mood for bopping around or humming along with a sentimental chorus, this album is worth picking up.

Track Listing 1. Go (3.39) 2. Northern Star (4.41) 3. Goin' Down (3.35) 4. I Turn To You (5.49) 5. If That Were Me (4.31) 6. Never Be The Same Again - featuring Lisa Left Eye Lopez (4.52) 7. Why (5.27) 8. Suddenly Monday(2.36) 9. Ga Ga (3.50) 10.Be The One (3.35) 11.Closer (5.41) 12.Feel The Sun (5.02)		Album rating You Review it! Rate the Melanie C. album (0-5) 0 1 2 3 4 5 The results so far