After not releasing a solo album for 10 years, one of the original queens of pop is returning to the charts.
Gwen Stefani released her third solo album, “This is What the Truth Feels Like,” on Friday, after previously releasing two singles in October and February.
The album is inspired by Stefani’s divorce with Gavin Rosdale and her new relationship with “The Voice” co-star Blake Shelton.
Compared to work that Stefani has done in the past, this album does not really stand out above the rest. The album is simply ordinary — the songs are not badly written, but they could be so much more.
Each song sounds like Stefani tried to specifically write for radio play and the songs are not dripping with any sort of emotion, which Stefani has proved she can do. While the album as a whole is supposed to be about her personal life, even in the “sad” songs, it is hard to tell the emotion.
Highlights on the album are the songs “Send Me a Picture,” likely about Shelton, and “Asking 4 It,” with guest vocals by rapper Fetty Wap. These are two of the more experimental songs on the album.
However, the two singles, “Used to Love You” and “Make Me Like You,” along with song “Naughty,” sound like they are not connected to Stefani’s emotions and could be sung or written about any pop star’s relationships.
Stefani is usually a stand-out on the music scene, dating all the way back to 1995 when her band No Doubt broke through with its album “Tragic Kingdom.” Sadly, this album falls flat, though it could have been some of her best work.
“This is What the Truth Feels Like” is available now.
The Slate welcomes thoughtful discussion on all of our stories, but please keep comments civil and on-topic. Read our full guidelines here.