Kelly Clarkson, Greatest Hits: Chapter One album review

A whole decade and five albums since her win on American Idol, Kelly Clarkson proves that there is no such thing as the curse of the reality TV winner. Not content with five hit albums, the Texas born singer is at it again with her sixth album having recently been released just in time for Christmas, on November 26th.

The album, entitled ‘Greatest Hits: Chapter One’, sees the return of some of her classic anthems such as ‘Since U Been Gone’ and more recently, ‘Dark Side’ with the addition of some new songs including brand new single ‘Catch My Breath’.

With rumours of an engagement to her talent manager boyfriend, Brandon Blackstock, Kelly’s new positive attitude towards love seems to have influenced her songs. The latest release features lyrics such as “heavy heart now a weightless cloud” whilst still holding that familiar empowering rock-pop vibe we heard in ‘Miss Independent’ and ‘Stronger’.

If this recent single release is anything to go by then the other two new releases on the album should be absolute belters. One of the tracks, entitled ‘Don’t Rush’ features Vince Gill and has a much more mature sound than some of Clarkson’s earlier sounds due to it being less dominantly instrumental. The rest of the album varies from pop with a twist of rock to full on ballads to country.

Overall, this latest album release from Kelly Clarkson is a solid record. They’ve pulled out the few weak songs you would usually skip on an album and packed it full with absolute belters. The album really does capture the greatest hits from throughout her career rather than just what she fancies putting on the record.

Recommended for those die-hard Kelly Clarkson fans who just have to own every single album ever made by her. Alternatively, for those who like Carrie Underwood or Lady Antebellum and want a taste of Kelly’s music without having to buy the back catalogue of five albums.

4 out of 5 stars.