Loose (CD - 2006)

On her third studio album, LOOSE, Nelly Furtado largely abandons the bohemian vibe of previous outings, opting for an energetic, club-ready sound said to be influenced by the time she spent recording in Miami. The Canadian-born singer-songwriter approaches this significant change with wild abandon, as revealed on the sensual singles "Promiscuous," a remarkably catchy dance-pop tune that features Timbaland, and "Maneater," a leering, techno-tinged track. The percussive "No Hay Igual" finds Furtado delving into reggaeton, while "Te Busque" presents the soulful vocalist performing a melancholy duet with Colombian heartthrob Juanes. Though some Furtado fans may initially be perplexed by this dramatic sonic shift, repeated listens reveal the record's charms, particularly on the soaring, synth-laden opener "Afraid" and "All Good Things (Come to an End)," a thoughtful pop ballad co-penned by Coldplay's Chris Martin (who was once rumored to be her boyfriend). An unpredictable and assured album, LOOSE proves that Furtado can wander down unfamiliar stylistic roads and return with fascinating results. minimize