Lady Gaga – Joanne (2016)- Album Review

When Lady Gaga came on the scene back in 2008, I thought she was just a 21st Century Madonna.  Boy, was I wrong.  Where Madonna never really grew up in her music, Lady Gaga certainly has.

The album is eclectic in its musical styles, but they all blend nicely together in a very cohesive album.  She definitely has her pop/dance songs such as the first single “Perfect Illusions” to “A Yo” which would fit nicely on any P!nk album.

Lady Gaga rocks out on the coolest song of the album “John Wayne” and has a country-blues tinged song “Sinner’s Prayer”.  Her vocal maturity shows through on the exceptional songs “Joanne”, “Diamond Heart” and the heartbreaking love song “Million Reasons”.

One of the highlights is the song “Angel Down” that was inspired by Trayvon Martin. It is a very moving and sad song.  The only misstep I found was “Hey Girl’ with Florence Welch.  It is the one song I found flat musically and not very interesting.

For the album, she worked with Mark Ronson, Beck & Josh Homme (eclectic group) who helped her craft a well-rounded, sensational album.  I can now say I am officially a fan.

10 keepers out 11 songs – 91% (4.5 out 5 stars).

 

NOTE:  This is my first 200 word album review which was inspired by a challenge by Mike Ladano from way back in August. I am a little slow getting around to it.  Click on his name and check out his site.  It has tons of reviews and some awesome stories.