First things first, I have never been a fan of Demi Lovato. I didn’t watch her on Disney Channel and I never considered seeing her in concert with the Jonas Brothers. That being said, Lovato’s newest album, Confident, released Oct. 16, surpassed my admittedly low expectations.
Lovato has released five albums since 2008, with each one establishing her personality and individuality, while simultaneously moving away from her “Camp Rock” days. Confident promotes this sense of maturity immediately with brassy horns and a heavy intro. Lovato sings, “You’ve had me underrated,” and the listener is left thinking that she might be right.
The album’s single, “Cool for the Summer,” brings out Lovato’s playful and rebellious side. Some have criticized the track for resembling Katy Perry’s 2008 breakout hit, “I Kissed a Girl,” but Lovato’s EDM-influenced track is strong in its own right. Lovato teases, “Don’t tell your mother,” and even drops an F-bomb.
Tracks like “Old Ways” and “Yes” bring out a sultry R&B flavor, and contrast with the anthemic bravado of “Lionheart.” The vocals are rich and powerful, but at times can be overwhelming. Lovato hammers the listener with her powerful set of lungs and, while this is impressive, it also can be draining to listen to.
The final track, “Father,” deals with Lovato’s complicated relationship with her dad, who died in 2013. She builds the song from a delicate, painful crooning into a sweeping, gospel power ballad.
Confident hasn’t completely convinced me that Lovato is a noteworthy artist, but the album undeniably proves that she is more than simply a former Disney star and is worth a second listen.
Grade: B-
