The Bottom Line
Christina Aguilera previews her upcoming Bionic album with a burning club inspired track. This is what current dance-pop sounds like when a stellar voice grabs the reins. "Not Myself Tonight" is arguably one of the top uptempo performances of Christina Aguilera's career.
Pros
- Christina Aguilera's full-throated vocal delivery
- Liberating lyrics
- Polow da Don's fiery production
Cons
- The song itself is slight and rather simple
Description
- Written by Polow da Don and Ester Dean
- Produced by Polow da Don
- Released April 2010 by RCA Records
Guide Review - Christina Aguilera - "Not Myself Tonight"
With dance music ruling the pop landscape in a fashion we've not seen since the heyday of disco, it is no surprise that Christina Aguilera's new dance floor ready smash would vocally reference Donna Summer, the greatest voice of the disco era. At 1:45 on "Not Myself Tonight" she hits the notes that will bring the memories of disco balls flooding back. Making this comparison is a credit to "Not Myself Tonight" as it demonstrates what contemporary dance pop sounds like when tackled by one of the top voices in current pop music.
Lyrically, "Not Myself Tonight" is an ode to the powers of the communal rites of the dance club. Christina Aguilera sings of being "a little out of control" and "doing things that I normally won't do," but there is assurance that when the morning comes she will return to her everyday self. It puts "Not Myself Tonight" in a lengthening line of Christina Aguilera songs celebrating the beauty in taking risks and being oneself. Core fans drawn to that element in her music will celebrate the new song.
Polow da Don's production is based on fuzzed up synths giving way to strings on the break. The "1,2,3,4" shout echoes the opening of Polow da Don's triumph producing Chris Brown's "Forever". Polow da Don continues to prove he is one of the top pop producers in the business today.
If "Not Myself Tonight" is just a taster, Christina Aguilera is set to deliver a smash album when Bionic hits stores this summer. She claims the new collection will show her pushing her voice in new ways and responding to her life experiences with both electronic and organic music. For now, celebrate with Christina Aguilera the liberation of the dance floor on "Not Myself Tonight."
