"Love Songs": same old, same old

Honestly, “Love Songs” was a pointless release. Fans could have easily compiled these familiar and frankly forgettable songs into a playlist had they felt the need, but instead Destiny’s Child decided to release them as a “new” album. Michelle Williams and Kelly Rowland suddenly appeared from the depths of Beyonce’s long shadow to generate even more hype for the star’s highly anticipated Super Bowl performance. Hopefully Beyonce will leave these unremarkable songs off her set list.

Destiny’s Child works best when they are up-tempo, audacious and leaving their men at home. “Love Songs” assembles their slowest, sleepiest and most despairing numbers. These songs find the trio twiddling their thumbs waiting around for their men as in “Killing Time.” Or they are mindless slaves for their men with “Cater 2 U.” Sometimes they complain that if these men leave, no one else is left in the world for them, such as in “Emotion.” Anybody searching for this group’s standard girl-power anthem ought to look elsewhere.

This particular brand of R&B, the lethargic sort with an acoustic shimmer and sparkle, is not the group’s forte, but if you’re not one to worry about the lyrics, the album is overall, weak and disheartening.

What’s worse is they are generally delivered with thin, unimpressive vocals, which is atypical of three powerful singers with lovely, warm and distinct voices. Of course Michelle, Kelly and Beyonce still weave in and out of harmony expertly. With more energy, their synchronization is electric. But this album showcases Destiny’s Child at their dullest. Even with skilled harmonization, their vocals cannot save these unmemorable love songs.

The only new track on the album, “Nuclear,” will rattle no bones, following a familiar formula. “Say My Name,” the most recognizable number, becomes a butchered remix.

The very best song is probably “If,” the perfect vehicle for Michelle’s sweet voice and features the finest harmonies. “Brown Eyes” is another humm-able number.

That being said, we’ve heard all this before. It’s best to skip this album, cross our fingers and hope Destiny’s Child will deliver a real album sometime soon.