*By Kirstin Baglien*

The album announces Houston’s freedom from the dark times that plagued her, and how she won’t let them slow her down.  In the song “Salute,” Houston sings about her strength and independence with the lyrics “I’m feeling kind of stronger than you, lately/ I’m feeling kind of better than you.”

The album also manages to maintain a near-perfect blend of Houston’s signature vocals and contemporary hip-hop songs that appeal to a younger audience.

The song I Look to You gives listeners a much missed taste of Houston’s empowering gospel-style vocals. However, the track is not innovative or even fairly different than any of Houston’s older songs, which makes it less than spectacular.

In the song “Million Dollar Bill,” Houston’s sound shifts from gospel to a more hip-hop club-ready sound.  Similarly, “For The Lovers” features a slightly electronic sound that Houston hasn’t used before. 

Other songs like “Salute” and “Call You Tonight” aren’t exactly the tracks you would dance to in a club, but instead are a combination of Houston’s classic and newer sounds, with strong vocals and fast-paced music. 

The change in Houston’s sound can be credited to her collaboration with popular artists in the music industry.  “Million Dollar Bill” is written by Alicia Keys, “Salute” is written by R. Kelly and the song “Like I Never Left” features Akon.

I Look To You is not musical genius, nor an extreme change for Houston, but succeeds in re-launching her career with a fairly solid album.