About a year ago we did this with the Change album and we got some very mixed and interesting reviews from everyone.

So, this year we can do the same thing with the new album. This thread will be closed untill Midnight October 19th and opened by either Rob or myself after that time.

So, when you have heard the new album please feel free to share your personal thoughts on it track by track with the rest of the forum.

I don't have the time to really write pages about Catfights And Spotlights but I'll give you a "track-by-track review".

YOU ON A GOOD DAY starts off like a classic Diana Ross & Surpremes track. Are you ready, Heidi?, Amelle kicks it off with her sassy speaking voice and soon after that you can hear a clear Beatles influences throughout the song. YOU ON A GOOD DAY is a feel-good song with catty and ironic lyrics.

NO CAN DO goes even further in the direction of Diana Ross & Surpremes classics. It's uptempo and very live band compatible.

HANGING ON A STAR could be the goofy theme of 70's late night show. Imagine a song like this in the musical HAIRSPRAY. Totally fitting IMO. Again, the song's a little like the previous one. Obviously 70's inspired... a little Surpremes in it. YOU ON A GOOD DAY + NO CAN DO + HANGING ON A STAR are some kind of a trilogy.

SIDE CHICK is late 90's uptempo pop. Strong beat, goes into the 'One Touch' vibe but is overall a bit spiced up and edged out to make it sound like a proper 00 century song.

UNBREAKABLE HEART starts off as an unpromising midtempo song, but gets stronger towards the chorus. It's the less poppy Undignified for me.

SUNDAY RAIN IMO is a real treasure, because it's so classy! Very dramatic and intense. Especially the chorus. Really great track. Dita von Tesse would love it.

EVERY HEART BROKEN again is a lyrical masterpiece. A little superficial though, but at least it shows some attitude. :P The track is very orchestral with a little twist in the chorus. I think the verses are striking, but the chorus is a bit of an anti-climax.

BEWARE was co-written by Amelle and I must say she needs to practice a little more because Keisha seems to just have naturally good songwriting skills in comparison with Amelle. But nevertheless. It could be a James Bond theme, no doubt about it.

NOTHING'S AS GOOD AS YOU is that bittersweet experience on this album which is just AAAAAHHH!! It was the song which touched me the most. It's not dramatic or anything like that, but just sweet and sincere. Brilliant!

SOUND OF GOODBYE has to be the elite ballad on the album. Personally I need to get into it more in future time. It's pretty Change - just not as earwiggy.

CAN WE CALL A TRUCE unfortunately isn't as mindblowing as the clip we've heard. Heidi's part definitely is the highlight of the song. The strings are GODDAMN BEAUTIFUL though!! It's reminiscent of 2 Hearts in a way... just as orchestral.

GIRLS

The debuet song from the album, also well known as the "album promoter. Good solid track that made the top 5. My liking for this song has dwindled a bit recently as I have grown to dislike it a bit.

However the live performances are fantastic and they promoted this song very well. The chorus being a cover seemed to ruin this song for a few people and I do agree had it been a totally re-written song in general it would of got an overall better fan-based reaction. Amelle's "ade-ade-ade" part remains the sell-listen point of this single. Of all the babes albums, I do feel Girls is their weakest lead single to date.

Rating: 3 / 5

You On A Good Day

From the sample of this, I knew I would like this song. And I wasnt dissapointed. Its quite "poppy" which was surprising considering the out-set of the album.
Love the outset of this song, the talking between the babes is good and reminds me of Angels With Dirty Faces.

The chorus is catchy and I like the way the lryics are written the overall structure if the song is well produced and its one of my faves from the album. Nice to see a pacey drum beat chorus too, the lack of Xenomania on the album seems to be sort of made up in small paces on this track.

Rating: 4 / 5

No Can Do

Looove the 60's intro to this and Amelle has a brilliant chrous which flows wonderfully well into Heidi's. Like the previous song, the outset is again quite poppy, but thats ok cause I pefer this one. Chorus is very good, well put together, and it is nice to see Heidi can still handle the bridges between each verse and chorus with ease.

This sort of reminds of an Atomic Kitten track overall, it is the sort of track they would sing back in the day but the babes do this song great justice.

"Don't try and even call me on the telephone" - best line. Nice to hear Keisha's adlibs at the end again.

Ratining: 5 / 5

Hanging On A Star

Pop Justice rating this track the worst one out of the bunch. I do not agree. I like this song a lot. The chorus is great and I loved Heidi's "NO NO NO" parts. It reminds me a bit of Avril Lavigne in some small places, where they sort of "talk-sing" in certain places. The song has a good-feeling vibe to it, and dispite PJ suggesting it needed work, maybe his reviewing skills do ha ha.

But I did like this one, not my overall fave but its certainly not as bad as he made out.

Rating: 4 / 5

Side Chick

This one surprised the hell out of me. The Sugababes doing rap/rnb? Never saw this one coming. It really works well. And it does really suite Keisha more than Amelle and Heidi.

Love the "story element" to this song too.

This song is very Angels With Dirty Faces era so its great. Loved this song - I am not a massive fan of RnB but they really did this well. The blend of the production and way the songs lryics hit out against eachother made me go WEEE :P I really like this song. It is very different, and very very listenable.

Rating: 5 / 5

Unbreakable Heart

A delightful soulful mid-tempo -baladly sort of track is the best way I can diescribe this track. Love the feeling of it, and the strong message it delivers. It reminds me of a sort of track I would of seen on Three or possibly even One Touch. Not a masterpeice, but surley one of stronger tracks on the album overall.

The chorus is quite the delight and the ending is great - to the point. A very well produced and polished song.

