AMERICAN LIFE is good album. It’s not just a good album. It’s a rather great album, full of hooks, interesting production, and acoustic guitar(yeah, it sounds better than it does on paper). I can only speculate as to why so many people derided this as refuse, but that’s not why I’m writing this. I’m here to tell you why AMERICAN LIFE is a great album, and one of Madonna’s best album.
The album opener, and first single is "American Life". A glitchy, sassy piece, and a great way to start off the album. Lyrically, Madonna delves into questioning her "American life". Although as a first single, it was a risky(see: WRONG) choice. Although many find the rap section in the middle annoying, I find it brings a delicious irony to the song, and I think it really is a personal taste issue. The overall sound of the song is an excellent way to introduce the listener to the electro-acoustic sound of the album.
he next song, and second single, is "Hollywood", which I feel would have made for a better first single. A little more acoustic, groovy, and there’s no rap. Madonna sings in a disillusioned style about trying to "make it" in Hollywood.
"Nobody Knows Me" is more electro-based/dance-oriented than most of the other songs on the album, and I love it.
I’m just going to come right out and say I love "Die Another Day". While the movie was awful, I found Madonna’s electroclash theme song to be the highlight. Great use of strings, a perfect dark feel. great start-stops.
Album closer takes us into introspective mode, with Madonna singing about wanting to earn the things in her life. She doesn’t want an "Easy Ride", which just so happens to be the song title. Acoustic guitar, epic strings, and an excellent part towards the end that sounds like the CD is skipping(in a good way). A great way to close the album.
Overall, this album is grossly underrated; an interesting experiment into acoustic guitar, folk songs, and electro elements that stands out as one of my favorite Madonna albums.