The career of the Almelo Ilse DeLange got off to a flying start, but the much-discussed American record contract ultimately turned out to be little more than a scrap. Her debut album (1998) and the follow-up (2000) were extremely successful in the Netherlands but were not even released in America. With her third studio album Clean Up, DeLange takes the next step in her artistic growth, by co-writing
… the songs for the first time as a full partner. It is also noticeable that her style is increasingly moving away from the country & western and shifting more and more to pop and rock. Musically this album sounds heavier and more swinging than its predecessors, which is not surprising when you consider that she had the best studio musicians in Los Angeles at her disposal. In twelve songs, the singer writes off a difficult period with the necessary business and relationship problems. Because of the personal lyrics, she sounds more inspired than ever in her presentation. 'If you don't like it, you can kiss my ass!', the once lovely Ilse sings in the title track. The fans of the first hour will probably have to get used to the firm new musical direction, but with Clean Up Ilse DeLange makes it clear that from now on she chooses her own path. (MS)more