Rating: 4 / 5

Sunday Rain

W O W. This song is brilliant. Amelle and Heidi open the song so well, and the "ooooooh" part at the beginning is great. The chorus is not quite up to the standard of the verses, but its not a bad point and I refuse to criticise the song on this evidence.

The song has very "supremes" feel to it, and it looks like the babes really pulled this off very well. The execution of the lryics are well presented and expertly delivered. Heidi again, proves she can deliver some amazing high-notes, shines above most on this song.

Rating: 5 / 5

Every Heart Broken

This song is to me the Never Gonna Dance Again of C + S. It must be but will never be a single. The lryics are slighty morbid and depressing but I love the way the song is produced.

I diagree that the chorus is weak as I feel it blends in with the verses well. The outset of this song really hit home for me. Yes I also agree some of the lryics are quite close to the mark and what as seen as "acceptable" on most songs, but they deliver it so well. Amelle's verse is sung at more of a tempo but she really did it well. The piano solo fade in fade out at the start and end puts the gloss on one of the best songs they have delviered to date.

Rating: 5 / 5

Beware

Ah, the James Bond of the pack. Totally agree with that. The chorus certainly has a 007 feel to it, and it would make a good choice for Daniel Craigs next adventure.

Amelle co-wrote this one and I can see she has alot of tallent in her mind. She cetainly knows how a song flows and she puts the song together well. She leads the track well and the chorus is certainly the strongest point of the song.

While the choruses are good, they lack the same punch as previous songs so far, but that is not a bad critisism as the structure of them are well created.

Rating: 4 / 5

Nothing's As Good As You

This is hard for me to decide if I like it that much. Again, the chorus is brilliant, and it is well produced.

I just feel somthing is missing from this song overall. Whatever the song was doing or saying I did not grasp or understand it. It sounds a bit too "Back When" for me, not musically but thats the feeling I got from it. The chorus as i have said is very good and I do like the vocal arrangement.

This one is deffinatly a grower for me.

Rating: 3 / 5

Sound Of Goodbye

This is brilliant.

It was my fave sample track and the overall feel of it has lost no final appeal to me overall. It is so dam good. I think it is THE BEST track on the album. We know tha babes can add mood and feeling to their songs, but this one is done with amazing feeling and personality.

The words are dark and moody, I love the way the track is put together, and the way each babe sort of blends into eachother. The music however, really steps up a gear her. Such passione and emotion. Love this to bits. I really like this song.

Rating: 5 / 5

Can We Call A Truce

The rumored "Mutya truce track".

This is just as epic as Keisha discribed it. It really does move you when you listen to it. They say a song can take a person in two directions, and this song took me in two directions alright!.

Words lryical perfection - ideas and beleifs in the song - could not of been better. Album closers for the babes have always done well, this one is much better than undignifed from Change. I love the strings in the background on Heidi's chorus, and overall you really have to look deep into yourself to understand how this song affects you as a person. Great closer.

Rating: 5 / 5

OVERALL

52 / 60

Just a quick review hehe. :)

Girls: Total red herring on the album. Not my favourite single from them! but its still a good track. 7/10

You on a good day: Brilliant song to start after Girls. This album needed a track like this. You seem to appreciate tracks like these because the album has quite a few ballad tracks. It’s a summer song without a doubt. It would be a crime if they didn’t release this during the summer. 8.5/10

No can do: Has Jackson 5 written all over it. I’m glad it’s a single now. Just a utterly breath taking track. Not that keen on the chorus much. But apart from that, it’s brilliant. 9.5/10

Hanging on a star: It reminds me of a GA track in a way. I would say this track is more poppy than you on a good day. Not my favourite on the album. 5/10

Side chick: It’s a catchy track. The production doesn’t seem great tbh. I dunno. Just doesn’t have the same quality as the other tracks on the album. 6/10

Unbreakable heart: Not the best ballad they’ve done. Just doesn’t seem to grab me. 5/10

Sunday Rain: The music reminds me of something from a 1960’s film. Really loving this track. Reminds me of something Duffy would do. 8.5/10

Every heart broken: LOVE IT! It reminds me of something from Corpse Bride soundtrack. The song gets better when the 2nd verse starts. The lyrics are great! 9.5/10

Beware: Brings me back to the Three days. The verses are great and love Heidi’s bits. Not that keen on the chorus much. But it’s still a great song. 8/10

Nothing as good as you: Really great song. Very Supremes with a modern day twist. The song is a good reminder of the “Trilogy tracks” at the beginning of the album. Love the “Oh la la” bit. 8.5/10

Sound of goodbye: The beginning reminds me of Liberty X everybody cries. It’s not a lovey dovey kinda ballad, I guess that attracts me to it in a way. 8/10

Can we call a truce: Reminds me of 2 Hearts. Amelle really shines through out. It’s probably ones my favourite ballads. I would probably go as far saying it’s their best album ender. 9.5/10

01. Girls - A brilliant, vibrant departure from the 'Babes' usual pop sound, but a great one at that. Great build ups, a superb brass riff sample and beautiful, powerful vocals from all 3 girls. It gradually builds up throughout and gives across an exciting and intense feel. My 2nd Favourite lead single, Just beating Freak Like Me and falling a tad behind About You Now. 8/10

02. You On A Good Day - This instantly hit me upon first listen. I love the production, the old school sound, the simplicity of the melody and the quirky lyrics. Vocally it's superb and is a really fun, upbeat affair. It should certainly be a single, it's too good to pass by. Incredible song, and of the best Sugababes tracks ever. 9.5/10

