With a powerful voice and an accessible 'girl next door' appearance, Kelly Clarkson was the ideal winner of the first edition of American Idol (2002). Several successful singles, including world hits Because Of You and Since U Been Gone, confirmed her star status, although the success declined over the years. After a greatest hits compilation (2012) and a Christmas album (2013), Clarkson has to
… compete with Piece By Piece against a new generation of stars such as Katy Perry, Ariana Grande and Taylor Swift. For this, the help of two well-known names who already believed that the singer has managed to reach the top of the charts: producer Greg Kurstin and songwriter Sia (Furler). Kurstin produced most of the album, while Sia co-wrote some songs, such as the very distinctive Invincible. Piece By Piece immediately sounds familiar, with Clarkson exchanging the earlier rock influences for a nice full electronic pop sound. Take You High even cautiously flirted with dubstep. Still, one of the best tracks is the understated Someone, written by Matthew Koma. The most important side note about Piece By Piece is that it lacks a sound of her own, but Clarkson still knows as an excellent pop singer. (IV) but Clarkson is still known as an excellent pop singer. (IV) but Clarkson is still known as an excellent pop singer. (IV)more
