RCA
After publicly butting heads with mentor Clive Davis over creative control of her last album, the moody and gothic My December, “American Idol” winner Kelly Clarkson returns to her Davis-approved, spunky roots on All I Ever Wanted. “My Life Would Suck Without You” is a safe, pseudo-sequel to her 2004 hit “Since You Been Gone.” The R&B approximations are misguided at best and Clarkson dazzles when she lets her inner rocker-chick shine, particularly on the Joan Jett-esque pop-punk of Whyyawannabringmedown.” The album succeeds at what it sets out to do — revitalize Clarkson’s career. –todd williams