03. No Can Do - Oustanding in you're face 70's style intro. Very funky, great beats and a superb vocal performance all round. Amelle particularly gives this track a lot of energy and effort and it certainly pays off. I love the general sound and like the way it's old fashioned with enough modern twists for it to chart noadays. Not sure how it will do as an X-mas single, but it's certainly a great Sugababes track. 9/10

04. Hanging On A Star - This track is not bad by any means, and I enjoy it a lot, but for me, it's the least favourable track on the album. I love the quirkyness of it and it's nice to have a groovy dancy number on the album. Amelles vocals at the start are wonderfully laid back and sexy, and I like the melody in Keisha's verse. A good song, but my least favourite on this record. 7/10

05. Side Chick - I adore this track, the production is limited but in a great way. The vocals really shine and the harmony throughout is gorgeous. Very well arranged vocal and melody, with maximum emphasis on just that. I like the fast sung verses and the smooth, flowing chorus, and the lyrics are really a hilight of the album. Particularly enjoy yhe last verse, so much fun. Great lite R&B vibe going on. 8.5/10

06. Unbreakable Heart - This song is actually quite dark, creepy and emotional. It really pays off and is certainly a hilight. Heidi's vocoded vocals are to die for and the chorus is really powerful and gives the songs message across really well. One of their best Ballads since stronger. It's intense and takes you right in, really love it. Production wise it's one of the best on the album. It's done very well and balances minamalism with great hooks and a full on chorus. 9/10

07. Sunday Rain - This is simply epic. The instrumental production is lush, powerful and full of amazingess and the vocals are beautifully crafted over the top of it and it all blends into one giant, fierce production. One of their most amazing, heartfelt ballads ever, whilst not sounding like anything they've done before. The chorus chord pattern is really exciting and it all progresses and grows very well. Amazing song, and one of the best Sugababes songs of all time, again. 9.5/10

08. Every Heart Broken - Lyrically, one of the Sugababes best. Taken me a while to get used to the studio versions production, but it's great and fuses Orchestration, amazing vocals and a slick R&B beat perfectly. Amelles middle 8 is the hilight and is one of the best vocals of any Sugababes track. The emotion, rawness and threatning message is a mixture of great relief and darkness. It's very well balanced and will go down in Sugababes history. 9/10

09. Beware - This is written so well, by the wondeful 'Melle and the production is top class. A dark, sinister, almost scary bassline and haunting strings and "Ooh"'s make this track almost perfect for me. The verses vocals are so rough and raw, and the chorus is really powerful and in your face. I absolutely adore this track, not sure how it would perform commercially, but it's imense never-the-less. 9.5/10

10. Nothing's As Good As You - This one didn't really make a large first impression but It is a grower and has a lovely melody and message. Vocally, it's lovely and has some qurikyness thrown in for good effect. The melody is it's main selling point and the girls all sound really cinsire. A lovely track in it's own, unique way. 8/10

11. Sound Of Goodbye - This one is really emotional, and the atonal qualitys thrown in give such a dramatic feeling. It's a really brillaint, heartfelt ballad, but not so typical of a ballad. It builds up nicely and has some really amazing ad-libs at the end. The chorus is so emotional and hard-hitting. A true Sugababes masterpiece. 8.5/10

12. Can We Call A Truce - One of the most lushly, well produced, emotion filled, raw songs I've ever heard. Vocally a triumph and all 3 girls sing so very well on this. It truely is a great closer to an incredible album. The lyrics are so heartfelt and it gives me chills just listning to it. It must have been hard to come up with a ballad this good. A true hilight and another track that will go down in Sugbabes History. 9.5/10

Overall:

For me, this is the best Sugababes album to date. No filler at all, no dud tracks, just pure, classic sugababes magic. Every great element they've toyed with over he years combined into this true masterpiece. I'm so thrilled with it and couldn't have asked for anything more.

Ste.

As usual, I rushed to buy and then rushed home to listen to this album! And I was so pleased that this beats "Change"

Girls
This song isn't #1 material, which a comeback single by Sugababes should be, really. When I heard this song I hated it. When I saw the video, I hated it. When I heard it in a club atmosphere, it grew on me! Now I like the song, but I don't love it. They played on the annoying sample which has been infecting the TVs of British people for about a year now.. and that's probably why.

Best Bit: Keisha's middle 8! It's a cut above the rest.

Score: 3/5


You On A Good Day
Track 2 on Sugababes albums are always amazing, and this is no exception! The intro when they talk is great, it'd fit better as track 1, though! I love how the vocals are more or less prose in the verses, it's a new idea and I like it. The lyrics are weird but kinda cool. This is a perfect example of using older musical influences in a modern pop song, it sounds up to date but old too.

Best Bit: Amelle speaking: "You're gonna make it up to me, you know you will" :lol:

Score: 5/5


No Can Do
This is one of the 3 tracks that I cracked and listened to, and I LOVE IT! Amazing single choice. It reminds me of something the Jackson 5 would sing, it makes me want to sing along and dance, it's so great. Funilly enough, I can't see this as a comeback single either, even though it's much better than "Girls". I also think that this should be the 4th single from the album, as it's an amazing summery tune... but I guess they never learn.

Best Bit: The outro! It's absolutely amazing.

Score: 5/5


Hanging On A Star
When I first heard this, I was like: wtf? But it's grown on me a little now! It's not as bad as Popjustice made out, but their opinion means nothing to me anyway as I think they're knobs. Anyway, this song seems a bit rushed, but it's still kinda cute. I think that this is one of the songs that I could skip, I don't ever choose to listen to it on its own.

Best Bit: None of it stands out really. Maybe the Offspring style chanting.

