Nelly Furtado
Folklore
On Sale Now
For $13.28

Folklore contains rather complex instrumentation mixed with simple songwriting that makes for a delightful experience, but it can take some effort for the casual listener. She’s all over the map at times stylistically and that may not necessarily appeal to those who just want a good beat. While Folklore is a nice, albeit typical testimonial from a singer making her sophomore record, it’s neither a slump nor a masterpiece. There’s still a lot of hope for her to do more with the talent she has and the record is spotty in showcasing Furtado at her best.

Integrating world music with Portuguese language, Furtado’s voice is strong, compelling, vivacious and alluring. Some could write her off as a cultured, less conventional Michelle Branch with the affinity to structure pop arrangements with rather one-dimensional lyrics. She’s almost too demanding in the repetitive opening track stating over and over that she’s “not a one-trick pony.” It’s a self-conscious start that preaches its message while canceling it out at the same time. In other words, let the audience decide the verdict on that proclamation, Nelly.

It’s not necessarily true or false. She doesn’t branch out or really develop as a songwriter, but she’s still going strong after her terrific debut Whoa Nelly! The record needs more than what it offers. Despite the danceability and the cool grooves that permeate throughout, there is not a whole lot to latch onto. The arrangements are what sets her apart from the rest of the crowd. While Britney and even Missy Elliott stick to with bass-bumping beats, at least Furtado integrates unique sounds and instruments to carry her tunes. But they can’t compensate for the occassional bland lyrical content that really doesn’t grab the listener. Then again, there’s not a lot to say about words like “I am like a bird/I want to fly away” from her previous endeavor. However, when you hear Bela Fleck on banjo this time out, your eyes light up.

Strong tracks like “The Grass Is Green” and "Fresh off the Boat" offer an elated blend of Latin cadence, electronic upwelling, peaceful acoustic sounds, and a catchy chorus. Fans know what to expect, and she provides with poise especially when singing with her own native tongue on a song like “Forca.” While the record is nice, engaging, and a hell of a lot more interesting than most mainstream pop starlets give us, it’s disappointing in how it stays in one place and never really explodes inside your eardrums like you want it to. It’s clear all the elements are there, but at times, Folklore needs a kick in the pants in order to rock your socks off. Despite the captivating presence of Furtado herself, the end result is not as relevant as one would hope for.

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