★ ★ ★ ★ out of 5
It's rather unfortunate to see a talented songwriter, responsible for many standout tracks from the likes of pop superstars such as Katy Perry (five of her seven #1 hits), Adam Lambert ("Cuckoo", "Chokehold"), Christina Aguilera ("Let There Be Love") and Britney Spears ("Hold It Against Me", "Gasoline", "Inside Out"), struggle to launch their own solo career, but the ever-evolving Bonnie McKee is a fighter and definitely shows no signs of throwing in the towel.
Following the release of the moderately successful "All-American Girl" and the even-better-yet-sadly-overlooked inbetweengle "Sleepwalker", plans for McKee's sophomore album seemed to have hit a dead end back in 2013 and she was forced to leave record label Epic Records after feeling like there was a lack of control over her blooming career.
Those unfortunate circumstances have thankfully led to the release of the new Bombastic extended play, featuring four pop-leaning creations. Preceded by the title track, the new effort is a delicious teaser at what to expect from McKee with more support, creative control and promotion. With the ability to craft a killer and catchy hook, commendable pipes and a fun, playful image, it's a step in the right direction for the up-and-coming pop star.
The EP opens with the electronic rock-driven "I Want It All", an early strong indicator of McKee's fearless and fierce attitude as she wraps a solid, radio-friendly hook in unexpected yet infectious and glistening production. "I want your touch, I want your kiss, I want tough love, I want it all," she demands on the track's chorus as the beat only amps up the power and seductive nature of the artist's underrated vocal abilities.
Though the effort's title track may have been a weak introduction at the artist's true talents, there's no denying its fun and playful tone. "Bombastic" does not live up to McKee's numerous, golden songwriting credits, and it certainly won't bring in more new fans, but those already familiar with the artist's work will appreciate the campiness, the carefree vibe and the sexual undertones of the rebellious pop offering.
"Wasted Youth", a shining highlight off the new EP, is an empowering mid-tempo ballad that shows McKee at her best in terms of narrative and reflective songwriting. The artist looks back on dreams, reckless behavior and how it felt to be young. "Yeah, we're bored and jaded, sharing bubblegum, but these nights are sacred, there's freedom in our blood," she sings. It's an inspiring tune supported by intriguing beats and killer, Kesha-like vocals.
The short but sweet effort closes out with "Easy", a tender love ballad where the artist sings she would be lost without her lover by her side. McKee's strong and emotionally charged vocal performance is at the forefront of the track while the backing production provides 80s pop-leaning support for the artist. The meaningful ballad paired with a breezy vibe helps the track becomes a radio-friendly, summer anthem contender.
Bombastic is a solid preview of everything singer/songwriter Bonnie McKee is capable of as it boosts interest in her next full length effort. While the extended play succeeds for giving the audience the best of her best in a short and straight to the point effort, it does leave a lot to the imagination. The project's lead single is not a great representation of the rest of the track list, it falls to the back of the pack, but each offering does have the potential to rule the radio airwaves, especially in the summer. McKee has not lost her golden pop touch, much of the power lies within the song's lyrical content, however the artist shows she's much more than just a songwriter. Her vocal performances throughout the EP are convincing when need be, and girly and cute at other times. The perfect combination.
Tracks to Hear: "I Want It All", "Wasted Youth" and "Easy"
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