Score: 3/5


Side Chick
I thought I'd hate this song, but in fact it's the one I listen to most now! The lack of Heidi is a disappointment, Keisha goes on too much, but the main reason I love this song is Amelle's verse! It's absolutely amazing and so addictive! This goes back to the AWDF era with the quasi rapping, which I love and miss. I think the song itself could have a bit more too it, with better production or more Heidi.

Best Bit: Amelle!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I love "now put me on your speed dial and erase the rest"

Score: 5/5


Unbreakable Heart
This is no way the best song on the album, but it is the best "track 6" they've ever done, this position on the album is usually a disappointment for me. (Back When, Ugly, AWDF, Twisted) The song itself is really emotional and powerful in the chorus, but really cute in the verses. Heidi sounds so different, almost childlike. Maybe it's the nursery rhyme style piano in the background that does it!

Best Bit: The chorus, and baby Heidi!

Score: 4/5


Sunday Rain
Normally, this song would be one that I'd be all over, but I dunno.. it just seems a bit "much" for this album. It doesn't seem to fit, it's just in another league. I can imagine this in a musical or something instead. Or some power diva singing it. From my usual tastes, this should be my favourite track on the album, but It's one of those that I listen to least. It is classy and sophisticated though, maybe I have to listen more to get in to it.

Best Bit: The chorus again, very classy and powerful!

Score: 4/5


Every Heart Broken
I had high hopes for this. They were shattered. The verses are amazing, I love the tune, but what the hell is going on with the chorus? Maybe if the chorus was better rather than a total anti-climax, this would be the best song on the album! The lyrics are brilliant though, a little tacky, but also controversial. I'm not sure if they're about getting revenge by murdering boys who broke their hearts, or just saying that they broke boys hearts and they may as well have murdered them. I think the latter maybe! Anyway despite the chorus, this is still one of my faves.

Best Bit: Amelle's middle 8! She's on fire this album. "Slasher" is the best word!

Score: 5/5


Beware
There's always one worst track on the album, and this is it. If Mattafix did it, it'd be better. Sugababes just don't really carry it off. There is a possibility that this could be a single as they performed it before the album release, but this song is most definitely filler in my eyes. However the chorus is epic, and Amelle's vocals are dark and haunting. I just don't think it fits here to be honest.

Best Bit: The chorus, not much else.

Score: 3/5


Nothing's As Good As You
This song is cute! That's the only way to describe it, unfortunately it is also skippable. However the song picks up towards the end with the middle 8 which is fabulous, and after that, the song is much better! I'd prefer if the track was even rockier, but the soft vocals are great. Maybe this is a grower.

Best Bit: Keisha's Middle 8!

Score: 3/5


Sound Of Goodbye
The second half of the album isn't as good as I'd have hoped, but they always neglect the last few tracks. This song is good, but it doesn't stick in my head. It reminds me of Undignified a little, but I forget it straight after listening to it. I guess this will be yet another grower... growers always end up being the ones I love the most! That said, this is a perfect ballad, Heidi's vocals are wonderful. This song is bittersweet and I'll listen more so it'll grow.

Best Bit: Nothing stands out that much

Score: 3/5


Can We Call A Truce
This is totally NOT about Mutya, I swear. But I guess Keisha did mention Mutya and Siobhan in her album thanks... so maybe it is. I listened to this on Youtube before I got the album and I kept playing it over, and over, and over... this is the perfect way to close the album. It's absolutely brilliant. It's very emotional, the strings are lovely, everyone's vocals are brilliant, especally Heidi, I like how she's experimented so much on this album. The middle 8 is wonderful as well! This is my favourite song on the album.

Score: 5/5



In conclusion

This album was going to make or break if I would stay a Sugababes fan or not. After Change, I was disappointed. After Girls, I was worried. But now they've blown away all my doubt and they remain my favourites! Here's to the next 10 years of Sugababes!

Here is my review

01 Girls
I fell in love with this song after I have listened to it for the first time. I know that this isn't their best lead single, but it is very different and I love the Babes for trying out new sounds. Girls is full of energy which you can really see when the Babes peform it live.
5/5

02 You On A Good Day
I just love this cheeky uptemop song. The theme of it is really refreshing. I like how the vocals are shared. The lyrics are very entertaining.
5/5

03 No Can Do
Another great song. Especially Heidi's voice sounds so powerful in her part. And it's great that Amelle and Keisha share the middle 8. The chorus is very catchy.
5/5

04 Hanging On Star
This is a really nice feel good song. I like the "Offspring style" of this song. But the chorus and middle 8 seem a bit weak. But still it is a nice track.
4/5

05 Side Chick
This is such an amazing track. One of their best they have ever done. It's great to have one RnB influenced song this album which reminds of the One Touch era. This chrous is damn catchy.
5/5

06 Unbreakable Heart
The chorus is so powerful and this song has such emotional lyrics. It's a great ballad.
5/5

07 Sunday Rain
When I heard the introduction of this song I expected it to go a different way. Everytime I listen to this song I imagine a black and white movie. It's a very classic ballad.
4/5

08 Every Heart Broken
This song is creepy, dark and kinda crule. That is why the song is amazing. It is so different. The sweet piano introduction gives me shiver as it is in contrast with the cruel and morbid lyrics. The girls are really shining on this track.
5/5

09 Beware
This song has really grown on me. I didn't like it when I listened to it for the first time. Now I really like it. It is dark and dangerous. It's like a warning cry.
4/5

10 Nothing's As Good As You
This is a very sweet track. I love how Heidi sings "Hello" in her verse. The chorus is very catchy.
5/5

11 Sound Of Goodbye
This is such an amazing and emotional song. Heidi's part is the best and she is really shining vocally. Great harmonies and I love how Keisha sings "Goodbye" at the end of the chorus. This song just gives me goose bumps. It touches me a lot.
5/5

Can We Call A Truce
I love the lyrics of this song and its theme. You can really hear how desperate Amelle is to really call a truce. The best part is how Heidi nearly whispers her verse.
5/5


Overall

When I first heard that this album would have a more retro sound without any electropop I was a bit worried if I would like this new direction. But after I have listened to Catfights And Spotlights I have to say that I just love it. It is so much better than Change and a step forward. Their new album is dark, mature and contains amazing and meaningful lyrics. The Babes are shining vocally on each track.
For me the album tells a little story. I like the fact that it begins with some happy songs, but it turns more dark and depressive with the track Side Chick. Everytime I listened to this album I get a special feeling. I can't really explain it. It sends me to a journey with different harmonies and emotions.
I'm so glad that the Babes gave us such a wonderful album.

