Warner Brothers
2008
I Stand
About This Album
Idina Menzel is not known for being a pop artist. Rather, she is most classically known for originating two modern Broadway dream roles: the outspoken lesbian Maureen in the long-running Rent, and the misunderstood Elphaba in Wicked, a role that garnered Menzel a Tony award. Throughout her musical theater career, Menzel attempted to capitalize on her fame and go for pop stardom; her first swing at bat was a frazzled alternative album that couldn't find a proper fan base, the second attempt was a collection of Broadway cover songs, something that never materialized into success. Thus, twelve years after Menzel first graced the stage as Maureen, Menzel releases I Stand. In order to create the perfect pop album, she drafted Glen Ballard, the producer best known for his work on the 16-times platinum Alanis Morisette album Jagged Little Pill. Along with Ballard, Menzel co-wrote most of the lyrics and created a set of pop songs for her most mainstream release yet. Ultimately, the result is a mixed bag. Menzel's voice is staunchly characteristic; it doesn't necessarily format to the catchy synthetics of 2007, and the songs feel inconsistent. "Where Do I Begin?" is awkward at times, as Menzel's musical roots funnel through.
Track List (try tracks 1,4,6,8 and 10)

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