UKmix (1) / ***** stars

After an emotional breakdown and a flop of a movie, Mariah is back stronger
than ever with this offering.

Moving from Sony to Universal via Virgin hasn't effected Mariah Carey in
any big way, at least that's the impression you get as a listener.
Her sound has changed slightly, as Mariah is into new styles, which reflects
in the upbeat tracks such as Boy (I Need You)", "You Got Me",
"Irresistible" and "Subtle Invitation".

However Carey also goes back to her roots with her big trademark ballads,
such as "Through The Rain", "I Only Wanted", "My Saving Grace" and the
remake of Def Leppard's "Brining On The Heartbreak", which all showcase
her outstanding voice.

Mariah Carey is an artist that sold 185 million albums worldwide and this
album is another reminder why. Highly recommended.

(Karl Gambin)



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UKmix (2) / **** stars

"Charmbracelet" is very different from any other album by Mariah Carey.
It is a big improvement since the "Glitter" fiasco, that's for sure,
but is that enough to get back that credibility and respect she once had?

Firstly, the uptempos never fail to get you moving. "Charmbracelet" has
fewer appearances by rappers than "Glitter" did, instead it shows
off the hip-hop tinged R&B sound that Mariah made popular and does it like
no other. For instance, "Boy (I Need You)", covering Cam'ron's 2002 hit
and featuring the rapper himself, is a great song for when you're in the
clubs. "Irresitible" is a song perfectly described by the title itself,
 try resisting it!

There are, of course, some obligatory ballads too. Mariah uses her whispery
voice in many of them, mixing it with the powerful sound of her
full voice. "Through The Rain", the Top 10 comeback single, is just
remarkable. So is "Yours", but her rendition of "Bringin' On The Heartbreak",
 originally recorded by Def Leppard, is the true star here.?My Saving Grace",
 being a mix of gospel, R&B and pop, delivers plenty of emotion too.

Mariah Carey is back as we loved her in 1996 and before, using her voice
again, although the soft, whispery sound is still there.
"Charmbracelet" by far exceeded my expectations, which were extremely
high in the first place. Congratulations on a very powerful comeback,
Miss Carey!

(Brandon Phillips)