01. Girls
I will never understand why they chose this mediocre, lame girl power anthem as a first single. Never.
2/10

02. You On A Good Day
This song always seems to get me in a better mood. Favourite line: You're messed up from your chromosomes to your enzymes.
7/10

03. No Can Do
Old school pop song. I'm a bit disappointed it's the second single. It's not bad, not bad at all, I really like it, but there are better options.
6/10

04. Hanging On A Star
I'm really liking the cheerleader-esque vocals, they're cheerful. But I do think the Sugababes are a bit better than lines like: I've got a little crush, your body's such a rush.
6/10

05. Side Chick
Brilliant! This is gonna sound weird, bit it makes me wanna twist my body in various positions. Oh, well.. forget that.
10/10

06. Unbreakable Heart
Hated it at first, loved it at last. Was surprised to see that Max Martin had something to do with it, I thought he was gone. Favourite line: ... That's why it hurts.
8/10

07. Sunday Rain
Classy.
7/10

08. Every Heart Broken
Oh, so clever, oh so clever. You go go, Klas.
9/10

09. Beware
Nah, quite boring. Although the T4 performance with them sitting in the chairs lifted it a bit.
5/10

10. Nothing's As Good As You
So sweet! It makes me think of my boyfriend. Heidi's verse rules the song.
7/10

11. Sound of Goodbye
This is the only song I sometimes skip when listening to the album. Not a very good sign.
3/10

12. Can We Call A Truce
It's definitely a grower. Amelle is the queen of this one, and Heidi's whispering verse definitely makes her the princess!
6/10

13. About You Now (Acoustic)
Yeah, it's terrific, but something that we've already heard. I was expecting an acoustic guitar, since they've already released this piano version from the Live Lounge.
7/10

14. She's Like A Star (ft. Taio Cruz)
It doesn't fit on the album, but hey, it makes me wanna dance, so two thumbs up!
8/10

In my opinion, this is their best album yet. I was so afraid it wasn't going to be all that, since it seemed a bit rushed, and them not writing together as much. But hey, look how beautiful it turned out in the end. And they should continue to work with Klas Åhlund.

Finally: here is my review of Catfights And Spotlights. REMEMBER that since I listened to Kate Bush and I know what more ambitious music is and what a big please it gives :] I am much more demanding listening to music. So sorry if I don't give max point for a song I love as I realised that pleasure maight be bigger :)
Sorry for taking your time for reading it. Now let's start writing the review :) :P

1. Girls
Favourite verse: So let nobody tell you nothin', You're in controoooo-ooo-ooool :D
Are verses better than chorus?: Yes
Notes: I didn't like that song at the beginning. It took me a long time, but I fell in love with it. Trumpets are one of the best things in this song.
Rate:9/10

2. You On A Good Day
Favourite verse: You messed up from your chromosomes to your enzymes.
Are verses better than chorus?: Yes
Notes: I love this song, but it's something kinda smaller love :P It's great track, I love a beat of it. The song makes your day a bit happier.
Rate:7.5/10

3. No Can Do
Favourite verse: If you really wanted my love so desperately
Are verses better than chorus?: Yes
Notes: This song is a small grower. After several listen I love it and it became one of my faves on that album. I am glad there will be a video for it, but I'm affraid if this song sells well. But well, who cares :D
Rate:9/10

4. Hanging On A Star
Favourite verse: Cause im not gonna wait much longer
Are verses better than chorus?: They are on the same level.
Notes: Another song I love, can it end? :P The background music is great. Although what girls said, it's a bit electo-pop song. Beginning and Heidi's O-o-o-o-o's after chorus are great :P
Rate:8/10

5. Side Chick
Favourite verse: [that's actually the whole chorus :P but to choose one verse:] Boys are going crazy on a day to day basis (and it don't stop)
Are verses better than chorus?: No
Notes: The best track on Catfights And Spotlights. I loved since I listened to it for the first time and later it even grew on me. It's like Whatever Makes You Happy part 2. I love everything in Side chick except the fact that Heidi isn't there :( But Keisha and Amelle did an amazing job. I love rap parts. I even tried to sing along but I can't sing Amelle's verses. Too fast as for me :P ;)
Rate:10/10

6. Unbreakable Heart
Favourite verse: You might think i would know better than this by now
Are verses better than chorus?: Yes
Notes: It's another grower on this album. Now I love it and I think it's quite good point on the album.
Rate:7/10

7. Suday Rain
Favourite verse: You know i'm gonna go, You're never gonna know :wub:
Are verses better than chorus?: Yes
Notes: A moving ballad. In style of Back To Black of Amy Winehouse. I love changes of tones durning chorus and ohhh, I adore the way that Keisha sings "you know i'm gonna go
you're never gonna know". Her voice is amazing.
Rate:8.8/10

