Annie Doesn't Stop

Annie's come a long way since her first single, "The Greatest Hit," in 1999. Having tapped into the dance mainstream with that Madonna sampling tune, she was well on her way when tragedy struck and her partner in music and life was taken due to a heart defect in 2001. Three years later, after recovering from her loss, Annie stormed the dancefloors around the world, once again, with her debut album, Anniemal. This blast of electro tinged pop was just what the doctor ordered mid-decade so much so that the album peaked the interest of Island Records who signed her. Of course in their wisdom, they dropped her after her single, I Know UR Girlfriend Hates Mewas released. Eventually obtaining her master tapes that were supposed to be album number two, Smalltown Supersound welcomed her with open arms and issued her sophomore album, Don't Stop.

My first impression of the record is that Don't Stop seems like the only appropriate title for this record. With all that Annie's been through and how much industry wrangling she's had to deal with, it only makes sense that her album be called that. In addition, it sort of makes sense that, that is the title because the record servers as a statement of intent and an approach to life. No mater how bad things have gotten, Annie hasn't stopped and it's truly amazing to see and hear her perseverance and dedication to her craft. The girl has got so much talent that it would almost be criminal to stop.

Despite the drama and tragedy that Annie has dealt with, she still manages to make stupendously good dance pop that hops around genres like the Easter Bunny. With electro, synthpop, pure pop, and even hip hop influencing the songs here, Don't Stop is totally geared towards getting your booty moving by any means necessary. It succeeds with beats that are gargantuan, songs that are funny, and lyrics that catchy. Don't Stop is batting a 1.000 from the get go and unlike Mark McGwire it's naturally a hit. Whether it's the seductive slam of, "I Don't Like Your Band," to the nearly pop trance of, "Songs Remind Me Of You," or the absolutely hilarious, "The Breakfast Song," Don't Stop never does and it's literally like one hit right after another for the entire 45 minute course of this album.

I'm glad Annie hasn't stopped. From carrying on to picking up the pieces of a label playing games with her Annie has had the patience and talent to realize that everything works out in the end. Don't Stop is the result of that insight and it's the sort of record that's reaffirming and fun all at the same time. Annie has made a statement with this record that really should apply to everyone...no matter what your dreams are, Don't Stop chasing them.