Review of Melissa Etheridge's The Awakening

In what is perhaps her most personal collection of songs to date, Melissa Etheridge tells an autobiographical story through lyrics on her ninth studio album release entitled, "The Awakening." The album touches on beliefs, personal struggles and problems of the universe at large. An accomplished singer-songwriter and woman rock star, Etheridge pulls out all the stops in "The Awakening," giving her fans and new listeners something to be excited about.

The disc begins with a prelude of "All There Is;" a soft intro of vocals and background guitar. A full song follows with a full voice singing of the freedom and dreams that lie in "California ." After the sunshine state inspired tune is the Santana-sounding melody of "An Unexpected Rain." Three quarters of the song is slow tempoed, with a jam-packed instrumentation and chorus kicking in at the song's end.

The most radio-friendly pop tune is found in "A Message To Myself," the first single off the album. It has a wonderful message, great sing-a-long quality, and a nice melody. "God Is In The People" is the next hopeful track/interlude. Yet another tune of the bad side of fame (sung by someone who is rich and famous) strikes "Map Of The Stars." It runs a bit long at over five minutes, but the story goes full circle.

Etheridge kicks it into country mode with the comedic "Threesome." Complete with twangy vocals, dramatic, Jerry Springer-ish lyrics, the music is actually worth listening to. Similar to John Lennon's legendary chorus chant in "Give Peace A Chance," Melissa offers interlude, "All We Can Really Do." A heart-wrenching ballad is what "I've Loved You Before" brings. It boasts touching lyrics; "Did I hold you in my arms as you were taking your last breath? Did I shout to all the gods that I would love you beyond death?" "A Simple Love" is another short and sweet passing into the next track.