Madonna

Ray Of Light

Absolutely Beautiful Album from Madonna

Review Score:

(10/10)
When I first heard "Frozen" and "Ray of Light" back in 1998, I wasn't sure what to make of Madonna's new musical direction. I had grown up with the Madonna who did "I'll Remember" and "Take A Bow". However,"The Power of Goodbye" changed my mind and I knew I had to get this album. And what a breath of fresh air it was in the pop world (and to me). Each song is very earthy and stands on its own.
Drowned World/Substitute For Love: I absolutely love this song, as it provides an excellent intro to the album. Its earthiness and musical spectrum provide a beautiful palette for the listener. And after much quiet introspection it has an explosive (to some degree) climax
Swim: One of the album's best songs, there's a lot going on here. Absolutely perfect with its instrumentation and textures.
Ray of Light: A hugely important dance track from Madonna. While I appreciate it's impact, it's never been one of my favorites, but the video is spectacular
Candy Perfume Girl: I suppose this one has an odd title and lyrics, but the music is incredible
Skin: an interesting, flawless uptempo number. As repetive as it sounds, every song is noteworthy for its textures and musical subtleties
Nothing Really Matters: The last single from this album unfortunately flopped. The odd video probably didn't help, but this song is quite good, and is lyrically similar to something Madonna may have done in the mid-90s
Sky Fits Heaven: Another superb uptempo song with nice lyrics

Shanti/Ashtangi: this one is very unusual, with Indian lyrics I think. The music is worth the listen, though
Frozen: ahhhh, who doesn't remember this beautiful first single. This song was the album's biggest hit (in America) and it's easy to see why. The music and Madonna's traditional "mmmmmmmm"-ing envelope you as you listen.
The Power of Goodbye: This absolutely perfect, underperforming song is one of my favorite Madonna songs ever. With thoughtful lyrics conveying sadness, pain, and hope, this one is perfect. And the video, of course, was too.
To Have and Not To Hold: once again, there is a lot going on here. This song is sort of a paradox in itself.
Little Star: This is a song written for Lourdes. Very nice and quite sweet.
Mer Girl: this one is very odd, and an odd way to close the album. It's another song about Madonna's mother, and it is of course sad.

Overall, this album is exceptional. Depending on your Madonna preferences, "Ray of Light" may have to grow on you. But if you don't have it already, it's worth the purchase alone for "Frozen", "Swim" and "The Power of Goodbye". The other tracks are just hidden gems and special gifts from the Queen of Pop herself.

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