Miley Cyrus' "We Can't Stop" - Single Review

 

   Disney princess, and occasional recreational drug user, Miley Cyrus has not been in the headlines much for her music recently as compared to her on again/off again relationship with Liam Hemsworth and new short, blonde look, but the recording industry was at a standstill yesterday as the former Hannah Montana actress debuted the lead single off her upcoming album, rumored for a 2013 release. "We Can't Stop", a R&B/pop fusion describing the carefree way to spend one's night or summer is a vast departure from the material found on her previous efforts, but still carries the dance essence we have come to expect from the young artist. As we watch the former TV starlet grow up, we are also witnessing the maturity in her vocals and song choice. Already sitting at the top of the iTunes chart, Cyrus' new single could be her comeback after a somewhat disappointing previous album attempt.

     "We Can't Stop" does sound somewhat similar to a few songs currently on the charts and those that have previously hit number one during the summer, with lyrics speaking of the desire to have a good time and putting one's hand in the air like their don't care, but hearing them from Miss Cyrus is both surprising and impressive. The artist is not singing in front of loud, EDM production, instead going for a chill, laid back vibe, which may be the true highlight of the new single. "We like to party, dancing with Molly, doing whatever we want", Cyrus sings on a chorus that will surely be a contender for the most quoted line of the summer. No longer a Disney star, a change is apparent and expanding the singer's comfort zone in the process.

     The new single may have been hard to take in with the initial listen, I wanted to hear "Can't Be Tamed" and "Who Owns My Heart"'s spiritual sequel, but with the second and third go around, the appreciation for the final product quickly surfaced and became clear. While taking a break from her recording career, Miley has been crafting a new sound and image for herself that a different kind of audience will support. The "no worry in the world/party till the sun comes up" message seems to be the passage point into adulthood for many child stars and it's nice to see Cyrus attempt the material and succeed. "We Can't Stop" is not crazy and bloated, it's not a full fledged rap attempt, it's a smoother creation from the uptempo pop singer. Excited to hear what's next for this good girl gone bad.

A-