Adam Lambert - "Better Than I Know Myself"

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The first conclusion on listening to Adam Lambert's debut single from his upcoming album Trespassing is that he simply needs more interesting songs. Adam Lambert's voice is a unique and powerful instrument, but when the song and production are dull, even the best voice can't completely turn things around. "Better Than I Know Myself" can fit easily into pop radio playlists, but it is difficult seeing it as a favorite among the general base of mainstream pop fans. Here's hoping for more interesting music when the album appears in 2012.

Adam Lambert has not yet truly lived up to the commercial potential promised by the hordes of fans who pre-ordered his debut album For Your Entertainment. That is unfortunate, since he possesses a truly engaging, outspoken personality as well as one of the most powerful male voices in the music business. The recent success of his live appearances with Queen attest to the gifted performer inside.

So what goes wrong here? It simply seems that no one was truly engaged in the project. The lyrics are a bland description of romantic regret with the unoriginal catch line of, "But you're the only one who knows me better than I know myself." The production only gains interest in the bridge with the thumping bass line and keyboard runs to the forefront. Adam Lambert gamely sings the song with passion, but the radio friendly slickness here is difficult for him to overcome.

The album Trespassing is set for a March 20, 2012 release. Expected collaborators such as Bruno Mars, Pharrell Williams, and disco legend Nile Rodgers do hold out hope for more interesting music to come. For now, don't expect more than a mid-level chart success out of "Better Than I Know Myself."