8. Every Heart Broken
Favourite verse: He crashed and burned, There's just no buying me
Are verses better than chorus?: Yes
Notes: The piano at the beginning sounds very good. Lyrics are one of the best parts of this song. Shame that the title was changed as I liked it more before. It's another great moving song. I like that Amelle's verses have more power in themselves.
Rate:9/10

9. Beware
Favourite verse: But you beware (beware)
Are verses better than chorus?: No
Notes: I adore this song. This track is a pure amazingness. It's so dark and edgy. Just what I needed on this album. Chorus has blown me away when I first heard it. I thought jusy: "Woohaaa!" xD So strong.
Rate:10/10

10. Nothing's As Good As You
Favourite verse: I can tell you all the things you ever want to know
Are verses better than chorus?: On the same level I guess :P
Notes: It reminds me Black Jack of Girls Aloud. Nice, positive track to listen to. Nothing very special but I like it :)
Rate:6/10

11. Sound Of Goodbye
Favourite verse: To no end
Are verses better than chorus?: Yes
Notes: What can I say... I love this track because it's a bit darker than rest of songs. It could be more powerful, but it still has a great melody and also a bit suprising moments
Rate:8.4/10


12. Can We Call The Truce
Favourite verse: I don't wanna fight and losing you
Are verses better than chorus?: No
Notes: I think that this is the weakest song on CAS, but also not bad one. It seems to me that it's my least fav because of chorus. It's too simple for me. Can We Call The Truce is the only song on the album I wanna skip.
Rate:5/10

13. About You Now (Acoustic)
Favourite verse: Not a day passed me by when I don't think about youuuu
Are verses better than chorus?: Yes
Notes: Good to have a song to skip for after weak CWCTT. In my opinion acoustic version of AYN is much better than original one. Thank you Giftofmelody ;)
Rate:8.5/10

14. She's Like A Star (with Taio Cruz)
Favourite verse: He's the only one that I want by my side
Are verses better than chorus?: Yes
Notes: Taio did a great job writing this song and Sugababes made it even better with their verses. I simply really love it :)
Rate:9.5/10

To sum up:
Average of rates: 8.6
My rate for a whole album Catfights And Spotlights: 9/10

Catfights And Spotlights is one of the best albums of this year. I love it and I am very happy that Sugababes are the ones that recorded it! I'm really glad they didn't dissapoint me. Vocals of all Babes improved very much and now are almost perfect. Thanks to this album keisha became my favourite Sugababe. Woooo! Her voice is the best and she really can use it. BTW I have no idea why in most songs I like verses more than choruses :P
THANK YOU SUGABABES!!!
:)



My recent classification of albums of Sugababes:

1. Angels With Dirty Faces
2. Catfights And Spotlights
3. Taller In More Ways
4. Three
5. One Touch
6. Change

1. Girls
Favourite verse: Tonight we rule the world beware ‘cause here come the girls
Notes: Obviously it's not the best track of the forum, on the contrary i think it's the best song with a TERRIFICANT chorus. Oh My God!.. However our girls are been very goood to record this cover. I add that i prefer the mixes of this song. Anyway i think it's the worst first single of the Sugababes (after Overload obviously).
Rate: 3/5

2. You On A Good Day
Favourite verse: But then your new party friends went and called for
Some stripper again
Notes: Also here the chorus is not beautiful. The verses is very very nice. Especially Amelle here is amazing. :)
Rate: 4/5

3. No Can Do
Favourite verse: don't try and even call me on the telephone
it don't mean a thing 'cause i'm on my own
Notes: I'm sorry but i don't like this song very much. In fact the only one verse i like is the end. It's almost pass.
Rate: 2/5

4. Hanging On A Star
Favourite verse: hanging on a star, i was waiting 'round to fall in love
Notes: I think if this track was been more dance, it would make a big success in all the discos.. I really like.
Rate: 4/5

5. Side Chick
Favourite verse: Official is my definition, If you don't agree (but whole chorus is very beautiful)
Notes: I think it's the best track of the album. A nice r&b track. Good sound. Good Keisha here! Perfect.
Rate: 5/5

6. Unbreakable Heart
Favourite verse: Now I'm done doing pennance for the crimes I've done
Notes: Nice song. Nice chorus and verses. I haven't got words to spend here honestly. This song doesn't tell me anything but it has got a great sound.
Rate: 4/5

7. Sunday Rain
Favourite verse: if it's just a picture, postcard, Made to teach ya (the chorus too)
Notes: Beautiful ballad. It has got a Winehouse style. I imagine the girls in a cemetry in a rainy day. :D Beautiful Amelle here ...
Rate: 5/5

8. Every Heart Broken
Favourite verse: Arrivederci Baby (being italian xD)
Notes: It's a great song. I love it. Each verse is very beautiful and being an italian boy i love when Amelle says "Arrivederci baby" :D .. i hope that this will be a third single and the girls will come in Italy to shoot a piece of a video. :D
Rate: 5/5

9. Beware
Favourite verse: augh in the face of clear and present danger Stake your life
Notes: So and so.. i don't like very much but it's pass.
Rate: 2/5

10. Nothing's As Good As You
Favourite verse[/b]: I could tell you all the things you ever want to know
Notes: I don't like.
Rate: 1/5

11. Sound Of Goodbye
Favourite verse: ALL THE SONG
Notes: One of the best song of this album. I adore this track. I like every verse. I adore Keisha here soooo much. Beautiful Song.
Rate: 5/5


12. Can We Call The Truce
Favourite verse: I don't wanna fight and losing you
Notes: It's a beautiful song. One of the best song in the album. Congratulations..
Rate: 5/5

13. About You Now (Acoustic)
Favourite verse: Can we bring yesterday back around?
Notes: A great version of About You Now. Beautiful
Rate: 5/5

