Christina Aguilera – Liberation

Review

Christina Aguilera's 'Liberation' reads like a declaration of independence from an artist who's finally calling all the shots. Dropping in 2018, this collection finds Xtina diving deep into a musical cocktail that's equal parts hip-hop swagger, reggae rhythm, and acid rock edge. The Ty Dolla Sign and 2 Chainz-assisted 'Accelerate' shows how comfortable she's become in hip-hop circles, while her collaboration with Demi Lovato on 'Fall in Line' serves up some serious #MeToo movement energy that hits just right for the cultural moment.

What's wild about this album is how Aguilera shape-shifts through different sonic identities without losing herself in the process. 'Right Moves' and 'Sick of Sittin'' prove she can step into various musical lanes while keeping her foot firmly on the gas pedal of her own narrative. The whole project feels simultaneously fresh and familiar – like catching up with an old friend who's gone through some major growth. This is Christina flexing her creative muscles, reminding listeners that pop's powerhouse vocalist still has plenty to say and innovative ways to say it. - Lena