14. She's Like A Star (with Taio Cruz)
Favourite verse: She's higher than the sky, The suns and the moon
Notes: I love Taio Cruz here when she say "hey she's higher than the sky the suns and the moon..".. the girls are been very good as well. A beautiful song..
Rate: 5/5 :sssh


"CATFIGHTS AND SPOTLIGHTS" ALBUM
Notes: It's my second best album of the Sugababes.
Rate: 4/5


Here are the full my official chart about the albums:

1. ANGELS WITH A DIRTY FACES (4.56/5)
2. CATFIGHTS AND SPOTLIGHTS (4.54/5)
3. TALLER IN MORE WAYS (4.46/5)
4. THREE (4.4/5)
5. CHANGE (4.3/5)
6. ONE TOUCH (1.5/5)

Being out of touch from the Sugababes music soon after i saw them on Change Tour because of the job im in. I was very suprised to see the babes bring out an album so soon. Change was an ok album but there were to many fillers for me, so i was interested to see How Catfights & Spotlights would be like.

On the first couple of listens i was very disappointed however AC/DC had just brought out Black Ice so i was constantly listening to that after 9 years of waiting for another AC/DC album.

After a week i decided il sit in my room with my headphones on my day off and listen to Catfights & Spotlights and on that 3rd listen ive got to say i thoroughly enjoyed however still not the best by Sugababes standards. I would give the album about 6.5/10. I like tracks like Girls, You On A Good Day, No Can Do, Hanging On A Star & unbreakable Heart. Really catchy songs. But songs like Side Chick is unbearable to me. & songs near the album are just fillers.

Im happy they are still making music however im not quite sure what direction they were looking with this album. It seems abit disjointed to me. So my score is 6.5/10 good album but still not as good as previous albums.

Cheers
Owen

I've finally got round to doing this :D

Girls
I hated this at first, but grew to love it. It's still one of, if not, their weakest lead single yet, but all the same it's a good feeling pop song that makes you dance.

7/10
Best line: Hear the whistle as I walk by, shine like a crystal all through the night

You On A Good Day
I may be the only person on the planet who doesn't like this song! It annoys me in every sense of the word, I hope it doesn't become a single.

3/10
Best line: You're messed up from your chromosomes to your enzymes

No Can Do
I LOVE this song, it's so upbeat and feel-good, not sure of it being released as a winter single, but I hope it does well as this song is soooo good, can't wait for the promo to start for it.

10/10
Best line: Don't try and even call me on the telephone, it don't mean a thing cos I'm on my own

Hanging On A Star
Really good song, love the beat to it and the 'Cos I'm hanging...I'm hanging...I'm hanging' part. Definitely disagree with Popjustice on this one.

8/10
Best line: So won't you hurry up cos I wanna get up right on ya

Side Chick
Should've been the lead single, it's amazing, Amelle's rap is :wub:

10/10
Best line: Pulling all sorts of trickery tryin to get in my knickers

Unbreakable Heart
Gorgeous ballad, can be a bit boring at times for me.

7/10
Best line: What good is an unbreakable heart?

Sunday Rain
Didn't like this at first either, but it's grown on me a lot, they sound amazing on this the vocals are just <3

7/10
Best line: With Saturday sun always come Sunday rain

Every Heart Broken
My favourite song on the album, the lyrics, the music, the vocals it's all just so :wub:. Really hope this becomes a single.

10/10
Best line: He tried to kiss and tell on me so now he sleeps with the fishes, arrivederci baby

Beware
Another song I really like, I love the edge and creepiness this song has, amazing.

9/10
Best line: In the event that we should meet, I recommend that you cross the street

Nothing's As Good As You
It's OK, not brilliant more b-side material in my opinion.

4/10
Best line: I just can't help the way that I'm feeling, nothing's as good as you

Sound Of Goodbye
Like Sunday Rain, I didn't like this at first, but it's a nice ballad with beautiful vocals.

6/10
Best line: How can the silence scream so loud

Can We Call A Truce
What an AMAZING song, I love it, the one song on the album I can have a good cry too, I just love it.

10/10
Best line: Can we call a truce, we both have our truths

About You Now (Acoustic)
I'm glad we got a studio recording ot this, it's such beautifully sung. Nice bonus track.

5/10
Best line: Can we bring yesterday back around?

She's Like A Star (with Taio Cruz)
I like this song anyway and I'm glad we're Bustaless on this one.

4/10
Best line: Just like the greatest song, you are my number one


Overall, a very strong album, certainly one of their best yet, only Taller tops it for me. 7.5/10

Order of favourites:
Every Heart Broken
No Can Do
Can We Call A Truce
Side Chick
Beware
Hanging On A Star
Sunday Rain
Girls
Unbreakable Heart
Sound Of Goodbye
About You Now (Acoustic)
She's Like A Star (with Taio Cruz)
Nothing's As Good As You
You On A Good Day

1. Girls 7/10

I go back and forth with this song. Some days I love it, others not so much. I understand the reason for it being used as the first single. The horns are amazing though; they being the main reason I like this song although Keisha's middle 8 is darn good.

2. You On A Good Day 8/10

Solid fun pop song where the Sugababes embody The Supremes, and quite well. The lyrics are a bit peculiar but the song is catchy and really cute so it makes it enjoyable.

3. No Can Do 8/10

Again, the Sugababes recreate the sounds of Motown on this track and again quite effectively. The verses are a bit week. But the ending ("dont try and even call me..."), really makes an impressionable ending do the song.

4. Hanging On A Star 6/10

Cute, but nothing really stands out to make this song go from mediocre to good.

5. Side Chick 8/10

Not likeable at first but with more listens I grew to really like it. Cool and calm jam by the Babes which works because one doesnt get the sense of trying too hard or desperation. Plus Amelles r&b/hip hop sprinkle in the middle 8 is delivered exceptionally well.

6. Unbreakable Heart 9/10

My favorite song on C&S at the moment. Lyrics are beautiful and so is the production. Catchy hook and grand chorus really work well together.

7. Sunday Rain 8/10

Beautiful. Simply put. Focuses on the Babes vocals in a cabaret-like feel and pulls it off.

8. Every Heart Broken 9/10

Creative lyrics, and I adore how the song keeps building itself with the verse-hook-verse- and finally chorus, it doesnt hurt that the chorus is even better than what came before it.

9. Beware 10/10

Perfect, haha. The feel of the song is dark and chilling; truly captures the "bitchiness" of Sugababes.

10. Nothing's As Good As You 9/10

Reminds me of YOAGD & NCD but with more Sugababes sounds to it as opposed to the 60's/70's inspiration from those mentioned. Very enjoyable listen.

11. Sound Of Goodbye 6/10

The weakest mid/slow tempo song on the album. And since the album has that general feel, this one probably sounds worse when compared to the others so it makes the song appear more like a filler. Nothing too memborable, but it doesnt sound bad either.

12. Can We Call A Truce 10/10

Perfect album closer. Its the saddest track on the album. It feels so honest you cant help but feel what their singing about.

Didnt mention much of the vocals on the track reviews but its pretty much a given that I wouldve had to praise them on all the tracks. They do not sound bad once. The lyrics also are miles ahead of TIMW and Change. Although this album doesnt contain the fun catchy electro pop songs the Babes have made themselves famous through I feel this is their best album to date. They focused on a new sound and different part of their art (particularly their vocals) and came out with an impressive pop album that should be proud to put alongside their other work.

verdict: 3.0 owns my life!! :P

1. Girls 6/10
Not a perfect choice for the lead single. It gets boring now. And the video isn't interesting.

2. You On A Good Day 6/10
Just standard track, nothing's special comes from this song.

3. No Can Do 7/10
Hated it on the first listen, but it grows a bit now. Definitely better single choice than Girls.

4. Hanging On A Star 6/10
The chorus is good and fun, but it doesn't grow on me.

5. Side Chick 9/10
Yeah, one of my favorites in this album. I love how they sing like AWDF era.

6. Unbreakable Heart 10/10
I love this song, love the chorus, the beat also fun.

7. Sunday Rain 8/10
Nice ballad, but it couldn't make me goosebumps as Sound of Goodbye do.

8. Every Heart Broken 9/10
Great song, love the chorus and the lyrics. Should be a strong third single

9. Beware 8/10
A fun song, although it sounds freaky sometimes. I like it

10. Nothing's As Good As You 6/10
I don't really like this song, a bit boring when I listen to it twice.

11. Sound of Goodbye 10++/10
This is the best part of the album. Amazing ballad, great verses and chorus. Very emotional as I get goosebumps sometimes. Should be the fourth single, as usual the 4th singles are ballads.
Favorite verse: Oh I wish it could be different, wish it could be different, but it'll only hurt you more...

12. Can We Call A Truce 9/10
Great song to end this album. I love it.

I must update my review!

Last time I wrote:

And what about now?

6. Unbreakable Heart
Favourite verse: You might think i would know better than this by now
Are verses better than chorus?: Yes
Notes: It's another grower on this album. Now I love it and I think it's quite good point on the album.
Rate:7/10

and before:

after:

11. Sound Of Goodbye
Favourite verse: To no end
Are verses better than chorus?: Yes
Notes: What can I say... I love this track because it's a bit darker than rest of songs. It could be more powerful, but it still has a great melody and also a bit suprising moments.
Rate:8.4/10

1. Girls
Girls? Isn't that the song from the Boots advert I thought out loud as typing this which reminded me of at the time thinking the same thing too. Someone should create a cure for Deja Vu like in the Spice Girls album shouldn't they? Oh no, I mean film. The Sugababes should have made a film but I can't see Amelle reading a script. Lets be honest, she probably didn't reach Gold Star in year 4, let alone library stage. Y'know what I mean? Yeah, you probably do.
2. You on a Good Day
Keisha was first because she was most important really, she was like that in all the songs where they said their names wasn't she? Because she was leader. I like that one song where they say their names that they used these emoticons in the video, you know where Mutya puked ice at her nemeses. Can you see Amelle doing that? A little.
These emoticons :heidi: :mutya: :keisha:
3. No Can Do
6\10
4. Hanging on a Star
This one has lots of plays on my last fm. Actually no, I'm thinking of She's Like a Star because my sister kept listening to it. But why? Because she's a chav. I don't let her on the computer anymore in case she ruins my last fm.
5. Side Chick
This is my favourite on this album it reminds me of when I used to hang out with Greta at school and Rosie came over all like 'alright bitch, why you been eyin up my man?' and Greta got into a huge argument in front of anyone and so I stood as moral support for Greta who was blind anyway WTF. I hated that bitch Rosie. I beat her arse in hockey once.
6. Unbreakable Heart
It reminds me of when I felt that my love for Sugababes was unbreakable then Heidi, allegedly bullied my friend Keisha out. But probably not. I don't believe anything written in the papers.Heidi's nice in this song.
7. Sunday Rain
Is like that song on Back to Basics by Christina Aguilera. It's nice. It really nice.
8. Every Heart Broken
I get this one mixed up with Unbreakable Heart, they're both about hearts aren't they? Yeah, yeah.
9. I'm bored now, I'l review the rest tomorrow.
PS: Hi Rich.